This is the first airplane operated by Aviation Services, Inc., which later became Air Midwest, Inc. founded by Gary Adamson. 

The six-seat Cessna 206 was certified 19 July 1963 and introduced as a 1964 fixed-gear version of the model 210 and was built until 1986 when Cessna halted production of its single-engine line.

The 206 was known as being stable, rugged, reliable, and for being able to carry a half-ton of passengers and/or cargo after the fuel tanks were filled. It was so useful, it was generally known as a “flying pickup truck.”

The museum’s aircraft was configured as the U206. The “U” indicated “Utility” and was equipped with a pilot side door and two opposing rear doors permitting easier access to the back two rows of seats, and enabling easy loading of cargo.  The passenger seats were removable to increase the cargo-carrying space. The aircraft was initially used to transport human remains for area mortuaries, emergency medical flights, and skydivers.

Much like the Cessna 172 before it, the 206 was a very popular bush plane and can be found in some of the most remote places on earth. This 206 was used by Gary Adamson for his air mortuary business, which is why it contains a replica casket. Adamson eventually expanded his business from one plane to a local airline named Air Midwest.