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
One metal bookend (of a pair), bookend features a thin back with a base that gradually slopes upward from front to back. The slope has multiple bumps done in relief on that resemble clouds. The upper section of the bookend has the Spirit of St. Louis in relief set against clouds. Text is engraved into the metal underneath the airplane, it reads, "First Nonstop Flight New York to Paris May 21st to May 22nd 1927 Time: 33 HRS: 21 MIN Piloted by Capt. Charles A. Lindbergh"
Dimensions
3-D: 12.7 x 5.4 x 12.7cm, 1kg (5 x 2 1/8 x 5 in., 2 3/16lb.)
Materials
Metal and fabric, felt
Inventory Number
A20040292070
Credit Line
Gift of the Stanley King Family.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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