Hutch Post, in partnership with Steve Harmon and the Conard-Harmon Collection, is proud to present Throwback Thursday. Enjoy a weekly release from Steve Harmon as he presents the "Hutch - Then & Now Collection."
STEVE HARMON
Hutch Post Contributor
Today's "Throwback Thursday Collection" takes us to the 2300 block of East Avenue G on the south side.
In 1915, airplane flight was in its infancy. Hutchinson had no airport at that time, but it did have Emerson Carey! He was Hutchinson's most-notable entrepreneur and visionary.
Carey took a section of his farmland and turned it into a landing field. He made his sister, Mrs. W.E. Albright, the live-in manager of the property and the Albright Airfield was born.
There were many national, as well as state, notables who made their way through this facility. Carey even started the Hutchinson Airways Corp. for transporting mail and small packages. The first photo shows that plane.
He also started a pilot training school, known as the Mid-American Air College. The second photo shows that plane.
Carey named his son, William, as president of both the airways and the college with both offices located at 1326 E. Ave. A, where Interfaith Housing is now located.
The field was abandoned in 1930 to construct a cement runway airport at 4th and Airport Road. Its dedication was June 6, 1930. That property was also owned by Emerson Carey.
At the dedication, there were 23 airplanes and two gliders shown for the celebration. The third photo shows an aerial of the Albright Airfield location between Lorraine and Halstead on the south side of East Avenue G.
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Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:
Gambino's Pizza
Sleep Shoppe & Furniture Gallery
Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce
STRATACA Kansas Underground Salt Museum
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