50Morristown, N J.-About 4 miles
north of course.Identified by group of yellow buildings east of the city.
The Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad pass the eastern side of
Morristown.
60. Lake Hopatcong-- -A large
irregular lake 10 miles north of course
64. Budd Lake.--Large circular body of
water 6 miles north of course.
78. 78. Belvidere, N. J.-On the
Delaware Rv. Twelve miles to the north is the Delaware Water Gap and 11 miles to the south is Easton at
the junction of the Lehigh and Delaware Rivers. The Delaware makes a
pronounced U--shaped bend just
north of Belvidere. A railway
joins the two ends of the U
1111111. Lehighton, Pa.---Directly on course.
The Lehigh Valley and Central Railroad of N.J. running parallel pass three miles through Lehighton. The Lehigh
River runs between the railroads at this point. Lehighton is approximately
half way between Hazelhurst and Bellefonte. A fair sized elliptical race
track lies just southwest of town but a larger and better emergency
landing field lies about 100 yards west of the race track. The field is very
long and lies in a north south direction.
114.
Mauch Chunk.-Three miles
north of Lehighton and on the direct course.
121.
Central Railroad of New
Jersey.-Two long triangular bodies of water northwest of the railroad
followed by eight or nine
small artificial lakes or ponds about half a mile apart almost parallel
with the course but veering slightly to the south.
148.
Catawissa Mountain
Range, which appears to curve in a semicircle about a large open space
of country directly on the course. To the north of the course may be seen
the eastern branch of the Susquehanna. Fly parallel to this until Shamokin
Creek is picked up. This Creek is very black and is paralleled by two
railroads. Shamokin Creek empties into the Susquehanna just below
Sunbury.
168.
Sunbury, Pa.-At the
junction of the two branches of the Susquehanna River. The infield of a race track on a small island at
the junction of two rivers furnishes a good landing field. The river to
the south of Sunbury is wider than to the north and is filled with
numerous small islands. The two branches to the north have practically no
islands. If the river is reached and Sunbury is not in sight look for
islands. If there none, follow the river south to Sunbury. If islands are
numerous, follow the river north to Sunbury.
170.
Lewisburg, Pa.-Two miles
west of Sunbury and 8 miles north.
174
After leaving Sunbury the next landmark to pick up is Penns Creek.
Which empties into the Susquehanna 7 miles south of Sunbury. Flying
directly on course. Penns Creek is reached 6 miles after it joins the
Susquehanna 7 miles south of sunbury.
178.
New Berlin,-Identified
by covered bridge over Penns Creek.
185.
The Pennsylvania
Railroad from Lewisburg is crossed at the point where the range of
mountains coming up from the southwest ends. The highway leaves the
railroad here and goes up into Woodward Pass, directly on the course, A
white fire tower may be seen on the crest of the last mountain to the
north on leaving the pass.
202.
The next range of mountains is crossed through the pass at Millheim, a small
town. A lone mountain may be seen to the south just across the
Pennsylvania tracks.
217.
Bellefonte, Pa.-After
crossing another mountain range with a pass Bellefonte will be seen
against the Bald Eagle Mountain Range. On top of a mountain, just south of
a gap is the Bald Eagle Range
at Bellefonte, may be seen a clearing with a few trees scattered in it.
This identifies this gap from others in this range. The mail field lies
just east of town and is marked by a large white circle. A white line
marks the eastern edge of the field where there is a drop of nearly 100
feet.
BELLEFONTE TO
CLEVELAND.
Miles
0. Bellefonte.-Compass course to
Cleveland approximately 3100. Fly
directly toward and over bare spot on mountain top south of gap in Bald
Eagle Range. First range of mountains.
3. Pennsylvania Railroad, following
course of Bald Eagle Creek.
17. New York Central Railroad,
following course of Moshannon Creek.
35. Clearfield, Pa.-On west branch of
Susquehanna River. A small race track here serves as an emergency
landing field. Two railroads, one from the north and one from the east,
enter Clearfield and both go south from here.
55. B. & M. Junction.-One branch
of the Buffalo, Rochelle & Pittsburgh from the east forms a junction
here with the N. & S. line of the Buffalo. Rochelle & Pittsburgh
Railroad. Dubois is 2 miles north of course on the N. & S. line of the
railroad.
70. Brookville.-One mile north of
course, west of city, is 2-mile race track which makes an excellent
emergency field.
86. Clarion.-One mile north of course.
Emergency field marked by white cross and red-brick hangar is here. The
Clarion river passes north edge of city. Railroad from the east ends
here
110.
Franklin, Pa.-Seven
miles north of course at junction of Allegheny River and French Creek.
Cross Allegheny River where there is a pronounced horseshoe bend. This is
due south of Franklin.
122.
Sandy Lake.-Two miles
north of course. Cross the Pennsylvania Railroad at right angles 2 miles
south of sandy Lake.
138. Shenango.-Two miles north of
course. Three railroads enter this town from the north. Two continue south
and one runs east for 3 miles and then turns southeast.
152.
New York Central
Railroad. running north and south. One mile north of course the Erie
crosses the New York Central at right angles. Four miles west of Erie
should be crossed where it turns southward. Eight miles south of course is
Warren. with eight railroads radiating out.
157. Pennsylvania Railroad, running
north and south.
165. Baltimore & Ohio Railroad,
Running diagonally northeast-southwest.
206. Cleveland on Lake Erie,-The mail
field is in East Cleveland between the two railroads that follow the lake
shore. The field is near the edge of the city and near the edge of the
freight yards of the New York Central. The field is distinctly marked by
long cinder runway. The airmail hangar is in the southwest corner of the
field. The Martin factory is in the northwest corner of the
field.
Cleveland to
Bellefonte.
Miles.
0. Cleveland, Ohio,-Fly approximately
1300 compass course.
49. Warren,-Eight miles south of
course with eight railroads radiating out. Three of these railroads are
crossed at 7-mile intervals, the third one turning east where the course
crosses it, and crosses a fourth 5 miles farther on.
58. The junction of the
Erie Railroad and New York Central is about 2 miles north of course. The
Erie from this point where it was crossed. 8 miles north of Warren and 3
miles east. runs eastward in the general direction of the course for about
15 miles.
68. Shenango, Pa.-Two miles north of
course on Shenango River. Three railroads enter Shenango from the north.
two continue south, while one runs east for 3 miles and then southeast.
This railroad should be crossed diagonally St. Kremis Station, 5 miles
east of Shenango.
84. Sandy Lake.-Two miles north of
course. Cross Pennsylvania Railroad at right angles 2 miles south of Sandy
Lake.
96. Franklin, Pa.-Seven miles north of
course at junction of French Creek and Allegheny River. The Allegheny
should be crossed 7 miles south of Franklin. where the river makes a
pronounced horseshoe bend.
There is an emergency landing field at Franklin used by passenger-carrying
outfit. Flying directly on the course the river is crossed four
times.
120.
Clarion, Pa.-One mile
north of course. Emergency field east of city marked by red-brick hangar
with white cross on the roof. Large field. but always soft after
rain.
136. Brookville, Pa.-One mile north of
course. West of city is 2 mile race track that serves as an excellent
emergency landing field.
147. Reynoldsville, Pa.-One mile south
of course on Pennsylvania Railroad. which follows Sandy Lick Creek
from Brookville. The
Pennsylvania crosses the course above Reynoldsville. running in a
north-south direction.
151.
Dubois, Pa.-Three miles
north of course on Buffalo, Rochester & Pittsburgh Railroad. A branch
of the railroad from the east forms the C. & M. Junction directly on
the course. Follow this eastern branch of the railroad for about 5 miles,
as it is directly on course.
171. Clearfield, Pa.-On the west branch
of the Susquehanna River. A small race track here can be used as an
emergency field, although it is rather small. Two railroads one from the
north and one from the east, converge 1 mile east of Clearfield, and
continue southward.
196. Snowshoe Pa,.-Seven miles north of
course. A small race track may be seen here. Halfway between Clearfield
and Bellefonte the course crosses Moshannon Creek. The New York Central
crosses this creek directly on the course. Cross the Bald Eagle Mountain
Range through the pass. and Bellefonte will be seen in the valley
beyond.
206. Bellefonte, Pa.-The field is east
of Bellefonte and is marked by a large white circle. A white line marks
the eastern edge of the field. east of which is a deep ravine.
III.
CLEVELAND TO
CHICAGO
Miles
0.
Martin Field, Cleveland.-Fly a little west of south for nearly 10 miles or
about seven minutes flying and then due west, thus keeping over good
emergency landing fields. The country between Cleveland and Chicago is
divided into sections, section lines running due north and south and east
and west. for the first 15 miles the lake shore is only a few miles north
of the course.
20. Elyria, Ohio.-Five miles north of
course. Five railroads radiate out of Elyria.
37. Vermilion.-Two miles north of
course. On Lake Erie. The New York Central Railroad follows the shore line
of the lake from Vermilion to Sandusky.
55. Sandusky.-Five miles north of the
course on Sandusky Bay, a large irregular body of water crossed by the New
York Central Railroad. Continues due west from this point, following the
east west section lines.
112.
Maumee River, which you
cross about 5 miles northeast of Grand Rapids and 5 miles south of
Waterville. Waterville is on the east bank of the Maumee and Grand Rapids
is on the south bank of the river where it turns east and parallels the
course for 7 miles.
130.
Detroit, Toledo &
Ironton Railroad, crossed at right angles. Wausen is 7 miles north of
the course and Napoleon is 5 miles south, both on the above-mentioned
railroad. By flying 11 miles north from the point where the Maumee River
is crossed and then due west the New York Central four-track railroad will
be picked up just before reaching Bryan.
152.
Bryan, is located on the
south side of the New York Central tracks, where they are crossed by the
Chicago & Western and North Railroads. Landing field with hangar and
T cinder runway is north of town.
Field is two-way, 2,000 feet east and west. Best approach from the
east.
172. Hamilton.-Two miles north of
course and 4 miles north of Bryan. On the extreme south end of
irregular-shaped lake. The Wabash Railroad runs to the south of Hamilton.
By keeping the Wabash Railroad in sight for the next 125 miles, You will
come in sight of Lake Michigan.
III.
CLEVELAND TO
CHICAGO
Miles
0.
Martin Field, Cleveland.-Fly a little west of south for nearly 10 miles or
about seven minutes flying and then due west, thus keeping over good
emergency landing fields. The country between Cleveland and Chicago is
divided into sections, section lines running due north and south and east
and west. for the first 15 miles the lake shore is only a few miles north
of the course.
20. Elyria, Ohio.-Five miles north of
course. Five railroads radiate out of Elyria.
37. Vermilion.-Two miles north of
course. On Lake Erie. The New York Central Railroad follows the shore line
of the lake from Vermilion to Sandusky.
55. Sandusky.-Five miles north of the
course on Sandusky Bay, a large irregular body of water crossed by the New
York Central Railroad. Continues due west from this point, following the
east west section lines.
112.
Maumee River, which you
cross about 5 miles northeast of Grand Rapids and 5 miles south of
Waterville. Waterville is on the east bank of the Maumee and Grand Rapids
is on the south bank of the river where it turns east and parallels the
course for 7 miles.
130.
Detroit, Toledo &
Ironton Railroad, crossed at right angles. Wausen is 7 miles north of
the course and Napoleon is 5 miles south, both on the above-mentioned
railroad. By flying 11 miles north from the point where the Maumee River
is crossed and then due west the New York Central four-track railroad will
be picked up just before reaching Bryan.
152.
Bryan, is located on the
south side of the New York Central tracks, where they are crossed by the
Chicago & Western and North Railroads. Landing field with hangar and
T cinder runway is north of town.
Field is two-way, 2,000 feet east and west. Best approach from the
east.
172. Hamilton.-Two miles north of
course and 4 miles north of Bryan. On the extreme south end of
irregular-shaped lake. The Wabash Railroad runs to the south of Hamilton.
By keeping the Wabash Railroad in sight for the next 125 miles, You will
come in sight of Lake Michigan.
196. Walcottville,-At the intersection
of the Wabash and Grand Rapids & Indiana Railroads.
220.
Goshen, Ind.-Three miles
north of course. The Chicago & St. Louis Railroad is crossed at right
angles 3 miles south and 1 mile east of Goshen.
243.
South Bend, Ind.-Seven
miles north of course. The Chicago & st. Louis Railroad is crossed at
right angles 7 miles south of South Bend.
265.
La Port, Ind.-One mile
north of course. The New York Central Railroad running east from La Porte
Parallels the course to the lower edge of Lake Michigan.
289.
Crisman, Ind.-Coaling
station with large black coal chute north side of track; has also large
race track with course 31/2
miles north and 11/2
miles east. Baltimore &
Ohio Railroad crosses Wabash at Crisman. Leaving Crisman fly westerly,
following shore of the lake, but keeping about 10 miles from the waters
edge to insure safe emergency landing.
314.
Lake Calumet.-Largest
and most westerly of three lakes. From northern extremity of Lake Calumet
fly northwest on compass course of 3150. Ashburn
Field comes into view to the west and a large gas reservoir to the east. A
large drainage canal will be seen ahead. To your left, where the Des
Plains River enters the drainage canal, the canal makes a 450 turn to the
south. Following the Des Plaines River for about 10 miles you will see a
large hospital and old race track. This is the speedway and adjoins the
air-mail field on the west.
330.
Chicago air-mail field or
Checkerboard field,-Three large air-mail hangars in southwest corner
of field and private hangar in northeast corner. Four-way field, but best
approach from the south. Telephone and high-tension wires to west and
wires and trees to east of field. Land on large cinder runways.
Sewage-disposal plant with excavations on west side of field. Landing area
of this field large and ample. Telegraph and post-office address of this
is Maywood, Ill. Field is 14 miles west of Chicago post office.
IV.
CHICAGO TO
OMAHA.
Miles
0. Maywood Ill.-Checkerboard field.
Fly directly west, picking up the third railroad to the north of the
field. This is the Chicago & North Western. By keeping on the section
lines and flying directly west this railroad can be kept in sight at all
time until Iowa City is reached. It has white ballast and is
double-tracked.
14. Wheaton.-Directly on course.Town
rests in elongated U formed
by Chicago & North Western Railroad. Water tower serves as a
landmark.
24. Geneva on the Fox River.-One mile
north of course. Two branches of the Chicago & North Western cross
each other here at right angles.
84. Dixon.-Three miles north of course
on Rock River.
96. Twin Cities of Stirling and Rock
Falls.-One on each side of the Rock River.
130. Mississippi River.-The Mississippi
River should be crossed about 6 miles below Clinton, Iowa. which is on the
west bank of the Mississippi. Flying in the same direction, the
Wapsipinacan River will show up soon after crossing the Mississippi. The
Wapsipinacan empties into the Mississippi a few miles south of the course.
Fly in the same general direction with the river in view for 24 miles. The
Chicago Rock Island & Pacific runs in the same general direction as
the river and is never more than 3 miles from it until Dixon Iowa, is
reached.
154.
Dixon, Iowa.-One mile
north of the course and 1 mile west of the Wapsipinacan River, which turns
north at this point. Dixon lies between the Chicago Rock Island &
Pacific and the C. N. W. & St. P.. which crosses about 1 mile east of
Dixon.
173.
Tipton, Iowa.-Five miles
north of course. Soon after Tipton is reached, Cedar Rapids will be
crossed. The Cedar River flows southeast at this point.
191.
Iowa City Iowa.-On the
eastern bank of the Iowa River. The Chicago Rock Island & Pacific has
four lines running out of Iowa City. The air-mail field is south of town
and on the western bank of the river. The field is small and is longer
east and west.
215.
Chicago, Milwaukee & St.
Paul Railway.
233.
Chicago & North Western
Railway.
240. Montezuma.-Directly on course on
Minneapolis & St. Louis Railway.
249. Minneapolis & St. Louis
Railway.
253. Minneapolis & St. Louis.
Railway-Short Line.
255. Minneapolis & St. Louis
Railway.
271.
Monroe.-Slightly south
of course on Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad. Three lines out
of this town.
296.
Des Moines.-Five miles
north of course. Largest city near course between Iowa City and Omaha.
Keep the Raccoon River in sight until about 18 miles out. From here on
keep the Chicago, Rock Island & pacific in sight. this Railroad
follows the direction of the
Raccoon River for this distance. The Chicago, Rock Island &
Pacific is 2 to 7 miles north of the course.
368.
Atlantic, Iowa.-Three
miles north of the course on the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific
Railway. At Atlantic the railroads branch in five directions. If on the
course at this point, that is , 3 miles south of Atlantic, fly nearly due
west until Council Bluffs is seen.
413.
Council Bluffs
Iowa.-Five miles east of the Missouri River.
418.
Missouri River, which is
very irregular in its course and width at this point.
424.
Omaha, Nebr.-Field is
west of city and can be identified by large hangar with white circle and
cross on roof. North of field is large race track and grandstand. There
are two good approaches, from north and west.
OMAHA TO
CHEYENNE.
Miles
0. Omaha, Nebr.-The air mail field is
on the western outskirts of the city, and is 5 miles west of the Missouri
River. The field is rectangular, the long way of the rectangle being east
and west. On the north side of the field is a long grand stand facing
northward and extending east and west. To the north of the grandstand is a
large field with an elliptical race track in it. This race track is an
excellent landmark, and the oval may be used for landing if necessary. The
west side of the mail field is bounded by a brook, a few trees and a
railroad track. On the south the field is bounded by a paved road which
ends to the eastward at the Missouri River. This same road runs due west
for several miles beyond the mail field. On the south side of the field
are some tall trees and a few telephone poles. A private hangar is
situated across the road from the air mail field with the word "Airdrome" painted
on the roof. The air mail hangar is located in the southeast corner of the
field. The east side of the field is bounded by two steel wireless towers
and a hill covered with tall trees. From the northwest is the best
approach, although landing can be made from any direction if made into the
wind.
20. The Platte River.-Is crossed at
right angles by flying due west from the Omaha field. By noting section
lines the pilot can determine the correct compass course correcting for
drift, as North Platte and Cheyenne are almost due west of Omaha. For a
distance of 70 miles the Platte River is north of the course never at a
greater distance than 10 miles. The Platte River should be crossed between
two bridges, one 2 miles north and the other 2 miles south of course.
21. Yutan.-Directly on the course 1
mile west of the Platte River, 5 lines of railroads form a junction at
this point.
33. Wahoo.-A fair sized town 3 miles
south of the course. Six railroads radiate from Wahoo. An excellent
emergency landing field is located one-half mile south of Wahoo; a smooth
barley field approximately 1 mile long and a quarter of a mile wide. By
noting section lines and flying 25 miles west for each mile south, a
direct course may be maintained.
59.
David City.-A quarter of
a mile north of the course. Six railroads
radiate from this city also.
82. Osceola.-Four miles south of the
course. The Union Pacific tracks almost parallel the course from David
City to Osceola, where they turn to the southward. Osceola may be
identified by a mile race track just south of the town.
96. The Platte River is crossed again
and runs southwestward. The Union Pacific Railroad is crossed just beyond
the Platte River a half a mile north of the small town of Clarks. Twelve
miles southwest is Central City on the Union Pacific Railroad. This city
is 7 miles south of the course. Central city is directly east of North
Platte. If the pilot passes directly over the city, the east-west section
lines can be followed directly into North Platte. Thirty-five miles
southwest of Clarks Island is a direct line with Central City. Grand
Island is 20 miles south of the course. At Grand Island there is a
commercial flying field where supplies of oil and gas may be
purchased.
132.
St. Paul, directly on the
course.-Ten miles east of St. Paul one branch of Chicago Burlington
& Quincy Railroad runs directly west to St. Paul and lies on the
course. Five railroads radiate out of St. Paul. The Middle Loop River is
crossed 1 mile east of St.
Paul.
161.
Loop City.-Is 5 miles
north of course on the east bank of Middle Loup River, which is crossed
almost due south of Loup City. The Union Pacific Railroad paralleling the
river is crossed 1 mile east of the river.
176.
The Chicago, Burlington
& Quincey Railroad tracks following a tiny stream are crossed. The
railroad runs northwest-southeast at this point.
183.
Mason City.-On the
Chicago. Burlington & Quincy Railroad; is two miles north of the
course.
216.
The Union Pacific
Railroad, running northeast. southwest. is crossed midway between Lodi
and Oconto: Lodi to the north and Oconto to the south. A small creek runs
through Oconto which distinguishes it from Lodi.
248.
North Plate.-After
crossing the Union Pacific Railroad no distinguishing landmarks are
available. but flying west the Platte River will be seen to the south.
gradually getting nearer to the course. The city of North Platte is
located at the junction of the north and south branches of the Platte
River. The field is located on the east bank of the north branch about
21/2 miles east of the town. just 100 yards south of
Lincoln Highway Bridge. Another bridge, the Union Pacific Railroad bridge,
crosses the stream a mile further north. The field is triangular with the
hangar at the apex of the triangle and on the bank of the river. The
field, which is bounded on the southwest by the river bank and on the
north side by a ditch, has an excellent turf covered surface always in a
dry condition. The field is longer east and west and best approached is
from the end away from the hangar. Cross field landings should not be
attempted near the hangar, as the field is narrow at this point. The
altitude of North Platte is 2,800 feet or about 2,000 feet higher than the
Omaha field.
298. Ogallala.-The south branch of the
Platte River parallels the course to this point and the north branch is
only a mile a or two north of the course, veering gradually to the
northward. The double track of the Union Pacific Railroad follow the
course to this point. Fly directly west from this point, the south branch
of the Platte River and the Union Pacific Railroad, veering
southward.
338. Chappell.-Two miles south of the
course on the Union Pacific tracks and on the north bank of the Lodgepole Creek.
342. Lodgepole.-Directly on the course
between the Union Pacific Railroad and Lodgepole Creek. From here on to
Sidney the course lies over the Union Pacific Railroad tracks and
Lodgepole Creek.
360.
Sidney.-The Union
Pacific double track runs
through here east and west. crossed at right angles by the Chicago,
Burlington & Quincy railroad running north and south. Two miles west
of Sidney the Union Pacific double track veers to the north, following the
course of the Lodgepole Creek.. The course due west. lies from 4 to 6
miles south of the railroad and creek for the next 60 miles.
395.
Kimball.-Five miles
north of the course on the Union Pacific Railroad and Lodgepole
Creek.
420.
Pine Bluff.-On the Union
Pacific Railroad 2 miles north of the course The railroad and creek again
cross the course, the railroad turning west to Cheyenne and the creek,
continuing south for 4 miles and then eastward. The country between Sidney
and Pine Bluff is the roughest on the whole course from Omaha to Cheyenne.
but plenty of emergency fields are found. A ridge extends southward from
Pine Bluff, on which numerous dark green trees may be seen. Two miles
southwest of Pine Bluff the Union Pacific tracks are crossed and for 5
miles lie south of the course. Then another intersection of the course and
the railroad looping to the northward and again crossing the course at the
small town of Archer.
499. Archer.-A small town on the Union
Pacific Railroad and 8 miles from Cheyenne.
458. Cheyenne.-Can be identified by the
barracks of Ft Russell. The Cheyenne field is three-quarters of a mile due
north of the town and due north of the capitol building, whose gilded dome
is unmistakable. The field though rolling is very large and landing may be
made from any direction. A pilot landing here for the first time must
"watch his step", as the rarified atmosphere at this altitude (6,000 feet)
makes rough landings the rule rather than the exception.
CHEYENNE TO SALT
LAKE.
Two descriptions are given of this
route from Cheyenne to Rock Springs, the following being the shorter:
Miles.
0. Cheyenne.-A white hanger. small
white office building, and the wireless towers are on the southwest corner
of the field. Field is extensive and the surface is hard. Fly over Ft.
Russell and follow the Colorado & Southern tracks to Federal.
12. Federal.-The first town on the
Colorado & Southern tracks after it makes a sharp bend to the north.
From here almost directly west will
be seen black irregular peaks in the Laramie Mountains. Fly over
the mountains just to the north of these peaks. This will bring you into
the Laramie Valley about due east of Laramie.
40. Laramie.-Is the largest town in
the valley. Landing fields abound throughout the valley.
61. Sheep Mountains.-The flat top of
these mountains resembles a huddled-up bunch of sheep. A short range about
10 miles long. Pass to the north of the mountains and fly due west over
the Medicine Bow Range.
77. Medicine Bow Range.-Extending
north and south. Cross this range at right angles and you come out in the
valley of the North Platte River. Landing fields abound throughout this
valley. To the west may be seen the Sierra Madre Range. Identified by high
white peaks, with the range extending southeast-northwest. Pass to the
north of the mountains part of this range where the rounded hills are
covered with dense pine forests. From here fly about 70 north of west.
compass course. You will pass over a rather high and dry plateau cut up by
irregular canyons, but with a number of landing fields that can be reached
from an 8,000 foot altitude. Continue westward, veering to the north until
the tracks of the Union Pacific Railroad are seen to the north. Cross the
Union Pacific tracks to the north if Black Buttes. a small town on the
Union Pacific. ahead will be seen an irregular butte known as Black Butte.
Pass to the north of this and the Aspen Mountains will be seen to the
southwest and the Table Mountain Range to
the west and a little to the north. The top of Table Mountain Range
is almost flat with the exception of Pilot Butte. This is a symmetrical,
flat top butte on the top of the range. Fly directly toward the Pilot
Butte. This will take you over a dry sandy valley across the Union Pacific
tracks near Baxter over a low range of hills to the Rock Springs landing
field.
The following description does not follow the direct course and is
about 10 miles farther than the route described previously. The country
over this course is better suited for forced landings, and in case of a
forced landing the pilot is nearer human habitation.
Miles.
0. Cheyenne.-Fly west or to the north
of Fort Russell, which is about 4 miles from town, following the Colorado
& Southern tracks to the point where they bend sharply to the
north.
12. Federal.-The first town on the
Colorado & Southern Railroad after the rail makes a sharp bend to the
north. Fly about 6 miles south of Federal and leave the Colorado &
Southern tracks about 1 mile north of the pronounced bend. The compass
course, when there is no cross wind, is about3100 . Cross
Sherman Hills or Laramie
Mountains at about 9,000 feet above sea level. Crossing the range of
mountains the Laramie appears. where landing fields abound.
40. Laramie.-On the Union Pacific
double track railroad. The largest town in the valley. Pass 6 miles to the
north of Laramie.
60. Rock River.-On the Union Pacific,
20 miles north of the course. The double track Union Pacific passes
through 2 miles of snow sheds at this point.
80. Elk Mountain.-To the north of
Medicine Bow Range, a black and white range of mountains, the black part
of which are forests and the white snow covered rocks. Elk Mountain is
12,500 feet high. Fly to the north of the conspicuous mountain over high,
rough country. The Union Pacific tracks will be seen about 25 miles to the
north gradually converging with the course.
114.
Walcott.-Cross the S.
& E. Railroad 2 miles south of Walcott.. The S.& E. joins the
Union Pacific at this point.
134.
Rawlins.-Follow the
general direction of the Union Pacific tracks to Rawlins, which is on the
Union Pacific tracks. The country between Walcott and Rawlins is fairly
level , but covered with sage brush, which makes landing dangerous.
Rawlins is on the north side of the Union Pacific tracks at a point about
a mile east of where the tracks cut through a low ridge of hills. Large
railroad shops distinguish the town. The emergency field provided here
lies about 11/4 miles northeast of town at the base of a large
hill. Landings are made almost invariably to the west. Surface of the
field is fairly good, as the sage brush has been removed. Easily
identified by this, as the surrounding country is covered with sage brush.
Landings can be made in any direction into the wind if care is exercised.
Several ranch buildings and two small black shacks on the eastern side of
the field help distinguish it. Leaving Rawlins follow the Union Pacific
tracks to Creston.
159.
Creston.-A small station
the Union Pacific is the point where the course crosses the continental
divide.
175. Wamsutter.-On the Union Pacific.
Fairly good fields are found between Rawlins and a point 60 miles west.
Fields safe to land in show up on account of the absence of sage brush.
The course leaves the railroad where the Union Pacific tracks loop to the
southeast.
215.
Black Butte.-A large
black hill of rock south of the course. The Union Pacific Railroad is
crossed just before reaching Black Butte.
231.
Rock Springs.-After
Passing Black Butte, Pilot Butte will be seen projecting above and forming
a part of the Table Mountain Range. This butte is of whitish stone. Head
directly toward Pilot Butte and Rock Springs will be passed on the
northern side. The field is in the valley at the foot of Pilot Butte about
4 miles from Rock Springs. It is triangular in shape, the hangar being
located in the apex. The surface of the field is good. The best approach
is from the eastern side.
246.
Green River.-Follow the
Union Pacific double-tracked railroad from Rock Springs. There is an
emergency field here which is distinguished account of its being the only
cleared space of its size, near town. Green River is crossed immediately
after the city of Green River is passed. Here the course leaves the
railroad which continues in a northwesterly direction. By flying
approximately 2300 compass course from here. Cheyenne will be
reached.
258.
Black Fork River.-A very
irregular river. which is crossed at right angles. From Black Fork to
Coalville the Union Pacific tracks are from 5 to 20 miles north of the
course.
282. Granger.-16 miles north of the
course on the Union Pacific where the Oregon Short Line joins the Union
Pacific from the north.
330. Altamont.-On the Union Pacific
where the Union Pacific approaches within 6 miles of the course to the
north. The railroad passes through a short tunnel at this point.
338. Evanston.-After approaching within
6 miles of the course, the railroad turns sharply to the northwest.
Evanston is on the Union Pacific 18 miles north of course. There is a good
emergency landing field on the southwest side of Evanston, a mile from the railroad
station. From Evanston the Union Pacific tracks curve toward the course
until Coalville is reached.
363. Coalville.-On the single track
Union Pacific running north and south. The single track Union Pacific
joins the double track 4 miles north of Coalville at Echo City. There is
an emergency landing field here a mile east of the railroad and a half
mile southeast of town. there is a marker on this field.
381.
Salt Lake City.-From
Coalville the country is extremely rugged and the pilot should maintain at
least 11,000 feet altitude above sea level. The field lies 2 miles west of
the city on the north side of the road or street which extends east-west
by the Salt Lake fair grounds. Locate the fair grounds, identified by an
elliptical race track and large buildings. Follow westward along the road
just south of the fair grounds and the field will be reached 11/2 miles
further on. The field is about one half-mile long north and south and
landings are usually made in one of these directions. a landing T is used to indicate the proper
place to land. Elevation here is 4,400 feet. High-tension wires border all sides of the field
except the north.
SALT LAKE CITY TO
RENO.
Miles.
0. Salt Lake City.-Fly west from Salt
Lake, keeping the two railroads running due west from Salt Lake to the
south.
12. Saltair.-Near the salt works there
is an open field which is possible for an emergency landing. The field
lies between the highway and the electric railroad that runs into Salt
Lake City. Is rolling and covered sparsely with sagebrush and should be
used only in case of absolute emergency.
14. Antelope Island.-In the Great Salt
Lake. 6 miles north of the course.
30. Stansbury Island.-In the Great
Salt Lake. The course crosses island about 2 miles from the southern
edge.
45. The Union Pacific Railroad is
crossed where it runs northeast-southwest. Two miles north of the course
the railroad makes a sharp bend and runs southeast-northwest.
50. The Union Pacific Railroad. is
crossed again. The Union Pacific continues southeastward from here for 10
miles and then turns westward and parallels the course to Wendover.
The course is 6 miles north
of the railroad.
98. Salduro.-On the Union Pacific
Railroad. 6 miles south of the course. There is an emergency field here in
vat No. 5, marked by a black T. The vat is circular. 400 feet
in diameter and the bottom, composed of white salt, is hard as a pavement.
108. Wendover.-On the Union Pacific, 6
miles south of the course. Opposite the Conley Hotel and the Union Pacific
station there is a landing field L shaped, 1,200 feet long each
way and 600 feet wide, a good emergency field. Four miles west of Wendover
the Union Pacific Railroad turns to the north and east and is crossed 8
miles west of Wendover. The railroad continues northwestward and reaches a
northern point 11 miles from the course. The railroad curves and runs
southeast, where it crosses the Nevada Northern. running north-south at
Shafter.
130.
Shafter.-At the junction
of the Nevada Northern and Western Pacific Railroads. Opposite the Western
Pacific station at Shafter there is a stretch of ground 1,200 feet wide
and unlimited in extent the long way, may be used for emergency landings.
There is a scattering of sagebrush on this field.
145.
The Western Pacific Railroad
is crossed, running
northwest-southeast, after it makes a loop to the south just beyond
Shafter. The railroad veers to the north until it is 20 miles north of the
course.
157.
Snow Water Lake.-An
oblong body of water 3 miles south of the course. The long way of the lake
extends parallel to the course.
170.
Secret Pas-in the Humboldt
Range.-The only pass in this range for many miles. Some peaks in this
range attain an altitude of more than 12,000 feet. The northern extremity
of the Ruby Range extending north and south lies a few miles south of the
course and is next seen. Then three branches of Tamoville Creek flowing
north to the east fork of the Humboldt River are crossed at short
intervals. The Southern Pacific and Western Pacific Railroads follow the
course of the east fork of the Humboldt River and gradually converge on
the course where all four join at Elko.
204.
Elko.-Lies in the
Humboldt Valley. The air mail field is 1 mile west of the city, with the
main runway east and west. Landings may be made from any direction ,
although it is advisable to land east and west. There is a ditch at the
east end of the field. Following the general direction of the railroad
tracks out of Elko, as they run parallel with the course for several
miles.
224.
Carlin.-Between the
Western Pacific and the Southern Pacific Railroad tracks, 1 mile south of
the course.
238.
Harney.-Six miles south
of the course, midway between the cities of Palisade and Beowawe on the
Southern Pacific and western Pacific Railroads. South of the railroad
tracks here is an emergency field 1,500 by 900 feet, with a shallow ditch
in the center running across. Landing can be made safely across the ditch.
There is a ranch house in one corner of the field. A narrow gauge railroad
runs south from Palisade, a town 7 miles east of Harney.
246.
The course crosses the Western Pacific and Southern Pacific
Railroad tracks. Up to this time the railroad tracks have been on the
south of the course, but from now on the two railroads are to the
north.
268.
Battle Mountain.-At the
junction of the Southern Pacific and the Nevada Central Railroads, 8 miles
north of the course. Battle Mountain lies in a valley surrounded on the
east and west by high ranges. Here will be found an excellent landing
field laid out in the form of an ellipse, marked with a T and a wind indicator. The field
lies directly west of town. All types of supplies for service may be found
here. From this point the railroads turn north and west and leave the
course almost at right angles.
278.
The Nevada Central
Railroad is crossed 12
miles southwest of Battle Mountain. From here on the next 100 miles the
course lies over uninhabited and desert country.
293.
Alkali Lake.-Lies on the
northern edge of the course.
363.
Humboldt Lake.-The
course adjoins the southern edge of this lake and crosses the Southern
Pacific Railroad 5 miles beyond. If the elects to not fly the direct
course, the Southern Pacific Railroad may be followed from Battle Mountain
to Winnemucca, a distance of approximately 60 miles. At Winnemucca is an
emergency field south of town, marked by a wind indicator and a T . Supplies necessary for
reservicing a ship may be obtained here. At this point the Western Pacific
continues on in a westward direction, while the Southern Pacific turns to
the southwest. Following the Southern Pacific for 30 miles to the small
town of Imlay will be reached. There is open unobstructed land on all
sides of this town, suitable for emergency landings. Forty miles further
on will be found the city of Lovelocks. A first class landing field is
situated here on the eastern edge of the Southern Pacific tracks just
south of town. A permanent T
has been placed on the field
and a rolled runway constructed. Gas and oil may be obtained from
the Standard Oil plant on the edge of the field, and at a near-by
fertilizer plant there is a fully equipped machine shop which is offered
for the use of any pilot who may need to make repairs to his ship. This
field is level and is kept up in good shape. Pilots coming in must hold
the ship up with the gun until they pass over a series of irrigation
ditches at the end of the field. After these ditches have been passed a
landing may be made. Numerous emergency landing fields may be found all
the way between Winnemucca and Lovelocks. Twenty-five miles farther on the
Southern Pacific joins the course 5 miles east of the southern edge of
Humboldt Lake, into which the Humboldt River empties. To the south of Lake
Humboldt is Carson Sink, which has a dry sandy bottom throughout the year
and offers an ideal landing ground, but is uninhabited and pilots can not
receive assistance except along the railroad. By following the Southern
Pacific Railroad from Humboldt Lake southward for 25 miles, Hazen, Nev.,
will be reached.
388.
Hazen, Nev.-Fourteen
miles south of the course on the Southern Pacific Railroad. Four branches
of the railroad radiate out of Hazen. All about the town there are open
fields of sufficient size to set down an airplane. The best landing field
is to the south and east of the Southern Pacific roundhouse and is a space
a mile long and half mile wide. Sage brush grows on the eastern portion of
the field and the southern end is bound by a set of high-tension wires. A
40- foot T marks the field. If
the pilot has flown as far south as Hazen he can follow the Southern
Pacific westward into Reno. If he is on the direct course. he will cross
the north branch of the Southern Pacific 7 miles north of where it joins
the east-west main line at Fernley. Twelve miles to the north Pyramid Lake
can be seen.
437.
Reno, Nev.-The air mail
field at Reno lies 2 miles west of the city. The main runway lies east and
west. The field is marked by a T and wind indicator. and landing
from four ways is unobstructed. Reno is 4,497 feet above sea level.
Whenever possible it is advisable to leave the Reno field on the east-west
runway, taking off to the east. A slight downgrade enables the ship to
quickly obtain flying speed. Just beyond the east edge of the field the
ground is extremely and there is a huge ditch here.
RENO TO SAN
FRANCISCO.
Miles
0. Leaving the
Reno field the pilot should head his ship southwest and gain altitude of
at least 10,000 feet to pass safely over the Sierras. Practically all of
this altitude should be obtained near the field before starting on the
course.
20. Lake Tahoe.-The northern edge of
Lake Tahoe is 6 miles south of the course.
25. Truckee.-On the Southern Pacific
near the point where Lake Tahoe Railway joins the Southern Pacific from
the south. Two and a half miles to the northwest of the Truckee lies a
very good summertime emergency landing field. All approaches are clear and
a space available for landing 600 by 2,000 feet. A big boulder painted
white stands on the northwest side of the field and beside it is a white
wind indicator. This field is to be avoided in winter, as snow gathers on
it to a frequent depth of 4 feet. Soon after passing Turckee the Sierras
are crossed. On the direct course 10,000 feet will clear the highest peak.
but an altitude of 15,000 feet should be maintained. The Southern Pacific
Railroad tracks veer to the west and north and from here on to Sacramento
are at a varying distance of 5 to 20 miles north and west of the
course.
65. Colfax.-Seventeen miles northwest
of the course on the Southern Pacific Railroad. Elevation here is 2,422
feet. A small level field lies one-half mile south of the city. The field
should be used only in an emergency. as it is difficult to get into and
during the rainy season is very soft. The field is 600 by 300 feet.
85. Shingle Springs.-Seven miles south
and east of the course, on the Placerville Branch of the Southern Pacific
that runs from Placerville to Sacramento. There is a field here one-half
mile west of Shingle Springs, bounded on the north by a highway running to
Placerville and on the south by the Southern Pacific tracks. The field is
1,500 yards long north and south and 300 yards wide east and west. The
ground is level hard and smooth. The elevation here is approximately 1,000
feet.
95. The Southern Pacific, Running from
Placerville to Sacramento, is crossed at right angles 1 mile southeast of
where it makes a right-angular bend and approximately parallels the course
for the next 15 miles. The course lies from 1 to 3 miles southeast of the
tracks.
112.
Mather Field.- Is the
Army Air Service station in the Sacramento Valley, equipped like all Air
Service flying fields. It is located to the east of Sacramento and near
the small siding called Mills, 2 miles north and east of the course. A
huge white water tower serves as an excellent landmark as well as the
three lines of buildings on the ground. Three railroads are crossed in a
stretch of less than 10 miles soon after leaving Mather Field. The
Southern Pacific Railroad is to the northeast of the course at a varying
distance of 10 to 15 miles after leaving Mather Field. Southwest of the
course the Sacramento River will be seen soon after crossing the three
railroad tracks at a distance of 5 to 10 miles.
152.
Suison Bay.-Into which
the Sacramento River empties, a large oblong body of water parallel to the
course. The pilot will fly along the southwest side of the bay.
162. Martinez.- On the southeast corner
of Suison bay. One mile northwest of the course.
177.
Durant Field, Oakland
Calif.- On the eastern side of San Francisco Bay. The field runs
almost due east and west and has a hangar, wind indicator, and T laid out on it. By coming in
from the east over the hangar an unobstructed run of about 2,000 feet is
obtained. North and south the field is rather narrow and somewhat rough.
All supplies necessary for reservicing a ship may be obtained here. From
here fly directly across San Francisco Bay. The course goes directly over
Alcatraz Island, covered with white Government Buildings. Goat Island,
larger than Alcatraz, and more irregularly shaped, on which is located the
Naval Station to be seen to the south.
187.
Marina Field.- Is
stationed on the south of San Francisco Bay, 3 miles from the Golden Gate,
on the east portion of the old fair grounds. It can be identified by the
Palace of Fine Arts Building, which has a large dome roof, at the west end
of the field; a monument 150 feet high, Column of Progress, is on the
north side of the field. The city of San Francisco is to the south. There
is a prevailing southwest
wind here. A double line of wires borders the
eastern edge of the field and this, in conjunction with the gas plant in
the same vicinity, forces the pilot to come in high. The pilot should hold
the ship off until the runway is reached coming in either direction, as
both the east and west edge of the field are very rough. Landing should
not be attempted from any direction other than the east and
west.
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Wyoming First Flight