Cheyenne Arts & Aviation Center

Boeing Air Transport, the largest airline in the United States (later to become a part of United Airlines), established its headquarters here in Cheyenne in 1927, and the world’s first stewardesses were trained in Cheyenne beginning in 1930. During World War II, Fort Warren and the airport played a pivotal role in the training efforts, and the airport became a common stop for well-known aviators like Charles Lindbergh and Amelia Earhart.

📷: Wyoming State Archives

After World War I, the expansion of the airmail service became a national priority. Cheyenne faced competition from Denver to become the mid-country stop for the Transcontinental AirMail Route. Despite uncertainty, Cheyenne's residents funded the expansion of Wales Field and additional infrastructure. However, in July 1920, the War Department redirected the land at Fort Russell for other uses, jeopardizing Cheyenne's role.

In response, the community swiftly began constructing a new airstrip near Sloan’s Lake. By September 8, 1920, just six weeks later, the first airmail flight, carrying 16,000 letters, successfully took off from Cheyenne, reducing coast-to-coast delivery time by 48 hours.

📷: Wyoming State Archives

In late September of 1919, Cheyenne’s aviation history took flight at Fort D.A. Russell with a game-changing telegram. The town was designated as a major stop in the first-ever “Transcontinental Reliability and Endurance Test,” a race of 80 government aircraft across the country scheduled to commence on October 8th. There was a catch, however—Cheyenne had no airfield. With just two weeks until the event, the community, led by organizations like the Rotary, Red Cross, and YMCA, joined forces to create a makeshift airstrip, O’Neil Field (later Wales Field). The field was later recognized as one of the finest in the country, marking a proud moment in Cheyenne’s aviation history and showcasing the strength of its community.

📷: Wyoming State Archives

Do you have memories of the Cheyenne Airport Terminal? We'd love to hear your stories! Share your photos and experiences with us and be part of preserving our shared history.



📷: Wyoming State Archives

The Wyoming Aviation Festival is almost here! Don't miss the chance to explore the historic Cheyenne Airport Terminal and experience the Commemorative Air Force’s vintage fleet. See you from August 14-18!



Commemorative Air Force B29 B24 Squadron

Your voice matters! Share your ideas and support for the future of the Cheyenne Airport Terminal during the Wyoming Aviation Festival. Together, we can create a vibrant arts and culture hub.

Mark your calendars! From August 14-18, get up close and personal with historic WWII aircraft and experience the rich history of the Cheyenne Airport Terminal.



Wyoming Aviation Heritage League

We're on a mission to repurpose the historic Cheyenne Airport Terminal into a vibrant Arts and Aviation Center. Your support is crucial! Join us at the Wyoming Aviation Festival to learn about our vision and how you can help preserve this iconic structure.



🎨: Bria Hammock

Our 1960 Cheyenne Airport Terminal is not just a building; with its wing-like roof and canted glass walls, it's a piece of architectural brilliance. Learn about its design and historical significance during the Wyoming Aviation Festival. ✈



📷: Wyoming State Archives

Did you know that the Cheyenne Airport Terminal, built in 1960, played a pivotal role in the golden age of aviation? Designed by Robert William Postin, its iconic architecture symbolizes the era's aviation advancements. Join us at the Wyoming Aviation Festival from August 14-18 to explore this historic gem and support its preservation!



📸: Wyoming State Archives