Uncovering the Aviation History of Auburn Automobile Co. and Cord Corp.

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 Intriguingly, airplanes have a surprising connection to the illustrious history of the Auburn Automobile Co. and the Cord Corp.


E.L. Cord, a man of diverse interests, had a keen fascination with aviation among his many pursuits.


The quest to bring an airplane of local significance back to Auburn was set in motion through a casual breakfast conversation. Phil Allison, a devoted supporter of the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum, and Eric Rieke from the Rieke Corp. embarked on this mission.


Finally, on Monday, the Stinson Jr. with tail number NC10865 made its long-awaited return to the museum showroom after a staggering 90 years.


ACD Museum's executive director and CEO, Brandon Anderson, expressed his amazement, stating, "It's absolutely incredible."


He went on to share the historical significance of the moment, explaining, "When this building was completed in 1930, the Auburn Automobile Co. released a newsletter called 'The Accelerator,' which still serves as the name of our museum newsletter."


Anderson added, "One issue of the newsletter was solely dedicated to the opening of this building as the new international headquarters. In one of the photos, we can see a Stinson aircraft occupying the exact same corner of the showroom."


He continued, shedding light on the broader context, "Delving deeper into the overall story of the Cord Corp. and what existed here in 1930, we realize that the Stinson played a crucial role. Cord showcased Auburn automobiles, Cord automobiles, Duesenbergs, Stinsons, Dodge Boats, Lycoming cutaway engines—this showroom was a magnificent display for the company and the Cord Corp."


The return of the original plane, after passing through the hands of 18 different owners, is an extraordinary feat. Anderson remarked, "To locate and bring back home the plane that was once owned by the company is something unheard of."


Phil Allison, a devoted supporter of the museum, expressed his admiration for the engineering marvels of the 1920s and 1930s. "Whether it's aviation, buildings, or bridges, the engineering from that era is simply phenomenal. What those individuals achieved with pencil, paper, and a slide rule is unparalleled. Today's engineers couldn't hold a candle to them."


Allison humorously recalled his first encounter with Brandon, saying, "That's when Brandon and I first got to know each other. He didn't have to say it. I knew he thought I was an idiot," as they unpacked numerous boxes containing airplane parts and components.


Moreover, Allison highlighted Cord's vision, stating, "Cord wasn't solely in the automobile business; he was in the transportation business. He built rail cars, he built ships."


The fascinating aviation history intertwined with the Auburn Automobile Co. and Cord Corp. speaks to the rich legacy and diverse endeavors of these iconic entities. The return of the Stinson Jr. airplane serves as a testament to their enduring impact on both the automotive and aviation industries.

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