Colonel Bernt Balchen, 1899-1973 Personal Papers, 1903-2002, bulk Bulk, 1903-1973
Online content
Collection context
Summary
- Creators:
- Balchen, Bernt, 1899-1973
- Abstract:
- This collection contains the papers of Bernt Balchen, a renowned cold-weather aviator.
- Extent:
- 0.4 Cubic feet 1 manuscript box
- Language:
- Preferred citation:
-
[Item name] Personal Collection of Bernt Balchen, 1899-1973, Archives, San Diego Air & Space Museum.
Background
- Scope and content:
-
This collection covers Bernt Balchen’s admirable career as a cold weather aviator who made many valuable contributions to the aviation world. This collection contains family photos of Colonel Balchen as a child in the early 1900’s and ranges to articles and letters received by his wife and family in the early 2000’s. The materials cover a wide time span and consist of a variety of materials relating to the life and achievements of this great aviator.
- Biographical / historical:
-
World renowned aviator Bernt Balchen was born in Tveit, Norway on October 23, 1899. Colonel Balchen, a native Norwegian, started flying in 1921. He became a U.S. citizen in 1930. His career spanned 35 years, serving both governments in cold-weather aviation. His many accomplishments include: pilot of the “America” transoceanic flight, searching for Amundsen, Byrd Antarctica expedition, building a secret air base in Greenland, rescues of downed planes, flying arms to Norwegian Resistance movement, rebuilding SAS Airlines, the DEW Line, and many other notable achievements. He retired from the USAF in 1956. He received many honors for his contributions to aviation. Colonel Balchen passed away in 1973 and was buried on his 74th birthday.
- Acquisition information:
- Most of the collection was donated to the Museum in the early 2000’s.
- Physical location:
- San Diego Air & Space Museum
- Rules or conventions:
- Describing Archives: A Content Standard
Indexed terms
Access and use
- Restrictions:
-
The collection is open to researchers by appointment.
- Terms of access:
-
Some copyright may be reserved. Consult with the library director for more information.
- Preferred citation:
-
[Item name] Personal Collection of Bernt Balchen, 1899-1973, Archives, San Diego Air & Space Museum.
- Location of this collection:
-
2001 Pan American Plaza, Balboa ParkSan Diego, CA 92101, US
- Contact:
- (619) 234-8291