North Carolina Aviation Museum

Set on the field at Asheboro Regional Airport, the North Carolina Aviation Museum and Hall of Fame grew from a focused preservation effort into one of the state’s notable centers for aviation heritage. Founded in 1994 by businessman and warbird owner Jim Peddycord as the Foundation for Aircraft Conservation, the institution reflects the mentality of a working hangar more than a static gallery. Aircraft here are typically maintained in flight-worthy condition, a demanding standard that appeals to those interested in engineering integrity and airframe longevity. The collection has included military trainers such as the Stearman PT-13 Kaydet and Beechcraft T-34 Mentor, along with liaison and observation types like the Cessna L-19 Bird Dog, all interpreted in the context of their operational roles. Restoration projects, many supported by volunteers, underscore the practical realities of conserving aging structures of wood, fabric, and aluminum. As the official North Carolina Aviation Hall of Fame, the museum also anchors individual stories—pilots, mechanics, and organizers—within the broader arc of aviation and military history in the region.