New Book Chronicles the History of Lambert-St. Louis International Airport

By Carmelo Turdo

A new book released this week tells the story of the origin, growth and current state of Lambert-St. Louis International Airport, one of the nation's first municipal airports and a current Midwest Aviation center.  The book, The Aerial Crossroads of America: St. Louis's Lambert Airport, by Dr. Daniel L. Rust, makes excellent use of primary sources and local first-hand accounts to take the reader on a journey through nearly 100 years of aviation history in the Gateway City.  The book is filled with rare photos and helpful illustrations to enhance the stories that make up this intriguing tale. 

Dr. Daniel L. Rust, Author

Several book launch events were held this week, including yesterday's monthly meeting of the Missouri Aviation Historical Society (MAHS), the sponsor of the project.  Author Dr. Daniel L. Rust presented an outline of the book and stayed for an autograph session Thursday evening.  Speaking to a capacity crowd at Creve Coeur Airport, Dr. Rust encouraged a lively discussion of Lambert Airport (in it's various stages of development and name changes) and St. Louis Aviation in general.  Many of those attending the MAHS meeting were participants in the episodes chronicled in The Aerial Crossroads of America, and they were looking forward to the publishing of the book.  

Dr. Rust was quick to acknowledge those who worked diligently on the book, providing sponsorship, research materials and editorial assistance over the last four years: Dan O'Hara, President of the Missouri Aviation Historical Society and project sponsor; Alan Hoffman, St. Louis attorney and pilot who first expressed the idea of the book; The Missouri History Museum, publishing sponsor and contributor; and the Greater St. Louis Air & Space Museum, contributor of photos, research materials and editorial talent essential to the success of the book.  Many other individuals and groups also contributed, and they are recognized in an extensive Acknowledgements section in the back of the book.  In a magnanimous gesture, Dr. Rust announced that all of the proceeds from the book will be donated to the Missouri Aviation Historical Society.     



Dr. Daniel L. Rust discusses The Aerial Crossroads of America



Dr. Rust autographs books after his presentation