Deland Naval Air Station Museum in Daytona Beach, FL

Located just a short drive from Daytona Beach, the DeLand Naval Air Station Museum in the town of DeLand is one of the top attractions in the Daytona area. DeLand was originally home to a small local airport, which opened in 1920, but really blossomed when the U.S. Navy arrived in 1941, establishing a naval base a year later in the midst of the turmoil of World War II. Though the Naval Air Station closed just four years later, the city of DeLand wished to commemorate its presence and established a museum there to honor the U.S. Navy and the work that had occurred at the station. The museum opened in 1992 on the 50^th anniversary of the founding of the base.

Today, it attracts thousands of visitors each year, especially those who are avid military buffs and are interested in the history of aviation. Suitable for all ages, this attraction is located in the original Chief Master of Arms Building at the base, which – after restoration – was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2001. It is the mission of the museum to promote the study of U.S. naval history, preserve and exhibit artifacts from all U.S. wars, and to further military historical research.

Though it’s a small museum, visitors to the DeLand Naval Air Station complex are treated to a number of very interesting exhibits. The museum pays tribute to the two-seater Dauntless Dive Bomber which experts say was integral to the success of the air corps during World War II. In that same vein, guests can view a vintage TBF Avenger Torpedo Bomber, which sits in the backyard of the museum building. Each Wednesday and Saturday morning, museum volunteers gather to continue to restore this historic airplane. New volunteers are always welcome.

Also available for viewing is a MASH helicopter from the Korean War era and a 1941 Buick convertible, indicative of the automobiles popular during the early years of the Second World War. A 1954 Army Jeep is also housed in the onsite hangar as well as a number of other military artifacts, photographs from the years the base was open, other military photos, and a variety of additional memorabilia. One room is dedicated solely to artifacts and other items from World War I and the museum continues to expand as it receives more donations.

The DeLand Naval Air Station Museum offers a number of annual or occasional special events that are open to the general public. These include a Veteran’s Day Parade, Airfleet Weekends, firearms safety courses, hangar dances, special video viewings, regular open houses, and much more. Special hands-on children’s programs are also offered on occasion and the museum’s Echo Rangers is a regular program designed for kids age 7 to 11 who like to hang out at the attraction.

The museum is open from Tuesday through Saturday. Hours are generally limited to about five hours a day, so it is best to call ahead before making the trip.

Useful Links:

http://www.delandnavalairstation.org/

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