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Papa’s Place

Though it’s been many years, the memories live on. Courtesy Peter Garrison
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • In 1971, the author and friends serendipitously discovered Papa Fernandez, a remote, rustic settlement in Baja California, which became a cherished escape for a decade, offering simple living and fresh seafood.
  • The community faced a significant threat when John Wayne attempted to claim the land for a resort, but a Mexican court ultimately ruled in favor of Papa Fernandez, allowing him to retain his home.
  • Years later, while neighboring areas underwent significant development, Papa's original settlement saw its airstrip repurposed, yet its hidden beach remained pristine and untouched, symbolizing an enduring wildness.
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Almost 50 years ago, Nancy and I and a couple other would-be hippies, brother and sister, flew to Baja California, Mexico, in a Beech Musketeer, N298M. Whatever happens to obliterate airplanes must have happened to that Musketeer, because N298M is now a Cessna.

Peter Garrison

Peter Garrison taught himself to use a slide rule and tin snips, built an airplane in his backyard, and flew it to Japan. He began contributing to FLYING in 1968, and he continues to share his columns, ""Technicalities"" and ""Aftermath,"" with FLYING readers.

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