Kingman Army Airfield Museum
Discover the human side of WWII history at the Kingman Army Airfield Museum, honoring 36,000 trained gunners with personal stories and memorabilia.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more curator time
Kingman Army Airfield Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more curator time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the human side of WWII history at the Kingman Army Airfield Museum, honoring 36,000 trained gunners with personal stories and memorabilia.
"Small museum packed with a lot of history. If you're interested in people, you will find walls and cases covered with memorabilia."
🎯 Focus on Stories
Expect personal stories and memorabilia, not vintage aircraft. It's about the people trained here!
💖 Make a Donation
The museum operates at a loss. Generous donations and book purchases are vital.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
WWII Gunner Training Stories
Discover the lives of 36,000 volunteer gunners trained at this historic base. Packed with personal memorabilia.
Archival Photos and Artifacts
Explore walls covered with historical photos and select artifacts detailing the base's wartime operations.
Meet the Curators
Engage with passionate curators like Rob, who share deep knowledge and dedication to preserving this history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Focus on History, Not Aircraft
Support a Labor of Love
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Rows upon rows of US B-17 Flying Fortresses, now no longer of use, sitting at Kingman Army Airfield in Arizona, US after WWII. Many were basically brand new, but would end up being scrapped in the post-war years.
🎯 Focus on Stories
Expect personal stories and memorabilia, not vintage aircraft. It's about the people trained here!
💖 Make a Donation
The museum operates at a loss. Generous donations and book purchases are vital.
Rows upon rows of US B-17 Flying Fortresses, now no longer of use, sitting at Kingman Army Airfield in Arizona, US, 1945. Many were basically brand new, but would end up being scrapped in the post-war years. [950x587]
B-17 Post-War Boneyard Kingman AZ
🗣️ Chat with Curators
Curators like Rob are passionate and knowledgeable. Ask questions and learn more!
📚 Buy a Book
Support the museum by purchasing books filled with history and insights.
In 1947, Kingman, AZ, became the final resting place for countless B-24s, destined for scrap. Many of these aircraft had seen only a few months of service during WWII, while others had not been used in combat at all, having been delivered directly from Willow Run in 1945.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Focus on Stories
Expect personal stories and memorabilia, not vintage aircraft. It's about the people trained here!
💖 Make a Donation
The museum operates at a loss. Generous donations and book purchases are vital.
🗣️ Chat with Curators
Curators like Rob are passionate and knowledgeable. Ask questions and learn more!
📚 Buy a Book
Support the museum by purchasing books filled with history and insights.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the museum for its rich historical content, focusing on the personal stories of WWII gunners trained at the base. The dedication of the volunteer curators is a highlight, though some may be disappointed by the lack of aircraft displays. It's a place best appreciated for its deep dive into the human element of history.
"Small museum packed with a lot of history. If you're expecting to see vintage aircraft, you will leave disappointed, but if you are interested in people, and the lives they lived while in training at the base during the war, you will find walls and cases covered with all sorts of memorabilia and a few choice artifacts too. This base was where 36,000 gunners were trained during the war, and all the gunners were volunteers! Drop in and see Rob, and make sure to tell him you read our review. The museum operates at a loss as a labor of love by the curators. Make a generous donation, after all, the folks taking care of this facility are donating their time. Buy a book or two, and tell your friends!
- Mark & Debi Dorman, Chandler, AZ"
Debi Dorman
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Thom Hastings
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Dan Yates
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Kingman, Arizona. Specific driving directions can be found using GPS or online mapping services. It's often mentioned in conjunction with the Kingman Army Airfield itself.
Parking is generally available at or near the museum. It's advisable to check with the museum directly for the most current parking information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is often donation-based, as the museum operates at a loss. Visitors are encouraged to make a generous donation to support its preservation.
Operating hours can vary as the museum is run by dedicated volunteers. It's best to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Advance booking is typically not required. However, due to volunteer staffing, it's always a good idea to confirm hours and availability.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum focuses on the human history of the Kingman Army Airfield, particularly the training of 36,000 WWII gunners. Expect extensive memorabilia, photographs, and personal stories rather than aircraft.
No, the museum does not typically display vintage aircraft. The focus is on the people and the history of the base during its operational years.
Yes, the museum is staffed by passionate volunteers, like Rob, who are eager to share their knowledge and stories about the airfield's history.
While the exhibits are historically focused, children interested in WWII history might find the personal stories and photographs engaging. Adult supervision is recommended.
🎫 📚 Books & Souvenirs
Yes, purchasing books is a great way to support the museum and take home more historical information.
The books typically focus on the history of the Kingman Army Airfield, WWII aviation, and the lives of the airmen trained there.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more engaging, consider discussing the concept of volunteerism and bravery before or after your visit. The museum's curators are often happy to share anecdotes, which can bring the exhibits to life. Remember that the museum relies on donations, so a small contribution from the family can help support this historical endeavor.
📚 History Buffs & Aviation Enthusiasts
Engage with the knowledgeable curators who are passionate about this history. They can offer insights that go beyond the displays. Consider purchasing books to delve deeper into the subject matter. This museum is a treasure trove for understanding the dedication and sacrifice of the individuals who served, offering a different, yet equally valuable, perspective compared to traditional aviation museums.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of WWII Gunner Training
The museum's collection is rich with personal memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts that paint a vivid picture of the training era. Unlike many aviation museums that showcase aircraft, the Kingman Army Airfield Museum prioritizes the human element. Visitors can learn about the daily routines, the challenges faced, and the camaraderie among the trainees. This focus makes the history feel incredibly personal and relatable, offering a unique perspective on the war effort.
It's important to understand that the museum operates as a labor of love by its curators. They are dedicated to preserving this specific slice of history, often with limited resources. Visitors are strongly encouraged to support their efforts through donations and purchases, ensuring this important story continues to be told for future generations.
Supporting a Community Treasure
Visitors are encouraged to go beyond just viewing the exhibits. Making a generous donation is highly recommended, as it directly supports the museum's operational costs and preservation efforts. Furthermore, purchasing books offered by the museum is another excellent way to contribute financially while also taking home valuable historical insights. These actions help ensure that the stories of the brave gunners trained at Kingman continue to be accessible.
By understanding the museum's operational model, visitors can appreciate the dedication involved and actively participate in its sustainability. It’s an opportunity to not only learn about history but also to contribute to its ongoing preservation.
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