Have you ever dreamed of living in a truly unique home? Jo Ann Ussery did just that when she transformed an old Boeing 727 into a beautiful living space. Before the trend of alternative housing options like tiny houses and shipping containers took off, Jo Ann embarked on her own extraordinary journey.
A Unique Solution
Jo Ann’s adventure began in 1993 when her home in Benoit, Mississippi was devastated. As a widow with two children and limited funds, finding a new place to live was a challenge. At first, she considered buying a trailer, but it wouldn’t accommodate her large family. It was then that her in-law Bob, an air traffic controller, suggested something truly unique – living on a plane.
Intrigued by the idea, Jo Ann went to see a disassembled Boeing 727 and instantly fell in love. She purchased it for just $2,000, including shipping, and affectionately named it “Little Trump” after discovering that Donald Trump owned a private Boeing 727 as well. With a budget of less than $30,000, she embarked on the exciting task of transforming her new acquisition into a functional and cozy living space.
A Dream Come True
To ensure stability during the interior renovations, Jo Ann strategically placed the plane on her property with its nose pointing out over a serene lake. The tail was securely anchored with a substantial amount of concrete. Although the airplane’s windows were non-functioning, the presence of air conditioning made it a minor inconvenience.
With around 1,500 square feet of interior space, Jo Ann wasted no time in revamping the plane to suit her needs. She created three bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, and even a laundry facility within her unique home. But the most impressive transformation was the cockpit turned luxurious master bathroom, complete with a soothing soaking tub. Imagine relaxing and enjoying a stunning view of the lake from this truly one-of-a-kind space.
A Labor of Love
Jo Ann’s determination and creativity were unstoppable. She completed the entire renovation herself, turning her beloved “Little Trump” into a fully functional and comfortable living space. From 1995 to 1999, she happily lived aboard her converted plane, reveling in the joy of waking up to a breathtaking view every morning.
A Legacy Lives On
In due course, Jo Ann decided to share the marvel of her transformed plane with the public. However, during the relocation process, disaster struck – the plane slipped off the carriage and disintegrated. Despite this setback, Jo Ann’s ingenuity and determination had already left an indelible mark on the world of unique housing.
Keenly admired for her vision and resourcefulness, Jo Ann Ussery’s housing adventure serves as a reminder that home is not just a physical structure but also a testament to our ability to turn dreams into reality. So, what’s your dream housing adventure?
