Ray Cote Personal Papers
Scope and Contents
This is a three-box collection. Box 1, measuring 24 ¼ x 19 ¼ x 2 ½ inches (oversized flat), contains several certificates, letters, and two paintings. One item is framed and contains a photograph of Ray and four silver coins as a token of appreciation by the Reno Air Racing Association, and is in the curator’s possession. The letter by Gerald Ford was also framed but has been removed. It is organized by size.
Boxes 2 and 3 were donated at a later time, but contain items written and collected by Ray Cote. Box 2, measuring 16.25x12.5x10.5”, contains documents from Ray’s research in developing a racecourse. Box 3, measuring 16.25x12.5x10.5”, contains clippings and articles featuring Ray. The collection highlights the achievements and awards of Ray Cote.
Dates
- 1924 - 2015
Conditions Governing Access
The collection is open to researchers by appointment.
Conditions Governing Use
Some copyright may be reserved. Consult with the library director for more information.
Biographical / Historical
Raymond K. Cote was born May 15, 1924 to Raymond and Marion Cote in Woonsocket, Providence, Rhode Island. He was an avid flier and began his flying career at six years old in New England, and spent the following forty-six years as a professional pilot, a fighter pilot, a flight instructor, and an engineering test pilot. He served in World War II, the Korean War, and was an advisor for the Vietnam War. He was also chosen as the only pilot to fly the replica of the Spirit of St. Louis prior to the airplane being sent to the San Diego Aerospace Museum. Additionally, he achieved national recognition by winning thirteen races in Formula-One midget air race competitions at the National Air Races in Reno, Nevada. He worked at Teledyne Ryan Aeronautical in San Diego as Manager of Flight Operations until 1990. On September 8, 1951, he married Gladys M. Anderson.
Extent
2 Cubic Feet (This is a three-box collection. Box 1, measuring 24 ¼ x 19 ¼ x 2 ½ inches (oversized flat), contains several certificates, letters, and two paintings. One item is framed and contains a photograph of Ray and four silver coins as a token of appreciation by the Reno Air Racing Association, and is in the curator’s possession. The letter by Gerald Ford was also framed but has been removed. It is organized by size. Boxes 2 and 3 were donated at a later time, but contain items written and collected by Ray Cote. Box 2, measuring 16.25x12.5x10.5”, contains documents from Ray’s research in developing a racecourse. Box 3, measuring 16.25x12.5x10.5”, contains clippings and articles featuring Ray. The collection highlights the achievements and awards of Ray Cote. ) : 3 Boxes. ; Box 1, measuring 24 ¼ x 19 ¼ x 2 ½ inches (oversized flat). Box 2, measuring 16.25x12.5x10.5”, Box 3, measuring 16.25x12.5x10.5”
Language of Materials
English
Abstract
Ray Cote was a world famous air race pilot. This collection documents many of his accomplishments.
Immediate Source of Acquisition
The materials in this Collection were donated to the San Diego Air and Space Museum.
- Title
- The Descriptive Finding Guide for the Ray Cote Personal Papers
- Author
- Alan Renga
- Date
- 11/16/2016
- Description rules
- Describing Archives: A Content Standard
- Language of description
- Undetermined
- Script of description
- Code for undetermined script
Repository Details
Part of the San Diego Air and Space Museum Library and Archives Repository
2001 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park
San Diego 92101 USA US
(619) 234-8291
(619) 233-4525 (Fax)