Spotlight on History: The Stinson Junior S Joins the Mississippi Wing for a Special Night

Visitors to the Mississippi Wing of the Commemorative Air Force’s Hangar Dance were treated to a rare sight in 2024—the beautifully restored Stinson Junior S, a historic aircraft that embodies both vintage charm and reliable performance. With its iconic high-wing design and classic lines, this aircraft became an instant favorite among attendees, highlighting the rich legacy of aviation that the CAF is dedicated to preserving.

About the Stinson Junior S

The Stinson Junior-type "Model S" is a high-winged cabin monoplane designed with comfort, practicality, and dependability in mind. With seating for four in a surprisingly spacious and well-appointed cabin, it was ideal for businessmen, private owners, and flying service operators alike.

Powered by the 9-cylinder Lycoming R-680 radial engine producing 215 horsepower, the Model S was built to handle a variety of operating conditions—from short sod strips to paved runways—with ease. First certified on May 12, 1931, the Junior S proved to be a popular model with over 100 units built by the Stinson Aircraft Corporation, a division of the Cord Corporation, in Wayne, Michigan.

A Personal Connection to the Mississippi Wing

The particular aircraft that made an appearance at our 2024 Hangar Dance—NC12164—was meticulously restored by Gregory "Bunky" Larson of Washington. It was later acquired by the Mid America Flight Museum, and in 2020, it found a new home with CAF Mississippi Wing member Paul Barnett. We extend a heartfelt thank you to Paul for bringing this rare gem to our event!

General Characteristics:

• Crew: 1

• Capacity: 3 passengers

• Length: 28 ft 11 in

• Wingspan: 42 ft 1 in

• Height: 8 ft 9 in

• Wing Area: 235 sq ft

• Powerplant: 1 × Lycoming R-680 radial piston engine, 300 hp

• Propeller: 2-bladed controllable-pitch

• Empty Weight: 2,172 lb

• Gross Weight: 3,265 lb

Performance:

• Maximum Speed: 120 mph

• Cruise Speed: 100 mph

• Range: 400 miles

• Service Ceiling: 11,000 feet

Don’t Miss Our Next Event!

With aircraft like the Stinson Junior S gracing our hangar during our events, you never know what piece of aviation history might show up next! Stay connected with the Mississippi Wing of the Commemorative Air Force and join us as we continue to celebrate, preserve, and fly the aircraft that helped shape aviation history.