Among the unheralded historical catalysts of Kansas
are the municipal airports that have graced many of the
state’s communities. The importance of these to the
development of air transportation and air service has
never been treated. But Prairie Runways addresses this
discrepancy in Kansas history in microcosm. Susan
Thompson, native Kansas freelance writer and long-time
Wichita resident, has produced an enlightening, heavily
illustrated, thoroughly documented account of the
Wichita Municipal Airport. It especially highlights its
signature Administration Building which today houses
the Kansas Aviation Museum.
The Wichita Airport has played a vital role in Kansas
aviation history, from the beginning of flying in Wichita
in 1911 through the barnstorming years of the 1920s to
the start of construction of the airport during the Great
Depression, its completion as aircraft manufacturing
matured during World War II, until the US Air Force
assumed control of it as a pilot training base. This is a
story about civic leaders, pioneer pilots, passenger
airlines, air mail, numerous celebrities that stopped at the
airport, and the construction, maintenance, and service
employees who worked there. Proceeds from the sale of
the book fund education and exhibition programs for the
Kansas Aviation Museum.
Prairie Runways is a must read for air and aviation enthusiasts and has been
recommended for nonfiction and Kansas collections in libraries of all
types. Thanks to the State of Kansas for commentary.
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