NAHA’s 2025 Highlights
5 Wins That Took Flight.
⭐ 1. Wright Flyer III named Ohio’s State Airplane
The Ohio General Assembly designated the 1905 Wright Flyer III as the official airplane of Ohio. NAHA helped advocate for this recognition, highlighting Ohio’s role as the birthplace of aviation and strengthening aviation heritage as part of the state’s identity.
⭐ 2. VE Day 80th Anniversary
NAHA supported local partners in commemorating the 80th anniversary of VE Day, connecting community audiences with aviation and global history. Events featuring Sir Dermot Turing, nephew of WWII codebreaker Alan Turing, were hosted in collaboration with Oakwood Unsung Heroes, Wright Memorial Library, Oakwood Historical Society, Dayton International Peace Museum, and Carillon Historical Park. All programs were sold out, reflecting strong community interest.
⭐ 3. Grant Programs
NAHA awarded 13 grants this year to support projects that preserve aviation history and inspire future generations. These grants helped partners maintain historic aircraft, preserve important sites, and create educational programs that engage the public with aviation heritage.
A highlight was the restoration of the historic Wright “B” Flyer’s White Bird after a serious in-flight malfunction. With a NAHA Large Grant, volunteers are rebuilding the aircraft and updating safety protocols, ensuring this important piece of aviation history continues to fly.
⭐ 4. Milestones & Achievements
- Official Trademark: NAHA’s name was officially trademarked in March, strengthening our mission to preserve and promote aviation heritage.
- RUBY Award: NAHA’s Dayton International Airport (DAY) print ad, created by Jessica Reinsmoen, NAHA’s Marketing and Communications Project Manager, earned a RUBY Award from the Ohio Travel Association, which recognizes outstanding marketing and promotional achievements in Ohio’s travel industry.
- National Representation: Executive Director Mackensie Wittmer organized and presented a session at the AASLH Conference in Cincinnati with designated representatives from other Heritage Areas, highlighting how National Heritage Areas preserve history and strengthen communities.
⭐ 5. Looking Ahead
- Paul Laurence Dunbar House Historic Site Restoration: Work began in September to restore the exterior of the Paul Laurence Dunbar House. NAHA is providing grant management and $350,000 through the Save America’s Treasures program. The site is owned by the State of Ohio and managed by the Ohio History Connection, which is matching the federal investment dollar for dollar. This project will preserve an important cultural landmark and ensure it continues to educate and inspire visitors.
- Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park Boundary Adjustment: Legislation introduced in July could expand the park’s boundaries, enhancing the visitor experience. NAHA is grateful to Senators Jon Husted, Bernie Moreno, and Representatives Mike Turner and Greg Landsman for championing this effort.
