7 Images

Steward

Eastern Air Lines, circa 1938

Following the maritime tradition of male stewards, Eastern Air Lines issued this distinctive uniform for its cabin staff. John Brisendine wore this uniform while serving aboard

DC-3s in the late 1930s. The three red stripes denote his three years of service. Eastern was one of the last major carriers to introduce stewardesses, and then only when World War II thinned its male staff.

Gift of John Brisendine

Display Status

This object is on display in America by Air at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.

America by Air

Object Details

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Uniforms: Civil

Physical Description

Cream-colored cloth with red and silver trim on shoulder straps, lapel and cuffs. Two rows of chrome buttons down front. Embroidered in red on left chest: "Flight Steward", on left sleeve: "Eastern Air Lines". Three red bars denoting three years service on lower left sleeve above left cuff.

Dimensions

Clothing (On Mannequin): 44.5 × 46 × 18cm (1 ft. 5 1/2 in. × 1 ft. 6 1/8 in. × 7 1/16 in.)
Other (Sleeve Length): 61cm (2 ft.)
3-D (Overall, Stored with Light Padding): 67.3 × 76.2 × 8.3cm (2 ft. 2 1/2 in. × 2 ft. 6 in. × 3 1/4 in.)

Materials

Natural Fiber Fabrics (Including Possible Silk)
Synthetic Fiber Fabrics
Copper Alloy
Chrome Plating
Uncharacterized Thread

Inventory Number

A19772522000

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
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