About Lansing's Historic Ford Hangar

A Rich Heritage

Nestled in the heart of Lansing, the Historic Ford Hangar is not just a venue but a landmark of historical significance. Built with a vision that harkens back to the golden age of aviation, this structure has witnessed the evolution of flight and community over the decades. Today, it stands as a proud emblem of Lansing's rich history, inviting guests to step into a world where history meets modernity.

1923 | Purchase of Land

Ford purchased 1400 acres of farm land in Lansing, Illinois in 1923 to build his airport. Henry Ford wished to connect his Ford Motor Company manufacturing plants in southland Chicago with his factories in Detroit and to produce and display Ford Trimotor airplanes.

1926 | Construction Begins

Renowned architect Albert Kahn, known for his work with Henry Ford, masterminded the innovative design of the hangar. His vision addressed common issues in early hangars, introducing several groundbreaking features that were novel at the time.

1932 | A Switch in Production

Ford stopped making airplanes by July of 1932, and rented the airport land and the hangar to his former airport manager Elmer L. Browne, and later the Hammond aviator Guy W. Amick.

1976 | Village of Lansing Ownership

The Ford Hangar and the airport were acquired by the Village of Lansing in 1976 in order to qualify for federal funding for the Lansing Municipal Airport.

1985 | Historic Designation

The Hangar was established as a historic building on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985. The building continued to serve as a working hangar for a number of different aviation concerns until 2011, when it was vacated for preservation purposes.

2017 | Restoration Efforts

The Village of Lansing began to receive funding for restoration of the Hangar as well as approval to move forward with making the Hangar into the area's premier event venue. Today improvements are continuing to be made for future events.

Book the Space

Celebrating Architectural Heritage: The Lansing Ford Hangar

In the heart of Lansing, Illinois, stands a monument to aviation history and architectural innovation: the Lansing Ford Hangar. This remarkable structure, a testament to the vision of Edsel and Henry Ford and the genius of architect Albert Kahn, is highlighted in an insightful article on the Albert Kahn Legacy website. The hangar, originally part of a grand effort to popularize commercial air service in the early 20th century, represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of aviation infrastructure. Designed with the distinctive flair and functional brilliance characteristic of Kahn's work, the hangar not only served as a crucial node in the burgeoning network of air transport but also as a symbol of the Ford family's commitment to advancing aviation technology and infrastructure.

Read Full Article

Have questions? Contact us or book your event today.

Book Your Event

The Historic Ford Hangar

A Venue for All Occasions

Transformed into a versatile event space, the Historic Ford Hangar now serves as a unique backdrop for a variety of gatherings. From weddings and corporate events to cultural celebrations and community gatherings, the hangar offers a spacious and elegant setting. The blend of historical architecture with contemporary amenities makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a distinctive venue. Our commitment to preserving the hangar’s legacy while catering to modern needs ensures that every event here is imbued with a sense of elegance and history. As we continue to host a diverse array of events, the Historic Ford Hangar not only celebrates its past but also embraces a vibrant future, becoming a part of Lansing's ongoing story.

RiddleRoadPhotography-514