The first poster, “Early Days of Aviation,” inspired by the early 1900s, captures the pioneering spirit that marked those formative years before the official establishment of LGB in 1923 when Long Beach’s sandy shoreline served as a runway. Onlookers were amazed as early aviator Earl S. Daugherty—who later helped establish the airport—soared through a serene expanse of blue sky in an early Curtiss Flyer Model D.
“Historic Terminal,” the second poster, pays homage to LGB’s Historic Terminal building, which was completed in 1941. A City-designated Historic Landmark, the architectural gem was designed by architects William Horace Austin and Kenneth Smith Wing in era-defining Streamline Moderne style. Reflected in its runway-facing windows is the silhouette of a Douglas DC-3 passenger plane manufactured by thousands in Long Beach.
In "Keep 'Em Flying,” the third poster reflects on Long Beach Airport’s robust aircraft manufacturing history and its significant contributions during World War II. Here in Long Beach, women of all backgrounds became Rosie the Riveters and worked around the clock to produce military aircraft vital to the war effort—including the B-17 depicted in mid-flight—at Douglas Aircraft Company.
The final poster, “Welcome to Long Beach,” celebrates how Long Beach’s unique climate, tourism, and manufacturing industries helped the city thrive into mid-century. A DC-3 flies above beach waves and an iconic skyline that includes Villa Riviera and Breakers Hotel as well as The Pike’s Cyclone Racer rollercoaster.
“At Long Beach Airport we are committed to finding creative ways to preserve our rich history, and this poster series is a fun way to celebrate our past while we set our sights on reaching new heights for the future,” said Airport Director Cynthia Guidry. “I’m proud to be part of both the inherited legacy of LGB and how we are recognized today as one of the best airports in the country and gateway of choice for Southern California.”
The remaining three 8 x 10 posters will be unveiled on LGB’s social media channels over three days before being available free at Saturday's grand reopening on July 27 at LGB’s Historic Terminal after major renovation and restoration.
Beyond celebrating its Historic Terminal reopening, California's oldest municipal airport is amid a yearlong centennial campaign featuring events like these commemorative posters' release designed to honor LGB's rich aviation history. The campaign underscores its role as an economic driver and convenient gateway while inspiring future aviation professionals. Earlier releases included a four-part short film series and historic report highlighting lesser-known stories from diverse contributors who made Southern California an aviation hub over decades.
For more information about LGB’s centennial running from November 2023 through November 2024 visit lgb.org/100th.
About Long Beach
Long Beach is nestled along Southern California's coast with approximately 466,000 residents offering metropolitan amenities while maintaining diverse neighborhoods' culture. Known for scenic beaches it attracts tourists with landmarks like Queen Mary Aquarium Pacific award-winning Convention Entertainment Center Port & Airport.
More information: longbeach.gov; Facebook X Instagram YouTube @LGBAirport
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