Families flock to Shafter for a glimpse of aviation and automobile marvels

The community was invited to the 7th annual 'Wings N Wheels' event at the Minter Field Air Museum on November 9, 2024, where rows and rows of American history was on full display.

Families from far and wide were able to partake at the historical airfield in Shafter. For the Schmidt family, they couldn't wait to attend for a second year.

"We talked about this show for the whole year," said Don Schmidt. "Couldn't wait to make it out to this one the cars, the planes, the helicopters are very cool."

The Board Chairman of the Air Museum, Ronald Pierce, envisioned this event to be fun and historical for everyone.

"It is really wonderful to be able to reach out to the young children, the people that aren't aware of what Kern County, Shafter and this area contributed to World War Two," said Pierce.

Pilot Jacob Westra and his son, Jake, visited the free museum a few weeks ago. They decided to fly from Visalia with their friend to participate in the event.

"This just creates memories," said Jake. "I've been flying with my dad since I was little This creates those memories that you can look back and you can really laugh and smile at."

Organizers said all proceeds from the event will help preserve Minter Field and Kern County Aviation history.