Thomas-Morse Aircraft Corporation, Ithaca, N.Y. logo as appeared in the October 21, 1918 issue of "Aerial Age Weekly."

This exquisite model of the Thomas-Morse S4c was created by master craftsman Don Gentry and its generous donation by Don has been accepted by the National Museum of the Air Force in Dayton; it will be displayed in the Early Flight Gallery on a permanent basis.

The original S4c was built in Ithaca N.Y. (1916-1917) as an advanced trainer for American pilots. It was also used as a forward scout for England's R.A.F. A thorough documentation of the Scout may be found at the 3 Sea Bees website by clicking here.

This model of the S4c is scratch built in 1:5 scale, done in plan form, exposed frame manner, so all construction details are visible. The model was constructed over a 6 year period with over 7000 labor hours invested.

The model was built from drawings by Jim Kiger (Replicraft) of Fremont Ca. (taken from original factory drawings and original aircraft). For those not familiar with Jim's drawings, many full scale flying aircraft are built from his work. He is recognized as a Master Draftsman and authority on his subjects. You can visit his website by clicking here. The model follows the drawings faithfully with all details present and accounted for as evidenced by the photographs.

The model is constructed from traditional, and time tested materials consisting of Box wood, a small amount of willow, brass, aluminum, and steel. Requiring the mastery of both wood and metal processes, this model is entirely scratch built by the builder (with exception of nuts, bolts, and wire). From the engine, (static) scratch built from steel and original factory drawings, to the scratch built and hand laced wire wheels and tires to the cockpit instruments with separate needles, topped off with .008 real glass, (hand ground to proper diameter size), and aluminum bezels. Control functions all operate from the cockpit. In brief, everything that's on the real aircraft is represented on this model. A true scale replica. It is large in size, with a wing span of 63 5/8 in. and O.A.L. of 46 3/16 in.

Enjoy the photos of the model and, if you have a chance, visit it at the AF Museum.

The photo below is the Thomas Morse Scout S4C as exhibited in the National Museum of the Air Force. The Tommy on display was donated to the museum in March 1965 by Capt. R.W. Duff, Miami, Fla., and restored by Aero Mechanics High School, Detroit, Mich. A CollectAir photo. Now it will be joined by Don Gentry's magnificent model.

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Information may be obtained by contacting CollectAir through theFeedback Link at left, top margin, or calling cell (408) 828-2810 (preferred) or email collectair@verizon.net. CollectAir, 1324 De La Vina St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101.