From Linden to Lock Haven: 1962 Piper Apache Now on Display Thanks To Generous Donation

By Emily Wright

LOCK HAVEN—The Piper Aviation Museum has once again enriched its impressive collection with the recent addition of a historic aircraft. Lonnie Lawson of Linden, PA, recently donated his 1962 Piper Apache to the museum, marking a significant expansion of the museum’s exhibit and providing aviation enthusiasts with a closer look at a pivotal piece of Piper’s history.

The 1962 Piper Apache holds a special place in the hearts of many aviation enthusiasts, being Piper Aircraft’s first all-metal and twin-engine model, which first took to the skies in 1954. The Apache is credited with ushering Piper into the modern aviation era, a testament to innovation and engineering prowess.

“Lonnie’s Apache, although in beautiful condition, had not flown for several years and needed a complete inspection before it could be flown back to Lock Haven,” said Piper Aviation Museum President Ron Dremel. Licensed aircraft mechanics Frank Swinehart and John Spencer stepped in and donated numerous hours of their time to meticulously inspect and repair the aircraft to ensure that the Apache was up to standards for its journey to Lock Haven.

On a Tuesday afternoon in June with perfect weather conditions, John Spencer piloted the Apache on its final flight to the museum. Upon arrival, Spencer reported that the plane flew perfectly during the trip, underscoring the success of the meticulous efforts he and Swinehart put into the repair work and inspection. 

Now proudly displayed in the first-floor hangar of the Piper Aviation Museum, the Apache joins a storied collection that celebrates Piper Aircraft’s rich legacy and contributions to aviation. Visitors can marvel at this historic aircraft, which played a crucial role in transforming Piper from a lightweight, single-engine producer to a manufacturer of robust, twin-engine planes.

The Piper Aviation Museum, located at 1 Piper Way in Lock Haven, invites aviation aficionados and curious visitors alike to explore its exhibits. Operating hours are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, and 12 noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday. The museum will extend its hours until 6 p.m. during the week of the Sentimental Journey Fly-In, set to begin on Tuesday, June 18, and continue through the week until the visiting pilots depart on Sunday, June 23, 2024. The museum will be open on Tuesday of that special week.

For more information, visit the museum, and don’t forget to check out the latest piece of aviation history, the 1962 Piper Apache, that’s been added thanks to Lonnie Lawson’s generous donation. 

Learn more about the Piper Aviation Museum by visiting them online: www.pipermuseum.com/