Hobbies

This page is dedicated to the hobbies and interests enjoyed by neighbors as well as those here on our own farm.

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On many summer evenings, hot air balloon launches were an exciting and colorful part of the aviation experiences here on the farm. In this photo four balloons are ready for a group takeoff into light winds with excellent visibility- near perfect conditions for safe, enjoyable ballooning.

A local airport often has public events at which they are able to display relics such as this beautiful B-17 of WWII fame.  This particular aircraft was named "Aluminum Overcast", and graced us with a flyover at the farm some months ago. What a treat! Imagine seeing hundreds of these magnificent machines in formation!

Who can not appreciate the early days of the automobile? This classic, a Model T Ford pickup, sits waiting on repairs and a good cleanup after several years spent in a Central Ohio barn with plenty of birds.

According to the story, this little truck was used on a farm until its eventual retirement many decades later . . . a testament to the rugged and well-designed quality of the early Ford autos.

It's worth noting that Ford didn't actually make pickup trucks at the start of the Model T run. Instead, Henry offered bare chasis, with the running gear, hood, controls and seats. The beds were built by "after market" companies or, as often was the case, by the owners themselves.

Additionally, Model T's were also used as Depot Hacks, Huckster Wagons, (produce sellers) and in some cases conversions for farm work as tractors. The little 20-horsepower engine was geared low to work hard.

Fortunately, there is a fair amount of interest in older cars in the area where we live. Several very nice examples of the early models are stored in good facilities that allow quality restorations to remain in new looking condition for years after the work was originally performed. This Model A Ford, (right),  is a good example of the results when an expert restoration is performed; an award winning prized example of early motor cars in America.

Likewise, this pair of later model high quality restorations include a 1948 Super Deluxe convertible and a fine looking 1936 4-door. Both are excellent examples of the results when professional restorations are performed with little expense spared.

Several years ago we aquired a 1927 Ford Model T "Tudor" from an elderly man in Northeast Ohio, who, along with his wife, were moving into assisted living, and would have no place to keep the old car.

This was the last year for the Model T, which was replaced in 1928 by the Model A, a much refined version of the iconic T. There are hundreds of interesting stories about the early Fords and about Henry Ford himself.

The Model T was built from 1908 to 1927, and held the record for the most cars produced until the 1950's when the Volkswagen came to America.

Although simplicty of design is evident throughout the "T", driving it was a very complicated task, and requires some considerable adjustment to anyone attempting it for the first time.