Have you ever dreamed of living in a truly unique and unconventional home? Jo Ann Ussery’s remarkable story of transforming an old Boeing 727 into a stunning, fully functional house might just inspire you. While alternative housing options like buses, tiny homes, and shipping containers have gained popularity, Ussery was a true pioneer in creating a one-of-a-kind living space long before it became trendy.
From Tragedy to Triumph
Ussery’s journey began after facing a devastating loss. Her husband’s unexpected death left her and her two children in need of a new home. With limited financial options, Ussery initially considered a trailer but soon realized it wouldn’t provide enough space for her family. That’s when her brother-in-law, Bob, an air traffic controller, suggested an unusual yet extraordinary idea: turning a plane into a home.
Intrigued, Ussery visited a disassembled Boeing 727 and was immediately captivated. The best part? The plane only cost $2,000, including delivery. Playfully inspired by Donald Trump’s ownership of a private Boeing 727, Ussery named her plane “Little Trump.” Armed with creativity and determination, she set out to transform the aircraft into a livable, comfortable home for her family. With a budget of less than $30,000, she poured her heart and energy into the project, turning it into both a personal and financial investment.
A Unique Oasis of Comfort
Positioning the plane on her property next to a scenic lake, Ussery began the transformation. The Boeing 727, with 76 windows and an impressive length of nearly 138 feet, provided abundant natural light and a bright, open atmosphere. She made essential renovations, including improving insulation and installing new flooring, while creatively repurposing parts of the aircraft, like the overhead bins and bathroom, to maximize space.
The results were nothing short of extraordinary. The transformed plane featured three bedrooms, a cozy living room, a fully functional kitchen, and even a laundry room. Ussery didn’t stop there—she added luxurious touches like a phone, an oven, and turned the cockpit into a master bathroom complete with a soaking tub overlooking the beautiful outdoor views.
A Legacy of Inspiration
From 1995 to 1999, Ussery and her children lived in their unique plane home, embracing the joys of their unconventional living space. The experience was so fulfilling that Ussery eventually turned the plane into a public museum, sharing her creation with the world. However, during the moving process, an unfortunate accident caused the airplane to slip off the carriage and disintegrate.
Although the Boeing 727 no longer stands as a physical structure, its legacy lives on, continuing to captivate and inspire. Ussery’s creative vision, determination, and ability to turn an outdated aircraft into a beautiful, functional home remind us that with passion and imagination, the possibilities for creating a unique living space are endless.
Dare to Dream, Dare to Transform
Jo Ann Ussery’s incredible story proves that thinking outside the box can lead to extraordinary results. Whether you’re dreaming of an unconventional home or pursuing a different vision, let her journey inspire you to push the boundaries of creativity and make your dreams a reality.
