Free Expo & Aviation Showcase Celebrates Historic Ford Hangar’s 100th Anniversary

Flight, History and Family Fun coming Saturday, September 19^th

LANSING, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The 100^th Anniversary of the Historic Ford Hangar in Lansing, Illinois is shaping up to be a party for the century. The Saturday, September 19^th Expo & Aviation Showcase is not only a celebration of the Albert Kahn masterpiece, it’s also a bash for all things vintage aviation.

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 party continues up in the sky.

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 recommends.

The Expo & Showcase is from 11 am to 4 pm on Saturday, September 19^th at 3239 Glenwood-Lansing Road. The event is free and open to children and adults. Henderson says, “For those interested in learning about the architecture and innovations of the Hangar itself, JMA Architects will be leading tours throughout the day to point out the features that make this building so special.”

More information about the Expo, Friday’s Gala, Saturday morning’s Historic Places Tour, and booking an EAA flight experience is at fordhangar100.org.