Beginning with the barnstormers and flying circuses, this book tells of aviation in Iowa from 1919 to 1941. Native Iowans and also persons coming to the state participated in aeronautical activities. Some set world records for distance flown or time aloft, while others won races at national events. Aspiring pilots joined flying clubs. A few designed and built aircraft. A substantial number of Iowans operated flying services. Still others flew for the airlines or became aviation mechanics. Despite their commitments to earning a living in aviation, these men and women enjoyed flying and often spent weekends at air shows, performing for the thousands who came to watch pilots fly thrilling routines and parachutists float earthward. Attending airport dedications and air shows, as well as observing the air tours which occurred in Iowa, offered the enthusiasts and the merely curious a way to participate in aviation. Perhaps these encounters led to their support of airport projects.