Vintage 1911 Aviation Meet Postcard – Edward H. Mitchell, Biplane & Balloon, National City California Postmark

This early aviation postcard captures the excitement of an Aviation Meet in the United States, postmarked 1911. The image shows a dramatic scene with a pioneering pusher biplane in flight, a large crowd of spectators in the grandstands, and a hot-air balloon ascending in the background. These events were major public spectacles during the pioneering years of flight, often featuring demonstrations by early aviators alongside balloon ascensions.

The postcard was published by Edward H. Mitchell, San Francisco, one of the most prolific American postcard publishers of the early 20th century. Titled “2304 – Aviation Meet,” the card is hand-tinted, enhancing the vibrant details of the planes, balloon, and cheering spectators.

Postmarked National City, California, June 14, 1911, with a green one-cent George Washington stamp, this card is both a collectible piece of aviation history and a snapshot of the golden age of public fascination with flight.

Historical Context:

• Aviation meets were among the first large-scale public exhibitions of flying machines, held across the U.S. after the Wright brothers’ successes.

• Crowds gathered to witness daring demonstrations of fragile aircraft, often combined with ballooning to celebrate the spirit of flight.

• Edward H. Mitchell postcards are sought after by collectors for their detailed printing and vibrant hand coloring.

Condition:

• Good condition with light corner wear.

• Postmarked and written, stamp intact.

• Strong coloration, typical of Mitchell’s lithographic process.