Photo 20-PLO-27

Comments

The Oberlin Airport, home of Coates Flying Service. In the front was the Skyway Restaurant in 1947 and 1948, I can't find any mention of it after that. On the south side of SR 511 between Vermilion and Gifford roads, Oberlin.

The old restaurant building and the square hangar are still there. The airport was sold in 1990 and does not seems to have operated after that. The long gravel drive that used to be the runway is still there although some trees are fairly close.

Hello, yes I grew up there, my parents were Jack and Margie Coates. The airport was originally built by the Sharp family from Kipton. Jack and Margie purchased the airport in 1953 or 1954 after selling old Elyria airport on Infirmary Rd. I believe the open front hanger at the rear left of the photo still exists and if you look from the inside you can still see the Elyria Airport signage. This picture is probably from the 1975 -1982 time period as the pea gravel pit (sky diving) is present along with the elevator used by the crop dusters.

Hi Rich Coates, if you get back here, contact me by email. I have some of your family's letters to give to you.

dt0090765 (at) gmail dot com

Howdy Rich, its been a long time. Both my Dad & Mom learned to fly with your Dad in the Aeronca Champs there. I remember the motorcycle and Folbot kayak projects on the tables usually present in the front room. Your dad even sponsored my soapbox derby car in 1971. I really loved the times my Dad took me up for a ride, including once on skis! The flying bug has bitten me as well, and I have been flying and instructing since 1985. Thanks for the blast from the past!

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Do you have a connection to this photograph? Maybe you grew up here or know someone who did? What has changed in the 46 years since this photo was taken? Tell us!