Step-by-Step: Building a 1931 National Heath Parasol

Late summer 2015:  After extensive research into the history of Peanut Scale models, museum volunteer Tom Hallman builds a 12″ Heath Parasol FF model airplane for the museum.  Built from National Model Aircraft & Supply Co. plans, the Heath Parasol kit was one of the first produced as part of National’s Midget line.

Tom documented the process with the pictures below.

Source: National Model Aviation Museum Library.  Ad, National Model Aircraft & Supply Co. “NEW 12” Midget Flying Scale Models.”  Model Airplane News, March 1931, pg. 3.
The ad that started it all.  National Model Aircraft & Supply Co. “NEW 12” Midget Flying Scale Models.” Model Airplane News, March 1931, pg. 3.

Heath Parasol build #1, it starts as wood and reed.  Photo by Tom Hallman.Heath Parsol build #2. Starting with the tail. Photo by Tom Hallman.

Heath Parasol build #3: Framing the fuselage.  Photo by Tom Hallman.Heath Parasol build #4: Framing the wing.  Photo by Tom Hallman.Heath Parasol build #5: All the frame work. Photo by Tom Hallman.Heath Parasol build #6: Completed frame.  Photo by Tom Hallman.Heath Parasol build #7: Frame and tissue. Photo by Tom Hallman.Heath Parasol build #8: Covering the tail. Photo by Tom Hallman.Heath Parasol build #9: Covering the fusealge.  Photo by Tom Hallman.

Heath Parasol Build #10:  A close-up of the pre-printed tissue. Photo by Tom Hallman.Heath Parasol build #11: Wheels and prop.  Photo by Tom Hallman.Heath Parasol Build #12: Finishing touches.  Photo by Tom Hallman.Heath Parasol build #12: Done!  Photo by Tom Hallman.Heath Parasol Build #13: Posing for a photo op.  Photo by Tom Hallman.Heath Parasol Build #14: Ready to fly.  Photo by Tom Hallman.All photos by Tom Hallman.

September 2015:  Tom finishes the model, flies it and brings it to the National Model Aviation.  Want to see it fly?  Check out Tom’s video of the process.

For more detailed information relating to the National Heath Parasol, please read the “History Preserved” article in the March 2016 issue of Model Aviation.

Thank you, Tom, for helping to grow the museum’s collection!

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For more information on the National Model Aviation Museum, including our location, hours and admission fees visit: www.modelaircraft.org/museum

4 comments

  1. Popular Mechanics, April 1928, page 156
    Popular Science, April 1928, page 130

    AIRPLANE 12-inch scale model of Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis. Scientifically designed and very realistic. Equipped with rubber band motor. Rises from ground by own power and flies 30 ft. or more. Easily built without tools. Construction set, with all parts and full directions, postpaid in U.S., only 50c (no stamps). Satisfaction or money back. Send now.
    Mann & Benton, 53 W. Second St., Chillicothe, Ohio

    I don’t imagine this is the earliest. Just stumbled on it.

    Gary Hinze

    1. I don’t know of any place where you can buy this kit. But, I do know that the plans are available through KAPA Kollector. Good luck!

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