L.A. Birdmen: West Coast Aviators and the First Airshow in America

The Los Angeles International Aviation Exposition in 1910 showcased the lighter-than-air dirigibles and the heavier-than-air aeroplanes, marking the first time an airplane flew west of the Mississippi and inspiring companies like Lockheed Martin and Boeing. The event also highlighted the achievements of Californias daring pilots and airmen, who were often overlooked in the history of American aviation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 02 July 2024
Publisher: Globe Pequot Press

While today, many would recognize Wilbur and Orville Wright as the pioneers of American aviation, in the early 20th century, a different group of individuals emerged as the faces of American aviation. These individuals included August Greth, John J. Montgomery, Lincoln Beachey, Roy Knabenshue, and Captain Thomas Baldwin. While the Wrights claimed to have achieved powered flight, the Californians proved it with their daring and thrilling exhibitions. This energy culminated in 1910 when the city of Los Angeles hosted the International Aviation Exposition, the first airshow ever held in the United States. The airshow not only showcased the latest advancements in aviation technology but also played a crucial role in cementing Los Angeles's reputation as the "flightiest" city of its time. Los Angeles Birdmen delves into the stories and surprising legacies of these pioneering Californians, highlighting their contributions to American aviation at the turn of the century. Despite the Wrights' early demonstrations in 1908, critics remained skeptical of their heavier-than-air approach. The Southern California Aero Club, on the other hand, had members who were confident in their ability to fly. The construction of the Exposition Grandstand at Dominguez Field required an impressive effort, with 500 carpenters, 1.9 million feet of lumber, and 700,000 nails. The stage was set for a battle between the lighter-than-air dirigibles and the heavier-than-air aeroplanes, with the future of flight hanging in the balance. The Los Angeles International Aviation Exposition opened on January 10, 1910, marking a significant milestone in aviation history. It was the first time an airplane flew west of the Mississippi, and it planted the seeds of inspiration for generations to come.

Weight: 560g
Dimension: 235 x 161 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781493084395