Before South Towne Mall, Before Simpson Street, the South Side Was Madison's Royal Airport

by Oliver Zink, age 15

Although Charles Lindbergh was not the first to fly across the Atlantic, he was the first to fly across it solo. Lindbergh also piloted the “Spirit of St. Louis” to Royal Airport in Madison, Wisconsin, in 1927. He arrived in Madison to adoring crowds celebrating his historic trans-Atlantic solo flight three months after his historic achievement. Lindbergh was a pioneer in aviation worldwide and was idolized by both Americans and Europeans.

Lindbergh was born in Detroit, Michigan, on February 2, 1902. He enlisted in the United States Army as a pilot because of his interest in planes. However, the public’s view of Lindbergh changed when he campaigned against the U.S. in World War II. He died on August 26th, 1974.

From 1926 to 1938, the Royal Airport was a landing field that hosted stunt and flying shows. It was the center of Madison aviation. During that time, it also offered the first passenger service to Chicago. The Four Lakes Aviation Corporation rented 290 acres for $25 a month. The 100-foot-tall hangar could house 17 planes. Royal Airport was a part of the McCauley farm by the Yahara River. It had flying schools, air shows, and passenger flights.

On November 23rd, 1927, the first air mail from Madison left the Royal Airport carrying 15,000 letters. As bigger planes were built, the field's facilities became too small. In 1938, it closed, and Madison Municipal Airport replaced it.

In 2005, a marker was erected at the former airfield. The land used for Royal Airport became the Dance County Regional Airport. The marker has recognized the role it played in advancing Wisconsin aviation. The Royal Airport helped bring Aviation to the midwest and Charles Lindbergh helped bring Aviation to the World.

[Sources: Blooming Grove Historical Society; Wisconsin Historical Society; Wisconsin State Journal]