A remarkable piece of aviation history now graces the entrance of the Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport in Minnesota. On November 4, 2025, a homebuilt aircraft modeled after the 1933 Henderson Longster was officially installed, thanks to the dedication of members from the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Chapter 1610 in Brainerd.
The journey of this unique aircraft began several years ago when EAA member Paul Noskowiak discovered its incomplete structure. Originally donated to the Stearns County Pioneer Club, the plane had been languishing in a barn for nearly a decade. Despite its unconventional composition, which included parts from a Volkswagen, a boat, and even lawnmower wheels, Noskowiak’s fascination with aviation led him to investigate further. He later identified the aircraft as a Henderson Longster, a one-passenger monoplane introduced in 1931.
Reviving a Classic Aircraft
The Henderson Longster is noteworthy not only for its design but also for its historical significance. Named after Leslie Long, a prominent figure in early aviation, this aircraft symbolizes a period known as the golden age of aviation. According to Mike Bearss, treasurer of the Brainerd EAA chapter, this era was marked by creativity and experimentation in aircraft construction.
Bearss explained, “It was this plane — the Henderson Longster — that some people say really set the pace to establish what is called experimental aircraft.” Builders of the time often relied on readily available materials, sharing their designs and experiences through aviation magazines, which further fueled the growth of homebuilt aircraft.
Over the years, the EAA Chapter 1610 dedicated significant effort to restore the Henderson Longster. Local businesses, including SIGNSpot and Crosslake Sheet Metal Heating and Air Conditioning, contributed by providing decals and wheel covers, further enhancing the aircraft’s authenticity.
Honoring a Minnesota Aviation Pioneer
At the cockpit of the restored aircraft sits a mannequin, named Edna G, in homage to Edna Gardner Whyte, a trailblazing aviator from Minnesota. Whyte obtained her pilot’s license in 1931 and participated in over 100 air races. She also played a crucial role in training military pilots during World War II and is honored in the Minnesota Aviation Hall of Fame.
Bearss remarked, “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 does not have direct ties to Minnesota, it embodies the spirit of aviation innovation that figures like Whyte represent.
The installation of the Henderson Longster at the Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport not only serves as a tribute to early aviation pioneers but also highlights the ongoing passion for aviation within the local community. The collaborative effort behind the restoration showcases the commitment of enthusiasts to preserve and celebrate the rich history of flight.
