Sept. 5, 2001

Burbank Leader

Re: Piece of aviation history towed away

Sept 5, 2001

I congratulate the Burbank Leader for its continuing coverage of our great local aviation history, even when it's documenting the loss of the last original structure from our 70-year history of aviation. While I have no personal connection with aviation I strongly believe that something so historically significant and pervasive in our town's history cannot be simply forgotten as if it never happened. I want to document this history now, before it's too late. I make one last plea for your readers help.

If you have information about our local aviation history, of any of the hundreds of companies or thousands of people who did the work in this area, please make it available now. Personal stories, books, magazines, photos, company literature, business cards, movies, trade information, tools, parts, patterns…you name it. If it's aviation related then it's an important part of the story. With nothing left of our once great design, manufacturing and testing facilities and with the men and women who did the work passing on, especially those who worked in the 'black world', the time is now….or never.

The Centennial of Powered Flight is coming up in just over 2 years, celebrating a period when Burbank and surrounding areas made a huge impact in our nations and the world's history. It shouldn't boil down to just a three flat airplane cutouts on signposts at the mall. Visit the web site at http://www.GoDickson.com/ahsfv.htm or call me at 845-3300

Thank you

J. Ron Dickson