Henry Ford: Aviation

30 artifacts in this set

In 1924, Henry Ford, Edsel Ford and Ford Motor Company began a brief but important stint in the budding aviation industry. Before withdrawing in 1933, the Fords built a modern airport and established Midwestern freight, passenger and air mail service. They pioneered navigation systems, sponsored promotional events, and manufactured airplanes. This Expert Set was compiled in 2013 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Henry Ford’s birth.

Detailed Description

Stout Metal Airplane Company Factory, Ford Airport, Dearborn, Michigan, 1924

Photographic print

William B. Stout established the Stout Metal Airplane Company in 1922. Henry Ford, who took a personal and professional interest in Stout's firm, built this factory for the company in 1924. It was possibly the first building in the United States constructed specifically for the commercial production of airplanes. The building was destroyed by a fire on January 17, 1926.