After World War I, U.S. air races reached their zenith, drawing huge crowds. General aviation profited as much as the promoters from this high-risk game. Manufacturers showcased aircraft, hoping a win would spawn huge military contracts. Air racing became a proving ground for new ideas.
The Air Racing Gallery displays an outstanding collection of classic air racers, including Oshkosh native S.J. "Steve" Wittman's personal collection of artifacts and airplanes.
During a remarkable racing career which included a start in every Cleveland National from 1928 to 1949, Wittman brought home hundreds of trophies. Noted for achieving performance through aerodynamics instead of brute horsepower, he was equally successful as a designer and builder who yielded some of the most noteworthy recreational aircraft in sport aviation.
The Aerobatics Gallery houses one of the world's finest collections of aerobatic airplanes, featuring both the exciting sport of aerobatic competition and "performance aerobatics" as demonstrated by top air show performers over the years.
