The Military Aviation Preservation Society located in North Canton, Ohio is a voluneer, non-profit organization dedicated to educating people about the history of Military Aviation. On display are aircraft from the early years of flight to the supersonic aircraft of the modern era. There are displays of aircraft equipment, ordance, engines, and the Gallery of Heros which houses artifacts and collections from the people who flew the aircraft.

MAPS is located in an aircraft hangar, with additional static displays of aircraft on the tarmac outside. My first impression upon entering is the atmospere of a fun and friendly place, starting with the greetings in the parking lot by some of the restoration workers on break to the friendly knowledgeable tour guides on hand to answer any questions. There is also the element of hands on involvement as there are many displays that you are allowed to interact with from hand cranking a Bofors 40mm Anti-aircraft gun to sitting in the seat of a Mig 17, the gondola of a Goodyear blimp, or climbing into a Kiowa helicopter to name a few. Kids and some adults (like me) really enjoy walking around and standing up close to the aircraft on display on the tarmac. The highlight of my trip was the opportunity to take a look inside the C-47 Skytrain and sit in the pilots seat. I will mention that the aircraft on static display outside are weathered to various degrees, and some are works in progress.

Website of Interest:

MAPS Air Museum