Existing comment:
As early as 1959 it became clear to many who used the Airport that the conditions that were deteriorating and that something needed to be done. The airport itself had slowly been encroached upon and was down to 40 acres with an aging gravel runway and dilapidated buildings. Aviation enthusiasts, historians and other supporters rallied together to preserve this historic airfield and an aging hangar. This "Save the Airport" campaign garnered many supporters including some of the "Early Birds" who had once flown on those hallowed grounds with planes made of wood, wire and cloth. Once again the Airport was the site of Air shows, flying demonstrations & rallies to commemorate the significant events & individuals in aviation history that had somehow been forgotten.
The "Save the Airport" effort paid off thanks to a large group of committed individuals, area residents and pilots who saw the Airport for what it was -- one of a handful of the most significant early aviation sites in the world. In 1973, College Park Airport was purchased by the Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission who committed to operating the airport and preserving it as a historic site.
In 1977, the airport was added to the National Register of Historic Places, officially acknowledging its significance as the "World's Oldest Continually Operating Airport." |