Aircraft N38620 Data

This J-3 was bought in Clyde TX in 1963 by my Father, Thomas E. Russell and was used as a crop duster during 63-64. It was then rebuilt with "clip wing" modifications and a larger engine at our home in Ft. Worth TX. The plane was to be used for aerobatics. During practice on 12/20/65 at Pylon Airport, Arlington TX (see abandoned airfields) while doing a slow roll at approx. 50' agl the carborated engine briefly lost power while inverted. In an attempt to (L) snap roll right side up, the plane impacted the ground with the right wing and nose. Russell, flying from the rear seat was killed on impact. The plane was completely destroyed. The only surface to not sustain damage was the right horizontal stabilized.