The Descriptive Finding Guide for the Ray Cote Personal Papers SDASM.SC.10030-O/S

Finding aid prepared by Alan Renga
San Diego Air and Space Museum Library and Archives
2001 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park
San Diego, CA, 92101
(619) 234-8291
11/16/2016


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.

Biographical/Historical note

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.

Conditions Governing Use note

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

Preferred Citation note

[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.

Scope and Contents note

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

 

Box 1 of 1

Physical Description: 1. Handwritten letter with a cardboard border from Gerald R. Ford to Ray Cote, August 14th. 2. A printed letter with a cardboard border from George Bush to Ray Cote, November 6, 1989. 3. A Congressional Record with a cardboard border, A tribute to Ray Cote, Washington, Vol. 135, No. 116, September 13, 1989. 4. Painting of a photograph of six young pilots. 5. County of San Diego California Proclamation presented to Raymond K. Cote by George F. Baily, Supervisor, Second District. 6. Navy League of the United States Meritorious Award to Raymond K. Cote, May 6, 1960. 7. Painting of Ray Cote and his achievements painted by R Crawford. 8. [In Curatorial] Framed portrait and four silver coins “in appreciation” of Grand Marshal Ray Cote, 2007.