Pan American ‘California Clipper’ passengers on inaugural flight

Pan American ‘California Clipper’ passengers on inaugural flight

Hawaii
Transport Development
Americanisation

This is a black and white photograph, 1371 by 1183 in size, taken in 1939. Taken by the Pan-Pacific Press Bureau, the photograph shows passengers of the Pan American ‘California Clipper’ after their arrival in Honolulu. Pan America Airlines was the biggest international airline in the United States from 1927 to 1991 and began flying planes to Honolulu in 1935. The introduction of an American airline flying to the islands of Hawaii signifies the large development of transportation routes that Hawaii experienced in the 20th century, Additionally, the photograph shows the passengers wearing Lei, necklaces made from flowers. Early settlers introduced this traditional accessory, originally worn by ancient Hawaiians to distinguish themselves from others. In Hawaiian culture it is also used as a token of welcome and affection. The US travellers wearing these shows attempts by the Hawaiians to welcome visitors and also the Americans attempts to combine cultures.

Pan-Pacific Press Bureau

Hawaii State Archives Digital Collections

http://gallery.hawaii.gov/gallery2/main.php?g2_itemId=1360

1939

Gabriella Thurbin

Hawaii State Archives, call number PP-1-5-005

English

Visual - photograph

20th century Hawai'i