More than a plane museum, it's truly one of a kind (7 photos)

Sault Ste. Marie’s Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre (CBHC, or the Bushplane Museum as it is commonly and affectionately known) is the only museum dedicated to preserving the history of bushplanes and forest fire management in North America.

It tells the story of Canada’s bushplane heritage, and how bushplane services for passengers back in the day became the origin of Canada’s modern civil aviation industry.

More than a museum, the centre also serves as the site of many events.

“We’re excited about the upcoming tourist season,” said Edie Suriano, the CBHC’s marketing and promotions coordinator.

“We’ll be welcoming cruise ship passengers and more than 20 bus groups in to see our large collection of vintage planes and find out about the history of bushplane flying in the north.”

“Our adventures continue with many events including the new WTF Variety Show at 8 o’clock on June 9 (part of the WTF Festival to be held in the Sault June 7 to 9), the Poker Run Awards banquet in July, our own 23 annual Bushplane Days in September, Oktoberfest, the Zombi Walk in October and the sixth annual Holiday Gift and Craft Show back for two weekends in November, to name a few,” Suriano said.

“We’re happy to have so many events happening at our museum. As a non-profit organization it helps us financially and the events are a great way to showcase our history to our local and out of town visitors.”

“We’re also now into our second year with Northern Nature Trading which encourages people of all ages to appreciate nature and learn about the biological and physical components of our environment. It’s wonderful watching young children who have gone out into nature, found something fascinating and rush to bring it to us and explain what it is. They get points for what they bring and what they have learned and trade it for something cool we have. Northern Nature Trading is included with membership with the Bushplane Museum,” Suriano said.    

The Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre is located in the historic waterfront hangar that was once home to the Ontario Provincial Air Service, and is the Sault’s only downtown water-based airport and helicopter landing site.

The centre has over 30 aircraft displays, two theatres, flight simulators and interactive activities for children. 

It also serves as a valuable centre of research and information on bushplane and forest fire fighting heritage.

Guided group tours are available on request. 

The museum’s Gift Shop has a variety of goodies for sale for aviation buffs, including crested T-shirts, sweatshirts and pants, hats, pins, and books.

The CBHC, on April 10, announced the appointment of Dan Ingram as its new executive director.

Ingram has a history of local involvement, best known as Heart and Stroke Foundation area manager, a position he held since 2000. 

Ingram has a passion for the Sault and, along with his management skills, is the recipient of several awards, including the Smoke Free Champion Award and the Police Services Award for saving a drowning victim.