A newly restored homebuilt aircraft, modeled after the 1933 Henderson Longster, now adorns the entrance of the Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport in Minnesota. This significant addition, completed by the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Chapter 1610 Brainerd, was unveiled on November 4, 2025. The aircraft highlights both the rich history of aviation and the dedication of local enthusiasts.
The story of this unique plane begins with Paul Noskowiak, a member of the EAA. A few years ago, he discovered the remnants of the Henderson Longster, which had been donated to the Stearns County Pioneer Club after languishing in a barn for nearly a decade. Initially deterred by its collection of mismatched components, including parts from a Volkswagen and a lawnmower, Noskowiak’s curiosity led him to research its origins. He learned that the aircraft was a Henderson Longster, a one-passenger monoplane introduced in 1931.
During the early 1930s, aviation was experiencing what many consider the golden age of flight, characterized by innovation and experimentation. Mike Bearss, treasurer of the Brainerd EAA chapter, notes that pioneers like Leslie Long, after whom the Henderson Longster is named, played a crucial role in shaping what we now recognize as experimental aviation. The Henderson Longster, in particular, is credited with influencing the development of similar aircraft during that transformative era.
The restoration of the Henderson Longster was a labor of love for the EAA chapter. Over several years, local businesses, including SIGNSpot and Crosslake Sheet Metal Heating and Air Conditioning, contributed to the project by providing decals and wheel covers. The completed aircraft now hangs proudly at the airport, showcasing both craftsmanship and community effort.
Seated in the pilot’s cockpit is a mannequin, named Edna G, modeled after Edna Gardner Whyte, a notable Minnesota aviator. Whyte earned her pilot’s license in 1931 and went on to compete in over 100 air races, as well as train numerous military pilots during World War II. Recognized for her contributions, she is commemorated in the Minnesota Aviation Hall of Fame. Bearss explains, “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 may lack direct ties to Minnesota, its restoration and display at the Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport serve as a testament to the spirit of the EAA and the community’s passion for aviation. The project not only celebrates the legacy of early aviation but also inspires future generations of aviation enthusiasts.
