[Complete Set of Gulf Refining Company Aviation Atlases]

Mapping rapid changes in aviation across the 1930s.

This fascinating group of five aviation atlases (1st – 5th editions) was compiled and published by Rand McNally and distributed by the Gulf Refining Company between 1930 and 1937. Each stapled booklet contains between 16-24 pages; with photos of famous aviators, flying machines (airplanes, gyros, and dirigibles), a chronological review of aviation history, double page map of historical flights, charts and diagrams showing the aviation development of various countries, and single page maps of national air transport routes included within.

Of particular interest is the five-year progression of a diagram titled ‘The United States Grows Small by Air Hours’, which shows the relative size of America based on speeds offered by Air Mail vs. Regular (Railroad) Mail. Later issues include details on government navigational aids, aviation records, and views of American airports. Advertisements for Gulf Oil products and travel services can also be seen throughout.

An intriguing and detailed catalog of the formative years of commercial aviation, with an emphasis on the United States but encompassing the entire world.

Source: Smithsonian Institute;