Rowland Freedom Center

HONOR.
EDUCATION.
PATRIOTISM.

Our Current Displays

1912

Gonzales Brothers Biplane

One of the first aircrafts built in California, this unique example of aviation history was constructed by three teenage boys in San Francisco.

Donated by the Gonzales Family

1937

Ryan STA

Low wing monoplane. This particular Ryan was on display in the Nut Tree Restaurant until its closing.

Powerplant: 125 hp Menasco C4 inverted air-cooled inline engine
Max. Speed: 150 mph
Service Ceiling: 17,500 feet
Range: 350 miles

On loan from the Powers Family

1966

Bell Helicopters UH-1 Iroquois “Huey”

Built in 1966, this Huey was shipped to Vietnam and in 1969 took an RPG hit to the main rotor causing it to go down in the jungle. There was one minor injury and the chopper was rebuilt and stayed in Vietnam until the end of the war.

Powerplant: 1,100 shp Lycoming T53-L-11 turboshaft Max. Speed: 135 mph Service Ceiling: 19,390 feet Range: 315 miles

Donated by Rice Aviation

1944

Willy’s Jeep, Mercedes W31 Command Car Replica, M-16 Half Track, Anti-Aircraft Vehicle

Willy’s Jeeps were manufactured by Ford Motor Company and are the iconic WWII ground transportation. On loan from Herm Rowland.

This replica of General Rommel’s W31 Command Car was used in the movie ”The Desert Fox” starring James Mason. It was also used in the TV series “Combat” with Rick Jason and Vic Morrow. On loan from Rick Stewart.

The M-16 Anti-Aircraft vehicle was used in WWII. On loan from David DiLoreto.

Thanks to the American Armory Museum in Fairfield for these vehicles and other displays.

160-fighter

We're Open

The Rowland Freedom Center is open every day*, from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM, featuring a variety of aviation and military displays, honoring those who defend our freedom.

*Due to excessive heat (and no air conditioning), we may close early on certain days

Suggested Admission Donation – Adults 18-64 $5, Kids 4-17 $3, Active Duty, Veterans, Over 65 and Under 3 Free

The Center depends on your generosity to honor the people and technology that keeps us free.

 

Board of directors
  • Herm Rowland – Co-Chair
  • Sandy Person – Co-Chair
  • Len Augustine – Vice-Chair
  • Jim Dunbar – Treasurer
  • Kelly Nice – Secretary
  • Nancy Krystal - Board Counsel
Staff leadership
  • Paul Mirich – General Manager
Volunteer Opportunities
Hours of Operation
  • 10AM-4PM, Daily

Rowland Freedom Center
300 County Airport Rd. Ste. C4
Vacaville, CA 95688
Phone: (707) 449-3402
501 (C)(3) Non-profit: Tax ID 68-0479628

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