Judy Cook
Come view the following exhibits at the Litchfield Park Museum;
Lighter Than Air—Balloons, Blimps and Dirigibles
This new exhibit looks at the evolution of early hot-air balloons that hovered over Louis XVI through to present-day. Included are the enormous dirigibles of the early 20th century’s luxurious airships, including the mighty zeppelins. Discover the mystery of how the legendary Hindenburg met its end.
Post WWII finds new uses for balloons and blimps, one is Macy’s annual Thanksgiving Day Parade. Goodyear Aircraft plant, built in Litchfield Ranch for the WWII effort, became the site for creation of the famous Popeye balloon. You’ll see images and a video of the Popeye balloon; share the experience of four southwest Valley “balloon girls” creating this rubber cartoon figure.
Goodyear Aircraft—Arming for War
The Goodyear Aircraft Corporation was built in Arizona in August of 1941 – three months before the Pearl Harbor attack. Within two years Goodyear was recognized as one of the leaders in the manufacture of weapons and equipment. The Goodyear plants made dozens of military products such as military tires, gas masks, rubber life rafts etc. The goal was to bring victory to America.
This exhibit examines Goodyear Aircraft-Arizona between the years 1941 to 1945 and is set against a larger framework of WWII events, included are photos of the Naval Air Facility established alongside the plant. You will come away from this exhibit with a deep appreciation for the generation Tom Brokaw called “The Greatest Generation.”
These fascinating exhibits can be viewed at the Litchfield Park Museum, 13912 W. Camelback Road in Litchfield Park; Wednesday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. For more information phone 623-535-4414 Entrance is free.