I have no idea what made me think of this place today. I haven’t been there in a dozen years or more. But today’s installment of “dwex’s world of irrelevent aviation stories” is about Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome in Rhinebeck, New York (about half way between NYC and Albany). They have a large collection of historic, restored, golden-era airplanes, most in flying condition. They have weekend airshows with recreations of World War I dogfights, complete with costumes and all sorts of fun. You can buy a ride in a classic 2-seater biplane. In their words:

The Saturday Shows chronicle the History of Flight with Pioneer, World War I and Lindbergh era aircraft taking to the skies. If the winds are calm you’ll even see our 1909 Bleriot (the oldest flying aircraft in the United States) take to the air.

Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome

The Sunday Shows feature a World War I dogfight plus Barnstorming Aircraft. Marvel at world-renowned pilot, Stan Segalla, The Flying Farmer, one of the greatest acts on the air show circuit! You won’t believe what Stan can make an airplane do! We promise this is an act you will never forget! - For Admission Rates click here.

Pre-show activity includes a vintage fashion show with audience participation, an old-time automobile parade and early aviation engine run-ups. You can experience the thrill of early aviation yourself with rides in our open-cockpit 1929 New Standard biplane and one of our wonderful old antique automobiles.

Barnstorming flights over the scenic Hudson Valley are available before and after the shows. Biplane rides are $65.00/person - Rides take you over the beautiful Hudson River, the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge and back again. Flights are of course, ” weather permitting” and the decision to fly is always left to the discretion of the pilot. Flights book quickly on a ” first-come/ first-serve” basis, so sign up early!

If you’re ever in the area, check them out. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon.

Update: “I have no idea what made me think of this place today”, I said… I just submitted this to Digg, and came across this news post from today:

Riverhead High School art teacher Vincent Nasta was killed in a plane crash Sunday afternoon during an air show at the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome in upstate New York.

I swear I hadn’t read or heard about this. Welcome to the Twilight Zone!