Our great adventure has taken a turn in a very unique direction. For many years, we have enjoyed an occasional flight with a private pilot in small aircraft, and we have even considered learning to fly. But full-time RV living is really not very compatible with becoming a pilot, so we have put that experience aside, at least for now. When we saw the ad for volunteers in "Workamper News" placed by Rich & Ginger Davidson, we thought we would check it out, just as a lark. How fortunate it is that we acted upon that whim!
The first trip to the Field was an experience to say the least! We missed a turn from our directions and parked the motorhome in the lot of a rural church, unhooking the CR-V to drive in and locate our objective. That was probably one of our better choices. Once on Prospect Road, the road is very narrow and though paved, it is very steep and has two turns that are so short that a long RV can not meet another vehicle of any kind while traversing that 1/4 mile stretch. Once we visited the field, Ginger warned us to go ahead with the CR-V and just block traffic before starting down with the motorhome. By doing so, the trip was uneventful and we now know that this is done by all who live along this road and no one thinks a thing of it. This is a rural road with only about a dozen residents and everyone knows each other. For anyone who enjoys birds, this is a special place.
There are more songbirds here than almost anywhere in North America. Other wildlife is also common with deer on the field so frequently that pilots are warned to make a low pass before landing to chase the deer from the runway. We also see skunks, raccoons and wild turkeys.
We have spent time in many locations where people were friendly, but this one is probably going to be the champion of all. Our first day here was spent touring the area around the field, and in meeting the neighbors. And in our first week here, there have been two occasions where neighbors have stopped by just to see if we need anything or to share the produce from their garden! And everyone waves as they go by.
Our site is between the trees and the runway, and we can see the Ohio River through the trees from our motorhome. The runway is 4000' long and our main job is to keep it and the and apron areas mowed. It takes about 15 to 20 hours to mow. We also help with other projects when needed, but we have plenty of time to explore the area and to experience the local features, and fishing is available in the Ohio River.
There are only two airplanes hangered here, but there are "drop in" visitors every day. This grass field is used mostly by airplanes that were built many years ago. The field is open for public use and all pilots are welcome. We have found the pilots to be a very friendly bunch.
Many planes just drop by for a cold drink and a visit, some bring a picnic and a few camp here for the night.
The biggest thrill is when a really rare airplane drops by. We have been visited by the last flying Sopwith Camel as well as quite a number of other rare airplanes. The pilots seem to be a society that is very much like that of the RV world, with very little social distinction.
This was probably the most unique experience of our volunteer experiences thus far. We will always have a special place in our hearts for Lee Bottom and for both Rich & Ginger and the nearest neighbors, Jr. & Emily.
Lee Bottom is located about 40 miles northeast of Louisville, KY and about 10 miles south of Madison, IN. It is located along the Ohio River and is on South River Bottom Road. You can also check them out at their official web page at www.leebottom.com