The Kelch Aviation Museum’s grand opening on July 23rd, 2021 seems like yesterday – five years FLEW by! (Pun intended). We are incredibly grateful to be celebrating half a decade of sharing aviation history with our community. What began as a dream has grown into a thriving museum thanks to the support of visitors, volunteers, members – and donors like you!
And this summer, we are raising $75,000 to fund Phase 4 of the Kelch Aviation Museum facility in Brodhead, WI: A new restoration and maintenance hangar. Although this was not part of the museum’s original long range plan, we presently have a unique opportunity to expand our aircraft and auto maintenance capabilities, and allow the public to observe in a safe and educational manner. Details on the construction will be announced and updated all summer.
Our Curtiss-Wright Travel Air 12W, “The Chicken Coop Biplane,” will be mascot of this new campaign. This gorgeous blue-and-yellow biplane was one of founder Al Kelch’s early restoration projects, and a fitting symbol of perseverance and transformation: After crashing into a Minnesota chicken coop in the 1950s, the aircraft sat untouched for nearly 30 years before being rescued and painstakingly restored by Al. Today, it stands as a reminder that with vision, dedication, and community support, the sky is the limit!
As a special thank-you, donors who contribute $100 or more to our Summer Campaign will receive a limited edition Kelch Aviation Museum 5th Anniversary water bottle!
Every donation helps us preserve aviation history, expand our educational programs, and continue building for the future. We are honored to serve as your aviation museum, and grateful for your support as we take the next step in our journey.
Can you donate today, and help us reach our $75,000 goal by August 31st? CLICK HERE TO DONATE NOW
