George Alton Stewart Collection, PC.1752

George Alton Stewart's papers deal with his life after he received his pilot's license in 1924. The papers reflect the last five years of his personal and business lfe. The Stewart scrapbook is a collection of photos and newspaper clippings which cover Stewart's fascination with planes and his outstanding flying career.

George Alton Stewart was the first licensed aviator in North Carolina. He was born in Coats, NC, on May 16, 1897, and he was married and was the father of three children. He owned a small auto repair shop in Coats. Stewart was first introduced to flying when he received a free ride for his services for repairing an army biplane which was forced to land due to mechanical problems. Stewart bought a surplus Army Jenny and he went ro Pope Field at every opportunity. After he learned airplane mechanics he hung around until the army pilots gave him flying lessons. His instructions included stunt flying as well as how to use log books. In 1924 Stewart was given his aviator license.

In the late 1920's, Stewart moved to Raleigh, and together he and some public officials obtained the first army-approved municipal airport for Raleigh. To earn money Stewart flew passengers, and in country fairs, and stunt contests. He also taught many people to fly, and it was while teaching that he died. On Christmas Day, 1929, Stewart and two students were training over Dunn, NC, when the plane went out of control and crashed killing all three passengers.

George Alton, 1897-1929 Stewart

Aeronautics

Aviation -- History

Dunn, N.C.

Gift