Homey and friendly aren't what we expected to associate with an aerodrome but there was definitely an easy-going feeling to the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome.

It may be different on days when the air shows are going and the informal parking lot is crowded, but on the day we visited it looked like someone had taken over an old field, put up some benches and then filled several hangers with their beloved collection of antique airplanes, and then opened the whole thing up to the public. In fact, that's pretty much how it started. Over 40 years ago Cole Palen started collecting and restoring (and flying) antique aircraft. In the process he preserved early aviation history and the Aerodrome is part of his legacy.

The antique airplanes (or aeroplanes) are in different stages of repair and renovation as are the old cars (or automobiles) and motorcycles. There was even a couple of mechanics working when we visited. The aircraft are from the Pioneer era, World War I, and the Lindbergh/barnstorming era from the beginnings of flight in 1900 to 1940. Surprisingly few of the planes are actual warplanes. There are pleasure aircraft (even one that was a rich man's gift to his wife in the early 1900s!), those that delivered mail, and those that were flown for the sheer joy of flying. Not all the planes are the originals. Some are faithful reproductions powered by the original engines.

Although the airplanes, cars etc. are wonderful, and worth a trip, most people go for the air shows, to recapture the sense of excitement that was original to the barnstorming era. Still others take advantage of the barnstorming rides over the lovely Hudson Valley in a classic 1929 New Standard open-cockpit biplane. Passengers are flown over the Hudson River and back at a cost of $65.00 per person.

For 2009, the Aerodrome opens June 13 through October 18, 2009. The big news is that it begins its 50th Air Show season on Saturday, June 13th. The gates open at 10am and the Air Shows are held at 2pm every Saturday and Sunday, weather permitting. The Museum is open everyday from 10am until 5pm, from June 6th through October 18th, 2009.

The Aerodrome also holds special events such as the antique machinery/vintage motorcycle and vintage tractor day and the British car club festival.

The Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome tries to recaptures the thrill and excitement of old-time flying. It does, but it also recaptures the informality of the experience. Especially appreciated in days of asphalt and mega-airports.

For More Information www.oldrhinebeck.org lists all the planes, a few with their specifications and photos. Their old automobiles and motorcycles are also listed, as well as all the information on hours and days of operation, shows, dates, events etc.