A newly restored homebuilt aircraft, a replica of the 1933 Henderson Longster, was officially unveiled at the Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport on November 4, 2025. This significant addition was completed by the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Chapter 1610, marking a celebration of both aviation history and community collaboration.
The story of this aircraft began several years ago when EAA member Paul Noskowiak discovered its remnants. The plane had been donated to the Stearns County Pioneer Club by a previous owner who had kept it in a barn for about a decade. Initially, Noskowiak hesitated to pursue the project due to its assembly from mismatched parts, including components from a Volkswagen and lawnmower wheels. His curiosity was piqued when he identified the plane as a Henderson Longster after sharing photos online.
Introduced in 1931, the Henderson Longster was a significant model in the early days of aviation, designed for a single passenger. It was named after Leslie Long, a prominent figure in aviation during the 1930s. Mike Bearss, the treasurer of the Brainerd EAA chapter, described this period as the “golden age of aviation,” characterized by innovation and experimentation. He highlighted the Henderson Longster’s role in shaping what we now recognize as experimental aircraft.
“A lot of aviation enthusiasts at the time utilized whatever materials they could find to construct their planes, publishing their designs in magazines,” Bearss remarked. The historical significance of the Henderson Longster cannot be understated; it represents a time when aviation design was open to creativity and ingenuity.
The restored Henderson Longster now proudly hangs in the airport’s front entrance, a symbol of collaboration and community effort. Local businesses, including SIGNSpot and Crosslake Sheet Metal Heating and Air Conditioning, contributed to the project by providing essential components such as decals and wheel covers.
In an homage to Minnesota’s aviation history, a mannequin dressed as a pilot sits in the cockpit, named Edna G. This name honors Edna Gardner Whyte, a notable Minnesota aviator who earned her pilot’s license in 1931 and participated in over 100 air races. She also played a crucial role in training military pilots during World War II and is celebrated in the Minnesota Aviation Hall of Fame.
Bearss noted, “Since she’s in the aviation hall of fame and she’s from Minnesota, we thought Edna G would be a good name for her.” While the Henderson Longster itself does not have a direct connection to Minnesota, it embodies the spirit of the EAA and the rich history of aviation in the region.
The installation of this aircraft not only serves as a tribute to early aviation pioneers but also encourages future generations to explore the world of flight. The Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport now has a captivating centerpiece that showcases the creativity and dedication of local aviation enthusiasts.
