Our Aircraft’s History

Piper J3L Cub (S/N 3026; FAA N21440) ~ The recent acquisition at MAPS Air Museum was originally built in 1938 by Piper Aircraft in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania.  She is an American light aircraft that is good for low-speed handling and short-field performance.

Designed as a trainer, the aircraft was widely used in general aviation as well as for the military. Over 80% of the US military pilots had their initial flight training in one of the Piper Cub versions during the course of WWII. She also served as a reconnaissance, liaison and ground control aircraft. Military designations were: US Army O-59 (1941) then L-4 Grasshopper (after April 1942); US Navy NE.

  • Additional information on the J3L’s history is on-going
  • 1980’s thru 2022 – owned by different members of the Kreeger family
  • Summer 2022 – Donated to MAPS Air Museum by Loren D. Kreeger of Lima, Ohio

Specifications/Performance (J3C-65 Cub)

  • Crew: one pilot
  • Role: Primarily trainer
  • Nation of Origin: United States
  • Manufacturer: Piper Aircraft
  • First Flight: 1938
  • Produced: 1938-1947
  • Number Built: 19,888 (US built)
  • Unit Cost: $1000 1938 (J3L Cub)
  • Engine: O-145-A1 (50HP) or O-145-A2 (55HP) (J3L Cub)
  • Length: 22 ft 5 in
  • Wingspan: 35 ft 3 in
  • Height: 6 ft 8 in 
  • Empty Weight: 765 lb
  • Max Weight: 1,220 lb
  • Cruise Speed: 75 mph
  • Max Speed: 87 mph
  • Range: 220 mi
  • Service Ceiling: 11,500 ft

Museum display notes: TBD

Armament, notable

None, though the L-4 Grasshopper utilized rockets.

Designed to replace: Taylor J-2 Cub

Intended replacement:  Piper PA-11 Cub Special