DeLand NAS Museum — a perfect small gem
Grumman F-14 Tomcat — photo by Joe May
The DeLand Naval Air Station Museum is so small it might be called petite. Befitting its small stature the hours of operation are not extensive. But there is that old adage — “It’s not the size of the dog in the fight that matters, it’s the size of the fight in the dog.” — this certainly applies to this museum in the quiet Florida town of DeLand.
Grumman TBM Avenger — photo by Joe May
Grumman TBM Avenger — photo by Joe May
Grumman TBM Avenger — photo by Joe May
The visit was a success, though, since I was able to see two aircraft exhibited outside on the museum grounds, both made by Grumman — a new looking F-14 Tomcat and a TBM Avenger that is soon to be restored. There were other artifacts there, as well, such as ship lights and anchors which whet the appetite for what must lie inside the historic building (it has been placed on the National Register). A knowledgable man was there for the museum and he was informative as well as engaging. He certainly knew his history. There are many artifacts such as tools, photographs and models.
DeLand NAS Museum — photo by Joe May
The museum is located at DeLand Municipal Airport which services general aviation aircraft. Nearby commercial airports are Daytona Beach International Airport, Orlando International and Orlando Sanford International Airport. There is a small diner just a few blocks away and downtown DeLand has many interesting eateries.
