The 100th anniversary of the Historic Ford Hangar, 3239 Glenwood-Lansing Road in Lansing, is shaping up to be a party for the century from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Expo & Aviation Showcase.
Michelle Henderson, Events Planner for the Village of Lansing, says, “People can come and go throughout the day. There will be a curated car show featuring Ford vehicles from the 1920s through the 1940s. We’ll have aviation-themed activities, crafts, face painting, and glitter tattoos for the kids. Our gaming truck will include aviation-themed options. Guests can use our photo booth and take home prints as a souvenir.”
The Lansing Historical Society has combed through their extensive archives and will display photos, artifacts and art not just related to the history of the Hangar, but to all history happening a century ago. That dovetails perfectly with the “Legends of Aviation,” as actors portraying Amelia Earhart, Charles Lindbergh, Rosie the Riveter and more will be on hand for questions and photographs.
The Experimental Aviation Association is bringing a Ford Trimotor to display and offering flight experiences Friday through Sunday. The Illinois Aviation Academy will fly in a Cessna 172 and several planes from the 1960s that guests can touch and explore.
In the early afternoon, “the Patriot Parachute Team will demonstrate the precision of skills honed during World War II to accurately drop on targets behind enemy lines,” says James McCoy, Lansing’s Director of Aviation Outreach. Dacy Airshows will thrill viewers with aerobatics at heights of up to 6,000 feet. “Bring your binoculars,” McCoy said.
The event is free and open to children and adults.
