Madera Welcomes D.E. Francis for Historic Aerial Show

On March 29, 1912, Madera experienced a historic moment as hundreds of residents gathered at the city’s baseball park for the first-ever airplane landing and takeoff. The event, which took place early in the morning, was a unique spectacle that drew the community’s attention, despite the absence of the baseball team, the Madera Coyotes, who were not scheduled to play until later in the day.

The star of the day was D.E. Francis, a professional barnstormer known for thrilling audiences across California with his pioneering flights. At that time, Francis was notable for being the only pilot to have successfully transported a passenger across San Francisco Bay by air. His brother, Roy Francis, served as his agent, generating excitement for the flying exhibitions throughout the state.

A Unique Collaboration

The event in Madera was made possible through a partnership between Francis and Ben Preciado, the manager of the Coyotes. Preciado, known for his flair for the extraordinary, reached out to Francis to propose a combined event. The idea was to integrate the aerial exhibition with an upcoming game against Merced, creating a day of entertainment that would captivate local audiences.

The collaboration was strategic, as it not only showcased aviation but also aimed to boost attendance for the baseball game. As the day approached, anticipation grew among Maderans, eager to witness the marvel of flight alongside their beloved sport.

The Day of the Event

As dawn broke on March 29, the baseball park transformed into a hub of excitement. The crowd, gathered well before the scheduled time, buzzed with chatter and enthusiasm. The atmosphere was electric, with families, children, and local enthusiasts eager to witness aviation history in their own backyard.

Once Francis arrived, the preparations began. His aircraft, a marvel of engineering for its time, drew awe from onlookers. With the sun rising overhead, Francis took to the skies, performing aerial maneuvers that left spectators in astonishment. The sight of an airplane soaring above the park was a stark contrast to the familiar baseball games that residents were accustomed to.

The event marked a significant milestone for Madera, bridging the gap between traditional entertainment and modern innovation. It was not just about the thrill of the flight; it was an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate progress.

Ultimately, the day was a resounding success. It solidified Madera’s place on the map of early aviation history, highlighting the town’s ability to embrace change and innovation. The combined event left a lasting impression on all who attended, making March 29, 1912, a date to remember in the annals of Madera’s history.