N79458 Stinson V-77 Gullwing S/N 77-36

The Stinson Reliant, commonly known as the Gullwing, was one of the most successful aircraft built by Stinson. There were 1,327 built.

The Stinson Reliant, SR-10, was introduced in 1938. It featured leather upholstery, walnut instrument panels and automobile -style roll down windows. It carried a pilot plus three or four passengers at speeds up to 165 mph and had a range of 815 miles. It was known for its durability, safety, and stability in flight. It was favored by corporations and commuter airlines.

The Army sold N79458 to William F. Kennedy of Chicago in July 1946 for $1,500. The sale was held in Richmond, Va. It has had a total of 20 owners, not counting the military.

A ferry permit, dated July 13, 1946, list the aircraft as a British AT-19, serial number 77-36. The U.S. serial number was listed as 42-46675. The British ID number was given as FK-845.

The only war history known is the Army SN 42-46675, which means that it was built in 1942. the original engine was overhauled at Richmond Naval Air Station, Va., in 1945.

The British ID number means this aircraft was originally part of the lend lease program, more than likely the shipment was canceled. It appears to have been operated by the Navy.

It was sold to the museum in November 1995.