History,  News

Aviation Month Returns in February

Early Birds Monument
A U.S. Army Bell-47 hovers over the Early Birds Monument to unveil it on Dec. 17, 1954, on Governors Island.

The second annual Aviation Month returns to the Governors Island Guide in February. With the Island closed until May 1, more stories about the history of aviation will be presented weekly on the news blog.

The series debuted last year and was incredibly popular and the stories were read all year. In August Governors Island made worldwide aviation news once again. The popular Drone Nationals were broadcast live from the Island on ESPN3; a few thousands drone enthusiasts descended on the south end for it.

These are the stories from 2016:

  • Wilbur Wright Flies Over New York Harbor in 1909
  • Glenn Curtiss and the 1910 Flying Marksman of Fort Jay
  • Pioneer Aviator Katherine Stinson, the Schoolgirl Pilot, Lands in 1917
  • The Early Birds Monument and Governors Island Aviation Pioneers

    More aviation history stories will be presented in February. Since the centennial of America’s entry into World War One is in April, we’ll have some attention focused on that important milestone.

    For more history stories, pick up The Governors Island Explorer’s Guide (Globe Pequot Press).

  • Kevin C. Fitzpatrick has written and edited seven books with ties to New York history, including "The Governors Island Explorer's Guide" and "World War I New York: A Guide to the City’s Enduring Ties to the Great War." Kevin is a licensed sightseeing guide and has been leading walking tours since 1999. He resides in Manhattan.