The History of MPC
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Model Products Corporation (MPC) was around in the grassroots days of model rocketry. Although the name might not mean much to today's new rocketeers, it certainly has it's place in the history of model rocketry. Although not much data nor records were left to research the history of this company, the following history is based on written documentation to prospective dealers, catalogs, and written record. If you have additional information, or would like to suggest a correction to this record, please email info@skyhighhobbies.com.
MPC was started in approximately 1968 or 1969 soon after acquiring Model Rocket Industries (MRI was established in 1968 by Myron Bergenske). Located in Mount Clemens, Michigan, this company produced many boxed and "blister-packed" model rocket kits, including the Titan III-C and 1/87 scale Vostok scale plastic models that could be built for flight or display. MPC ceased model rocket production in about 1973, and sold all molds and tooling to Aerospace Vehicles Incorporated (AVI) who continued to sell these kits under the MPC name until 1978.
Amidst all the changes that MPC was going through, in about 1970 or 1971, G. Harry Stine came into the picture as a paid consultant to Model Products Corporation. G. Harry Stine worked closely with Myron Bergenske, convincing him that there was a potential market for the 13mm rocket motor. The Mini-Jet motors were born in 1/4A to B sizes, and new altitude records were written into the books as well. Estes was soon to follow with their own version of the 13mm size motor after seeing the performance that was possible with these mini powerhouse motors. G. Harry Stine also influenced MPC through his involvement in the design of many of the Miniroc rocket kits, as well as some of the other rocket kits in the MPC line up.
After MPC sold their inventory, molds, and tooling to Myron Bergenske, who had started his next model rocket company, AVI, kits continued to be sold under the MPC name until about 1978. Although no longer MPC, many more kits were produced and sold under the MPC name. There were rumors after the closing of AVI that there was a large stock-pile of MPC products left. Turns out, some rumors are true.
Produced Circa 1969
Produced Circa 1970
Produced Circa 1973
Produced Circa 1970 - 1971
Produced Circa 1970 - 1973
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