Cote (Ray) Personal Papers, 1924-2015

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Summary

Title:
Ray Cote Personal Papers
Dates:
1924-2015
Abstract:
Ray Cote was a world famous air race pilot. This collection documents many of his accomplishments.
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.
Language:
English .
Preferred citation:

[Item], Ray Cote Personal Papers, [Repository "San Diego Air & Space Museum Library & Archives"]

Background

Scope and content:

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.

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.

Acquisition information:
The materials in this Collection were donated to the San Diego Air and Space Museum.
Physical facet:
3 Boxes.
Dimensions:
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"
Rules or conventions:
Describing Archives: A Content Standard

About this collection guide

Collection Guide Author:
Alan Renga
Date Encoded:
This finding aid was produced using ArchivesSpace on 2025-06-02 14:00:12 +0000 .

Access and use

Restrictions:

The collection is open to researchers by appointment.

Terms of access:

Some copyright may be reserved. Consult with the library director for more information.

Preferred citation:

[Item], Ray Cote Personal Papers, [Repository "San Diego Air & Space Museum Library & Archives"]

Location of this collection:
2001 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park
San Diego, CA 92101, US
Contact:
(619) 234-8291
archives@sdasm.org
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