Welcome to the Tillamook Air Museum, a fascinating journey into the past, nestled within one of the largest wooden structures in the world, Hangar B. This architectural marvel stands as a testament to the ingenuity and urgency of World War II. Constructed in 1943, Hangar B is a relic of the Naval Air Station Tillamook, originally built to house K-class blimps that patrolled the U.S. coastline for enemy submarines. The hangar is made from over 3 million board feet of lumber, sourced locally from Oregon, and its sheer size is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
During the war, blimps from this station safeguarded the Pacific Northwest, providing a crucial line of defense against enemy threats. However, the invention of jet aircraft soon rendered these airships obsolete, leading to the decommissioning of the station in 1948.
Today, the museum preserves this wartime history through its rich collection of aircraft and artifacts. Among its most notable exhibits is the recently acquired AV-8B Harrier II, a combat-tested aircraft with a storied past, including missions in Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq and Syria. Its arrival at the museum was a historic event, as it flew directly from the Naval Air Weapons Station in China Lake.
The museum also offers a glimpse into broader aviation history, featuring exhibits that span from World War I to contemporary military aviation. Visitors can explore the evolution of flight technology and the stories of those who operated these incredible machines.
As you explore the Tillamook Air Museum, you’ll not only witness the grandeur of Hangar B but also delve into the pivotal moments of aviation history that shaped our world.
