103rd Aero Squadron Logbook Collection (Lafayette Escadrille)
Abstract
Two of the most prized possessions in the Museum's collection are a pair of logbooks recording events related to the 103rd Aero Squadron from the First World War. These two logbooks give insight into the thrilling combat stories of the squadron, as well as the more mundane day to day activities of its members.
Dates
- Majority of material found within 1918 - 1919
Conditions Governing Access
The collection is open to research, although some restrictions may apply due to the fragile condition of the logbooks.
Biographical / Historical
Two of the most prized possessions in the Museum's collection are a pair of logbooks recording events related to the 103rd Aero Squadron from the First World War. The 103rd squadron was the first American combat squadron to see action in the War and was initially comprised of 17 pilots from the famed Lafayette Escadrille, the French squadron made up of mostly American volunteers. One of the logbooks contains a record of the flight operations of the squadron, including hours flown and a narrative about each day's activities. Some of these reports, listed as the "Nature of Patrol" are quite interesting and detailed.
The other logbook records more the Squadron's more mundane activities not related to flight, such as the names of new squadron members, or where the 103rd was stationed. This book spans the period when the squadron was formed till when it returned to the United States after the War.
The logbooks were professionally repaired and digitized in 2006. There is some speculation that the logbooks were discovered in a trashcan in Coronado by a collector. The activity logbook was transcribed in 2020 by Steve Ruffin. The logbooks and the transcription can be viewed on Archive.org
Extent
.5 Cubic Feet (This collection contains two original logbooks. Both measures approximately 8.5 x 11 inches and are stored in archivally safe enclosures. They have both been digitized and are stored on the DAMS. The daily activity logbook was transcribed by Steve Ruffin in 2020. The logbooks and the transcription can be viewed on Archive.org )
Language of Materials
English
Immediate Source of Acquisition
The logbooks were purchased by the Museum.
Physical Description
This collection contains two original logbooks. Both measures approximately 8.5 x 11 inches and are stored in archivally safe enclosures. They have both been digitized and are stored on the DAMS.
- Title
- The Descriptive Finding Guide for the 103rd Aero Squadron Logbook Collection (Lafayette Escadrille)
- Author
- AR
- Date
- 2020
- Description rules
- Describing Archives: A Content Standard
- Language of description
- Undetermined
- Script of description
- Code for undetermined script
Repository Details
Part of the San Diego Air and Space Museum Library and Archives Repository
2001 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park
San Diego 92101 USA US
(619) 234-8291
(619) 233-4525 (Fax)