ATCHISON, Kansas — Officials with The Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum report that work has begun on the exhibits surrounding “Muriel,” the world’s last remaining Lockheed Electra 10-E aircraft, which will be the centerpiece of the new museum.
Named after Earhart’s younger sister, Grace Muriel Earhart Morrissey, Muriel is identical to the plane Earhart flew on her final flight around the world. Surrounding Muriel will be 13 exhibits to take visitors on a journey through Earhart’s life, from growing up in Atchison to the height of her worldwide fame.
Located at the Amelia Earhart Memorial Airport (K59), the new museum will blend STEM education and historical storytelling to honor Earhart’s legacy while inspiring the next generation of aviation and aerospace pioneers in the pursuit of flight, according to museum officials.
“Our vision to celebrate Amelia Earhart’s world-renowned legacy to defy the odds and pursue her dreams is coming to life,” said Karen Seaberg, founder and president of the Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum. “We’re grateful for the generous support we continue to receive as we build this state-of-the-art museum in Amelia’s hometown in Atchison, Kansas, where her dreams began and will continue to encourage future generations to imagine their own possibilities.”
The museum’s capital campaign, which has raised more than $10 million, has recently gotten boosts from FedEx, Garmin, and Lockheed Martin, among others, according to museum officials. Total project costs are estimated at $15 million, including the recently completed construction of the 17,000-square-foot hangar and terminal reminiscent of the Art Deco style of the 1920s and 1930s at the Amelia Earhart Memorial Airport, along with the purchase of Muriel.
Meanwhile, the Kansas-based experience design firm Dimensional Innovations (DI) has been tasked with building and installing the exhibits at the new museum.
“We’re thrilled to work alongside the Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum to help tell the incredible story of Amelia and her impact on aviation,” said Tucker Trotter, CEO, Dimensional Innovations. “Each experience will immerse museum-goers by exemplifying Amelia’s adventurous spirit and showcasing the many generations she positively influenced.”
For more information: AmeliaEarhartHangarMuseum.org.