The Founding & Nomadic Era (1955 – 1988)
The Westminster Aero Modelers was founded in 1955, a time when the hobby of radio-control aviation was in its infancy. Early enthusiasts were true pioneers, grappling with the technical hurdles of the day: vacuum tube radios that were susceptible to interference, temperamental glow or gas engines that required constant tuning, and complex, often homemade, mechanical escapement systems for control. Building an aircraft from a kit or plans was a significant investment of time and skill, and successfully flying it was a major achievement. In this environment, clubs were not just social groups but essential hubs for technical support, shared knowledge, and troubleshooting.
For the next three decades, the club’s defining challenge was the lack of a permanent place to fly. This “nomadic” period saw members flying from a variety of borrowed locations, including local farms and any open field where permission could be secured. One known informal site was located near the intersection of Route 97 and Route 32 in Westminster, where pilots would park on the roadside to access the open space. This constant search for flying sites became a central part of the club’s identity and mission.
Despite not having a permanent home, the club grew steadily. By 1988, its organizational needs had evolved. On November 8th of that year, under the leadership of President Bill Hasert, the membership voted to amend the club’s constitution, formally separating the roles of Vice-President and Secretary. This move was a direct response to the club’s growth and the increasing need for a structured leadership team dedicated to the primary, long-term goal: finding and securing a permanent flying field for the Westminster Aero Modelers.
Community Outreach and Recognition: The Path to a Permanent Home (1991 – 1995)
Engaging the Community (1991): The School Program: Recognizing the importance of community engagement, the club launched a significant outreach initiative by conducting an educational program for local schools. Club members volunteered their time and expertise to teach students about the fundamental principles of flight, aerodynamics, and the hands-on STEM skills required to build and fly model aircraft. This program was a major success, showcasing the educational value of the hobby beyond recreation.
State Recognition (1992): The Governor’s Citation: In direct recognition of their outstanding contributions to the community and the success of their 1991 school program, the Westminster Aero Modelers were awarded a Governor’s Citation. This prestigious award from the state of Maryland, presented by the office of the Governor, validated the club’s efforts in youth education and community service, marking a high point in its public engagement and solidifying its reputation as a valuable local organization.
Baughers Farm – A Key Partnership: During this period and for many years, the club formed a crucial partnership with the Baugher family, which allowed members to fly from a field on their farm property in Westminster. Baughers Field became a beloved and essential site, providing a stable, reliable location for countless flights, events, and training sessions. It continues to be used as a primary field, particularly when Spiegel Field is closed for the winter hunting season.
Spiegel Field (1995): A Permanent Home at Last: The club’s decades-long search culminated in 1995 when Spiegel Hill was officially selected by Carroll County as the permanent site for the Westminster Aero Modelers Park. This landmark achievement was the result of years of advocacy and planning. The years immediately following were dedicated to transforming the raw land into a functional aerodrome. Members volunteered countless hours to clear the property, grade the land, establish grass runways, and build the initial infrastructure, turning a long-held dream into a physical reality.
The Modern Era (2000 – Present): Community, Mentorship, and Diverse Flying
With permanent fields fully established, the club enters a new era of growth and community engagement.
Facility Development: Spiegel Field undergoes continuous improvement. The initial grass runways are meticulously maintained, and key infrastructure is added, including dedicated setup tables and workbenches, and clear safety fences to protect both members and the public.
Adapting to Technology: The club fully embraces the rapid evolution of the hobby. While traditional gas and glow-powered models remain popular, the membership expands to include a wide array of electric-powered foam planes, large-scale 3D acrobatic aircraft, helicopters, and, most recently, a significant community of FPV quadcopter and drone pilots.
Strengthening Community Focus: WAM solidifies its reputation as a welcoming organization. It establishes a highly successful, free 90-day mentorship program, pairing new pilots with experienced instructors to ensure a safe and enjoyable entry into the hobby. The club also increases its community involvement, participating in local events and welcoming spectators to the field.
Establishing Signature Events: The club’s calendar becomes centered around key annual events. The WAM Flea Market grows into a must-attend event for RC enthusiasts in the region. Regular fun-fly competitions, often with unique themes and challenges, and club cookouts become cornerstones of the social season, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie.
Community Recognition (2025): The club’s commitment to community engagement and youth mentorship is recognized when it is named the recipient of a “Hey Westminster” grant for June 2025, providing further support for its outreach programs.
Continued Tradition: Throughout this modern era, the club continues to hold its monthly meetings at the local VFW post, maintaining a tradition of fellowship that has been a hallmark of the organization since its earliest days.
Fostering the Next Generation of Aviators: The creation and sustained success of the club’s free 90-day mentorship program is a cornerstone achievement. By providing free instruction, equipment guidance, and a welcoming environment, WAM has successfully introduced hundreds of new people to the hobby, ensuring the passion for model aviation is passed on to future generations.
Becoming a Hub for the RC Community: Through its signature events, WAM has established itself as a central pillar of the regional RC community. The annual WAM Flea Market has grown from a small club gathering into a major regional event, attracting vendors and enthusiasts from across the state. Regular, well-organized fun-flys and cookouts have further cemented the club’s reputation for camaraderie and hospitality.
Adapting and Thriving Through Technological Change: While honoring its roots in traditional model aviation, the club has successfully navigated decades of technological evolution. Its ability to embrace and integrate new forms of flying—from the rise of electric power to the explosion of FPV drones—has kept the club relevant, diverse, and appealing to a broad range of interests.
Closing Summary: A Legacy of Passion and Perseverance
From its humble beginnings in 1955 as a small group of pioneers in a fledgling hobby, the Westminster Aero Modelers club has evolved into a thriving and respected institution. Its history is a story of perseverance—a decades-long search for a permanent home that culminated in the creation of Spiegel Field and Baughers Field. It is a story of adaptation, as the club has consistently embraced new technologies and flying disciplines. Above all, it is a story of community. Through mentorship, shared work, and a passion for aviation, WAM has not only built a premier flying site but has also created a lasting legacy of fellowship, ensuring that the joy of model aviation will continue to be shared in Carroll County for generations to come.