Our first completely original blockbuster exhibit entitled FLIGHT is opening in August 2016. We have primarily been known as a venue for traveling exhibits, but over the past two years we have been developing FLIGHT behind the scenes.
We want the entire state of Utah to participate in and own this exhibit. We want you to come and enjoy its many delights and bring your kids so that you can explore the joy and wonder of FLIGHT together. The Leonardo has created a Generosity page and is asking for donations from the public. There are multiple levels of donation, each offering different rewards and exclusive benefits for donors.
Donation Level Spotlight: $15
You might be wondering what kinds of rewards or perks there could be with only a $15 donation? Well, you’d be surprised at creativity and ingenuity of the rewards on this level. Let’s break down what you will receive by generously donating $15:
- An old school Leo branded Pilot Bomber Hat
- A pair of aviation goggles
- A pair of Air Leo pilot wings
- One (1) free ticket to be among the first in the world to see FLIGHT
If there is any question of what an old school bomber hat and goggles will look like, check out these pictures below:
History of the Bomber Hat and Goggles
An aviator hat, also known as a bomber hat, is a usually a leather cap with large earflaps, a chin strap and, often, a short bill that is commonly turned up at the front to show the lining (often fleece or fur). It is often worn with goggles. It may be made of other materials, such as felt.
Aviator hats became popular in the early days of the 20th century as open-cockpit airplanes grew in use. Pilots needed a hat to keep their heads and ears warm, as well as goggles to protect their eyes in flight.
With the advent of closed-cockpit airplanes, hats became less necessary (note that Charles Lindbergh still wore one when he crossed the Atlantic in 1927, though his Spirit of St. Louis monoplane had a closed cockpit). Nonetheless, aviator’s hats continued in popularity as a fashion accessory and winter hat. Aviator’s hats continued in aviation use through the Second World War, until the age of jet fighters, when solid plastic and, later, carbon fiber helmets replaced leather caps in the cockpits of planes.
If you are interested in donating, or finding out more information about The Leonardo’s crowdfunding campaign for FLIGHT, please visit https://igg.me/at/XrKlh0Guues