Have you ever dreamt of living in an extraordinary home? Well, prepare to be amazed by Jo Ann Ussery’s remarkable housing adventure. While alternative housing options like buses and tiny houses are gaining popularity, Jo Ann took things to a whole new level by transforming an old Boeing 727 into a breathtaking residence.
For Jo Ann Ussery, this endeavor was more than just creating a unique place to live. It was a testament to human ingenuity, showcasing the power of turning dreams into reality. Let’s take a closer look at her incredible journey.
Setting off in the early 2000s, Jo Ann purchased a retired Boeing 727 plane with big plans in mind. Instead of scrapping it like most people would, she saw its potential as a home and embarked on a daring mission to convert it into a comfortable living space.
With unshakable dedication, Jo Ann meticulously designed and restored the interior of the airplane, turning its cabins into a warm and distinctive house. Of course, there were challenges along the way, but her unwavering vision paid off.
Today, Jo Ann Ussery’s Boeing 727 residence stands tall, nestled in the woods, and drawing international attention. It is a testament to ingenuity and thinking outside the box when it comes to finding unique housing solutions. Jo Ann’s story is an inspiration to anyone with a desire or a passion, proving that with devotion and ingenuity, the sky is truly the limit in bringing aspirations to life.
Jo Ann’s journey began in 1993, when her home in Benoit, Mississippi was destroyed. As a widow with limited funds, finding a new place to live was incredibly challenging. It was then that her in-law, Bob, an air traffic controller, suggested something truly out-of-the-box – living on a plane.
Intrigued by the idea, Jo Ann went to see a disassembled Boeing 727. It was love at first sight, and she purchased it for a steal at just $2,000, shipping included. Affectionately naming her new home “Little Trump,” Jo Ann embarked on the ambitious task of transforming the plane into a functional living space, all with a budget of less than $30,000.
To ensure stability during the interior renovations, Jo Ann positioned the plane on her property with its nose overlooking a serene lake. The tail was securely reinforced with concrete. Despite the non-functioning windows, she made the presence of air conditioning more than sufficient, making it a minor inconvenience.
With around 1,500 square feet of interior space, Jo Ann wasted no time in revamping the airplane. She created three bedrooms, a cozy living room, a functional kitchen, and even a laundry facility within the plane’s structure. But the most impressive transformation was the cockpit-turned-master bathroom, complete with a luxurious soaking tub. This unique layout allowed residents to feel as though they were floating while enjoying breathtaking views of the lake.
Remarkably, Jo Ann completed the entire renovation herself. From 1995 to 1999, she joyfully resided aboard her converted plane. Eventually, she made the decision to transform it into a public museum. Unfortunately, during the process of relocating it for display, the plane slipped off the carriage and disintegrated. Despite this setback, Jo Ann’s resourcefulness and determination have left an indelible mark on the world of unique housing.
Jo Ann Ussery’s Boeing 727 transformation serves as a reminder that sometimes we have to think beyond traditional housing options to find something truly extraordinary. So, if you’re ever in need of inspiration or a dash of adventure, look to Jo Ann’s story and remember that dreams can take flight with a little ingenuity and a lot of dedication.
