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
Manufacturer
Bachmann Company
Physical Description
A yellow train car with a black undercarriage and eight wheels attached to the bottom in two groups of four and a large white box on the two longest sides. Inside the box is a light blue and black image of the Spirit of St. Louis with red lettering "Lindbergh's Flight" To the left of the white box is an image of an eagle with its wings spread and a shield on its breast. The text "American Heritage Series" and two stars encircle the bird.
Dimensions
3-D: 19.7 x 3.8 x 5.4cm (7 3/4 x 1 1/2 x 2 1/8 in.)
Materials
Plastic and metal
Inventory Number
A20040289033
Credit Line
Gift of the Stanley King Family.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.