Long Beach Airport releases commemorative poster series for centennial celebration

The first poster, “Early Days of Aviation,” captures the pioneering spirit of the early 1900s before LGB was officially established in 1923. It features early aviator Earl S. Daugherty flying a Curtiss Flyer Model D along Long Beach’s sandy shoreline.

“Historic Terminal,” the second poster, honors LGB’s Historic Terminal building completed in 1941. Designed by architects William Horace Austin and Kenneth Smith Wing in Streamline Moderne style, it includes an image of a Douglas DC-3 passenger plane, reflecting Long Beach's manufacturing heritage.

The third poster, "Keep 'Em Flying," reflects on LGB’s contributions during World War II. It depicts women working at Douglas Aircraft Company producing military aircraft like the B-17 bomber.

The final poster, “Welcome to Long Beach,” celebrates mid-century aviation and highlights how Long Beach’s climate, tourism, and manufacturing industries helped the city thrive. It features a DC-3 flying above iconic landmarks such as Villa Riviera and Breakers Hotel.

“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 a part of both the inherited legacy of LGB and how we are recognized today as one of the best airports in the country and the gateway of choice for Southern California.”

The remaining three posters will be unveiled on LGB’s social media channels over three days before being available free at the grand reopening and public open house of LGB’s Historic Terminal on July 27. The terminal recently underwent major renovation and restoration.

This celebration is part of a yearlong centennial campaign that includes various events designed to honor LGB's aviation history, underscore its economic impact, and inspire future aviation professionals. Earlier initiatives included a four-part short film series and historic report featuring stories from diverse contributors who have shaped Southern California's aviation landscape.

For more information about LGB’s centennial activities running through November 2024, visit lgb.org/100th.

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