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103rd Aero Squadron Logbook Collection (Lafayette Escadrille)
SDASM.SC.10236
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Table of contents
Language of Material:
English
Contributing Institution:
San Diego Air and Space Museum Library and Archives
Title: 103rd Aero Squadron Logbook Collection (Lafayette Escadrille)
Identifier/Call Number: SDASM.SC.10236
Physical Description:
.5 Cubic Feet
This collection contains two original logbooks. Both measures approximately 8.5 x 11 inches and are stored in archivally safe
enclosures. They have both been digitized and are stored on the DAMS. The daily activity logbook was transcribed by Steve
Ruffin in 2020. The logbooks and the transcription can be viewed on Archive.org
Date (bulk): bulk
Abstract: Two of the most prized possessions in the Museum's collection are a pair of logbooks recording events related to the 103rd
Aero Squadron from the First World War. These two logbooks give insight into the thrilling combat stories of the squadron,
as well as the more mundane day to day activities of its members.
Physical Description: This collection contains two original logbooks. Both measures approximately 8.5 x 11 inches and are stored in archivally safe
enclosures. They have both been digitized and are stored on the DAMS.
Two of the most prized possessions in the Museum's collection are a pair of logbooks recording events related to the 103rd
Aero Squadron from the First World War. The 103rd squadron was the first American combat squadron to see action in the War
and was initially comprised of 17 pilots from the famed Lafayette Escadrille, the French squadron made up of mostly American
volunteers. One of the logbooks contains a record of the flight operations of the squadron, including hours flown and a narrative
about each day's activities. Some of these reports, listed as the "Nature of Patrol" are quite interesting and detailed.
The other logbook records more the Squadron's more mundane activities not related to flight, such as the names of new squadron
members, or where the 103rd was stationed. This book spans the period when the squadron was formed till when it returned
to the United States after the War.
The logbooks were professionally repaired and digitized in 2006. There is some speculation that the logbooks were discovered
in a trashcan in Coronado by a collector. The activity logbook was transcribed in 2020 by Steve Ruffin. The logbooks and
the transcription can be viewed on Archive.org
The collection is open to research, although some restrictions may apply due to the fragile condition of the logbooks.
Immediate Source of Acquisition
The logbooks were purchased by the Museum.
Subjects and Indexing Terms
Spad Aircraft
SPAD XIII
103rd Aero Squadron
Lafayette Escadrille
World War, 1914-1918
Baer, Paul Frank