Canadian toughs out first flight to Brodhead. Years of car trips to Pietenpol reunion inspired homebuilt craft success

By Tony Ends, Interim Editor

Scott Knowlton of Toronto flew his homemade plane for the first time last week on a trip he’d made 10 hours by car for years to Brodhead.

One of his mentors, Dan Helsper, flew in hours ahead of him that Thursday from Anamosa, Iowa.

They were among Brodhead Pietenpol Association’s 600 members whom severe weather warnings did not deter from meeting in Brodhead.

Talk to them a little while, and you’ll feel the draw to Pietenpol’s annual reunion. You’ll feel the magnetism of the Pietenpol aircraft.

Pick up the print edition for full story….