Ava, Ohio facts for kids
Ava is a small, quiet community located in Noble County, Ohio. Even though it's not a big city, it has its own post office with the ZIP code 43711. Ava is also home to a special museum. This museum tells the story of a very important event that happened nearby: the crash of a huge airship called the USS Shenandoah in 1925.
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A Look Back: Ava's History
Ava was officially started in 1873. Back then, it was an important stop along the Cleveland & Marietta Railroad. Trains would bring goods and people to Ava, and it became a place where things were shipped out to other towns. The railroad helped Ava grow and connect with the rest of Ohio.
The Tragic Flight of the USS Shenandoah
One of the most famous events connected to Ava is the crash of the USS Shenandoah. This wasn't just any aircraft; it was a giant airship, like a very long, rigid blimp, built by the United States Navy. It was nearly 700 feet long – that's longer than two football fields! The Shenandoah was a marvel of engineering for its time, designed to fly long distances.
In September 1925, the USS Shenandoah was on a special trip across the United States. It was the first time a rigid airship had tried to fly all the way across North America. But on September 3rd, while flying over Ohio, the airship ran into a very strong thunderstorm. The powerful winds and turbulence were too much for the massive ship.
The Crash and Its Impact
The storm caused the Shenandoah to break apart in the air. Parts of the airship crashed in different locations near Ava. Sadly, 14 of the crew members lost their lives in the accident, including the ship's commander. Many others were injured. This event was a big shock to the nation and led to important changes in how airships were designed and operated for safety.
Remembering the Shenandoah
Today, the small museum in Ava helps keep the memory of the USS Shenandoah and its crew alive. Visitors can learn about the airship's history, the details of its final flight, and the impact the crash had on the community and aviation. It's a place where you can understand a significant moment in American history and the early days of air travel.
