On May 20-21, 1927, Charles Lindbergh literally flew into history when he crossed the Atlantic Ocean in his Ryan NYP Spirit of St. Louis, thus becoming the first pilot to fly solo and nonstop from New York to Paris. This flight made Lindbergh a household name and catapulted him into fame and celebrity. The objects of popular culture in the National Collection display everything from ashtrays to wristwatches reflect the public adulation for Lindbergh and the powerful commercial response to his celebrity. More than 75 years after the Spirit's historic flight, Lindbergh's name still has the power help sell manufactured goods.
Display Status
This object is on display in Boeing Aviation Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Type
MEMORABILIA-Popular Culture
Physical Description
Single gold colored bookend with the Spirit of St. Louis placed among a pattern of swirls. The plane is tilted on its side so that the top of the wing is visible when viewed from the front. Below the swirl pattern along the bottom edge text has been inscribed into the metal "Spirit of the Times" The propeller on the nose of the airplane spins freely. A picee of green felt is attached to the bottom of the bookend.
Dimensions
3-D: 12.7 x 8.6 x 12.7cm, 0.9kg (5 x 3 3/8 x 5 in., 2lb.)
Materials
Metal and fabric
Inventory Number
A20040292060
Credit Line
Gift of the Stanley King Family.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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