SUBJECTS >> OPERATIONS >> World War I
AIRCRAFT >> OBSERVATION >> Jenny JN-4
Catalog Number:
1997.070
Location:
255 RICHARD RAY BLVD.
Description:
As the "Tuskegee Airman" were the Air Forces' pioneer African-american pilots, the "Barnstormers" of the 1930's were the pioneers of American black aviation. Performing air shows though out America, to largely black audiences, they motivated many to seek flying. Although this painting does not depict a specific day or event, it captures the nostalgia and romance of early African-American aviation. Inspired by the dozens of performers and thrill seekers who helped broaden the scope of american aviation. Many of these pilots would later become the instructor cadre of the Tuskegee Army Air Field. Depicted in the painting are: James Herman Banning (flying by) who completed the first trans-continental flight by African-Americans in 1932. A copy of William Powell's 1934 book "Black Wing," which was dedicated to Bessie Coleman. The aircraft is a Curtiss "Jenny" a favorite of "barnstormers". The airshow signs are also depicted from vintage photos of Black Airshows. By setting the example that they could do it, these pilots encouraged others to follow.