New home for historic exhibit

Sometimes the cultural landscape changes without notice or fanfare. An example of this is the absence of the model airplane collection at The Eastern Iowa Airport. This collection, known as the Horsky collection, has been a part of the cultural landscape for over 40 years, spending the last 30 or so years existing in a secluded corner of the present terminal building. The walls of this quiet corner are lined with historical photos and plaques. This is also the last and only space of refuge from the noise and hurried whirl of activity that rightly fills the remainder of the terminal.

That will soon be gone. The Airport Commission has approved a $47 million renovation plan that will mean the loss of that quiet glass-walled refuge and its historical contents, including the Horsky Collection.

It can still be seen. The collection has found a home for one year at The History Center of Cedar Rapids. This move didn't happen without volunteers like Bill Kreuger, Duane Cooley, Tom Flanagan and Jim Douglas. They made it happen and the Horsky family sincerely thanks them.

Charlie Kucera

Cedar Rapids