Beginning with an unmanned balloon ascension in 1845 and ending with World War I, this book is a lively account of the early years of aviation in the state. Iowans witnessed an exciting array of manned balloon ascensions, powered dirigible-type airships, and parachute leaps from balloons and aeroplanes. The first aeroplane flights occurred in the state during 1910, and from that year onward, men and women flying these “crates� dominated the aviation scene. Several Iowans became prominent nationally and internationally because of their aeronautical feats. Native Iowans, as well as aeronauts and aviators from other states and countries, performed at celebrations and fairs for thousands of people who traveled miles to attend.