Collection Guide
Collection Title:
Collection Number:
Get Items:
The Descriptive Finding Guide for the Ray Cote Personal Papers
SDASM.SC.10030-O/S
SDASM.SC.10030-O/S
View entire collection guide
Search this collection
Table of contents
Title: Ray Cote Personal Papers
Identifier/Call Number: SDASM.SC.10030-O/S
Contributing Institution:
San Diego Air and Space Museum Library and Archives
Language of Material:
English
Physical Description:
0.65 Cubic feet
This is a one box collection measuring at 24 ¼ x 19 ¼ x 2 ½ inches (oversized flat). The box contains several certificates,
letters, and two paintings.
Date (inclusive): 1924-2015
Abstract: Ray Cote was a world famous air race pilot. This collection documents many of his accomplishments.
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.
Conditions Governing Access note
The collection is open to researchers by appointment.
Some copyright may be reserved. Consult with the library director for more information.
[Item], Ray Cote Personal Papers, [Repository “San Diego Air & Space Museum Library & Archives”]
Related Archival Materials note
Air Racing files.
Immediate Source of Acquisition note
The materials in this Collection were donated to the San Diego Air and Space Museum.
This is a one box collection measuring at 24 ¼ x 19 ¼ x 2 ½ inches (oversized flat). The box 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. The collection highlights the achievements and awards of Ray Cote. It is organized by size.
Subjects and Indexing Terms
Cote, Ray, 1924-
Airplane racing
Ryan Aeronautical