Grumman G-21
The Grumman G-21 Goose amphibious flying boat was designed as a 6-7 seat 'commuter' plane for businessmen in the Long Island area. It was soon adopted by the US Navy and Coast Guard,
and during World War II it served with United States forces and the RCAF in a transport, reconnaissance, rescue and training roles, and was used by the RAF for air-sea rescue duties. Returning to civilian service after the war, the Goose found use from the wilderness of Alaska to the sunny climes of Catalina. 345 Geese were built, with about 60 still airworthy today. Various modifications have been made over the years, and some are now flying with turboprop powerplants. Fictional appearances
In Jimmy Buffett's first novel, Where is Joe Merchant?, protagonist Frank Bama owned and operated a rebuilt Grumman Goose dubbed the Hemisphere Dancer. (The actual Hemisphere Dancer is a Grumman Albatross that belongs to Buffett and is now the centerpiece for his "Margaritaville Cafe" restaurant in Orlando, FL).
External linksgrummangoose.comGrumman Goose at the Smithsonian
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