The Aline Rhonie Mural: The Pre-Lindbergh Era of American Aviation
Part of the Cradle of Aviation Museum’s America 250 Celebration
April 30, 2026
The Aline Rhonie Mural: The Pre-Lindbergh Era of American Aviation is now on view at the Museum.
This landmark historic artwork depicts the pioneers and aircraft that shaped the earliest years of American flight, from 1909 through 1927. Created by pilot and artist Aline Rhonie, the mural chronicles the formative years of aviation leading up to Charles Lindbergh’s transatlantic flight and reflects the experimentation, innovation, and ambition that defined early American aviation, with Long Island as the setting for many of these early breakthroughs.
Originally painted on the wall of Hangar F at Roosevelt Field, the mural returns near its original home following decades of preservation. Measuring 100 feet in length, the work took four years to complete and portrays more than 500 aviators and aircraft, offering a comprehensive visual record of the people and innovations that helped establish Long Island as the Cradle of Aviation.
The mural was preserved by the Long Island Early Fliers Foundation and later donated to Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology, which served as its steward for many years before its return to public view at the Cradle of Aviation Museum.
Part of the Museum’s America 250 Celebration, the installation is one of several exhibitions and programs planned throughout 2026, including new exhibits, speaker series, film screenings, interactive educational experiences, and public and family programs tied to America’s 250th anniversary.
About the America 250 Celebration at the Cradle of Aviation Museum
The Cradle of Aviation Museum’s America 250 Celebration is a year-long initiative of exhibitions, programs, and experiences planned throughout 2026. Through aviation and space history, the Museum’s programming includes exhibitions, speaker events, film screenings, interactive educational experiences, and public and family programs exploring America’s past, present, and future
