EL RENO, Oklahoma — It’s a clear Friday morning as the buzz of radial engines fills the air around Mustang Field at the El Reno Airport (KRQO).
Among the hustle and bustle of workers putting the finishing touches on the Caldwell Collection’s latest exhibit, founder Tony Caldwell was hosting a handful of discovery flights in a few of the vintage planes from his collection.
“I’m excited to be able to share my love of vintage aircraft with Canadian County and all of Oklahoma,” said Caldwell. “It’s a privilege to restore these beautiful planes. Every one has a unique history and special place in the collection.”
The Caldwell Collection, which opened to the public Oct. 4, 2025, totals more than 20 classic aircraft, including several from Caldwell’s own assortment and others on loan from various private collections.
Notable among Caldwell’s aircraft are several Waco biplanes. Built during a time commonly known as the “Golden Age of Aviation,” the Waco led the industry in registered aircraft, making it the best-selling civilian biplane in the U.S. at the time.
Another standout in the collection is a Stearman PT-17 on loan from Waldo Wright’s Flying Service out of Florida.
The 1942 trainer is piloted by its owner, Waldo “Rob” Wright, who also runs the on-site Waldo Wright Restoration Shop. The shop serves as both a workspace and a living exhibit, allowing visitors the chance to watch the antique revitalization process firsthand.
The collection, along with the restoration shop, a café, and a small library, is housed within a 30,000-square-foot, fully restored 1943 World War II hangar at El Reno Regional Airport.
For more information: TheCaldwellCollection.org
The grand opening was a wonderful event. Thank you, Tony, for a great party, being part of the resurrection of El Reno, and for sharing your collection with the public.