June 23, 2005
Grand Central Air Terminal
The Glendale Public Library has put together an excellent interactive website devoted to the history of the former Glendale Grand Central Air Terminal at 1310 Air Way in Glendale. Officially opened on February 22, 1929, the Grand Central Air Terminal was the first airport to offer air service between southern California and New York.
Designed by Henry L. Gogerty in 1928 at what was then the Glendale Airport, the Grand Central Air Terminal was Los Angeles' first official air terminal and quickly became the premier center for air travel in southern California. It was the arrival and departure point for Hollywood's elite - movie stars and business tycoons - as well as such aviation celebrities as Amelia Earhart, Eddie Rickenbacker, Glenn Martin, and Charles Lindbergh.
The Grand Central Air Terminal also played a central role in the developing aircraft industry in southern California. Howard Hughes frequented the facility and built his renowned H-1 Racer in a small building at 911 Air Way; Jack Northrop started his 'Avion Aviation' company at the field; and Major C.C. Moseley operated the Cal-Aero Technical Institute there as well. The latter, in particular, played an important role in the training of pilots and mechanics during World War II.
The Grand Central Air Terminal was the focus of Southern California's air transportation system, and was central to the developing aviation industry that significantly influenced the growth and development of the region. Because of the building's historical significance, preservation advocates have long been concerned about future plans for the structure.
The terminal building (and much of the surrounding area) is currently owned by the Walt Disney Company. Per a formal agreement between the City of Glendale and the Disney Company, the Grand Central Terminal is to be restored (interior/exterior) no later than 2015. Because the Disney Company is under no obligation to restore the structure or list it on the National Register any sooner than 2015, the structure's ongoing maintenance, vandalism, and deterioration due to lack of use have been of particular concern.
Thanks to efforts by the Glendale Historical Society, the Glendale Historic Preservation Commission, and other interested parties, the Disney Company has implemented procedures for monitoring the building's condition and to ensure proper maintenance of its integrity and security until such time as restoration begins. As good stewards, the Walt Disney Company has indicated a willingness to work with the community to preserve this important piece of aviation history.
For a more indepth look at the history of the Glendale Airport and the Grand Central Air Terminal, visit the Glendale Public Library's interactive website at:
http://www.ci.glendale.ca.us/GCATG/index.html
Or visit any of these other online resources:
http://www.godickson.com/gca1.htm
http://www.airfields-freeman.com/CA/Airfields_CA_LA_C.htm#grandcentral
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