History-of-ETAM

The History of the

East Texas Aeromodelers

Gary Fort

After visiting with some long time members out at the flying field, I have been able to start a history of the club dating back to 1946. Thanks to Dwain Ferguson, Floyd Harp and some of the other "Fossil Flyers" for most of this information.

In 1946, Dwain Ferguson saw Mr. T.R. Posey fly a control line plane with a gas engine at the East Maountain football field.

In 1954, Kleeb's Toy Ranch offered glow power control line models. Rex Price, T.R. Posey, Floyd Harp, Dwaine Ferguson, Alvin Plyler, Wayland Wood and Eddy Naper flew them at the new Longview airport.

Around 1957-58, the first RC plane was seen at the old Longview airport on east HW 80. I think that is called Eastside airport. It was flown by T.F. Madison and another member. After moving to the new airport, TF Madison, Dwaine Ferguson, Eddy Harper and others flew single channel rc planes.

Around 1962, a group of men started flying at Gladwater airport. TF Madison. Dwaine Fergson, Charles Mouie, Rex Price, TR Posey, Dr. Ray, Gene Templson, Eddy Harper, Floyd Harp and Wayland Woody were some of the RC pilots at that time.

Around 1976, the officers were Pres. Mike Collier, V.P. Arlon Stuart, V.P. Randy Mulliken and Sec/Treas. Bill Schineman. At that time they were flying at the corner of East 80 and Eastman Rd.

The Club was first named Gregg County RC'ers and the Executive director of AMA was John Worth.

Two years later the name was changed to East Texas Aeromodelers to include surrounding towns and communities of the membership.