This billboard is publicizing the first all black air show in Los Angeles. The show featured a team of all black female pilots called the “Blackbirds.” William J. Powell, known for his work in and promotion of aviation, was responsible for the event. Photo courtesy Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum
(RAHWAY, NJ) -- The City of Rahway is pleased to announce the opening of Black Wings: American Dreams of Flight at The Gallery Space (1670 Irving Street) in Rahway. This is a powerful exhibition chronicling the story of African Americans who, despite facing tremendous racial barriers, attained amazing achievements in aviation history. This exhibition will be on view at the Gallery Space from February 7 through June 30, 2025.
This exhibition highlights the triumph and determination of individuals who defied convention and broke the color barriers of flight. Two of the many figures presented are early aviators Bessie Coleman and William J. Powell.
Bessie Coleman was the first African American woman to obtain her pilot’s license. She received commendations for her bravery and competence as an aviator. Visionary William J. Powell launched a national campaign promoting aviation to the African American community and ignited excitement for flying among young people.
The extraordinary works of the Tuskegee Airmen caused the black press to publicize not only their achievements, but those of other black servicemen. The press they both received led many to call for the end of racial segregation in American society. Photo courtesy Library of Congress
Other important themes explored include early pioneers in flight, the Golden Age of flight, and the role of the Tuskegee Airmen. The Tuskegee Airmen was the first military division of African American pilots who fought in World War II. The contributions of African Americans in space are also touched upon, including Mae Jemison, the first African American woman to travel to space.
“We take great pride as a city in presenting this exhibition, which honors extraordinary individuals who helped shape aviation history and served our nation with unwavering dedication,” says Rahway Mayor Raymond A. Giacobbe. “Their stories are a testament to resilience and achievement, and we’re proud to share them with our community.”
Black Wings: American Dreams of Flight was organized by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES) in collaboration with the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum. The exhibition was made possible by the generous support of MetLife Foundation.
This exhibition will be on view at the Gallery Space from February 7 through June 30, 2025. It is free to the public. There will be a special reception open to the public on Friday, February 7, 2025, from 5:00pm-8:00pm.
The Gallery Space is located at 1670 Irving Street in Rahway, New Jersey. It is an exhibition space housed in a unique, historic building, which has been a center for culture and learning since its doors first opened in 1864. A small parking lot is located behind the building. Street parking is also available. Gallery hours are as follows: Monday – Wednesday, by appointment, and Thursday - Saturday, 1:00pm-4:00pm. The Gallery Space will be closed on the following holidays: Presidents Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Juneteenth.
SITES has been sharing the wealth of Smithsonian collections and research programs with millions of people outside Washington, D.C., for more than 70 years. SITES connects Americans to their shared cultural heritage through a wide range of exhibitions about art, science, and history, which are shown wherever people live, work and play.
Mae Jemison - The first African American woman to fly in space, Mae C. Jemison served as a science mission specialist on Space Shuttle Endeavor in 1992. Photo courtesy NASA
