Reading Regional Airport took a step back in time to 1939 as it celebrated its 75th anniversary on Saturday, Oct. 11 with an open house and reception.
Manager Terry Sroka noted in an earlier interview that when it came to planning for the celebration, they took their cue from the original opening ceremony which was on October 7, 1939. That event drew 100 thousand attendees according to records.
The open house event was free to the public and featured two DC-3s – the American Airline Flagship Detroit and Pan-Am Airline DC-3 – and included tours of the planes with guides dressed in 1940s attire to fit with the theme of the day. Also outside of the Old City Hanger were classic cars that fit between 1938 and 1948 on display which guests could vote on for a “People’s Choice” award and a Kids Corner that offered crafts and activities for the younger attendees. Other planes were also on display outside.
As attendees stepped into the hangar, they took a step back in time with a number of guests and members of the Reading Regional Airport dressed in their 1930s to 1940s best as well as music that fit the time period. Along the front of the hangar were numerous tables set up with displays relating to the airport including news clippings, photos and other items pertaining to the site.
Inside, attendees were able to see the setup for the reception and dinner dance later that evening which included center pieces with a large “75” and special shot glasses for the anniversary celebration at every table.
On October 7, 1939, Reading Regional Airport opened through joint efforts of city officials and the federal government. At that time, Eastern and Capital airlines flew out of the site. Now the airport offers services to chosen destinations as well as charter trips to Disney World/Orlando on Southwest Airlines.
The weather did not keep people away from the open house and other activities as more and more attendees made their way to the airport and into the hangar around mid-day. Live big-band music was performed during the reception.
Though perhaps it was not exactly as it had been in 1939 when the airport first opened, the feel of the day’s step back in time made it that much closer for attendees to feel what it was like during that first celebration.
For more on Reading Regional Airport visit www.readingairport.org.
