The Rockford Years: A Look Back at EAA Conventions 1959–1969

Before Oshkosh became the home of the world’s largest aviation celebration, the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Fly-In Convention found its roots in Rockford, Illinois. From 1959 to 1969, Rockford hosted what would become the heart and soul of EAA’s early growth, laying the foundation for the thriving aviation community we know today.

A Humble Beginning

In 1959, the EAA moved its annual fly-in from Milwaukee to Rockford Airport to accommodate the event’s growing popularity. Early Rockford conventions retained an intimate, grassroots atmosphere. Homebuilders, restorers, and aviation enthusiasts gathered to showcase their aircraft, swap ideas, and celebrate flight.

Attendees camped under the wings of their aircraft, shared building tips, and formed lifelong friendships. Each morning, the buzzing of Ray Hegy’s tiny red biplane, El Chuparosa, served as an unofficial wake-up call — a beloved tradition known as the “dawn patrol.”

Growth and Excitement in the 1960s

Throughout the 1960s, the Rockford convention grew dramatically. Homebuilt aircraft continued to be the centerpiece, but new additions — antique classics, military surplus "warbirds," and aerobatic performers — added to the event’s excitement.

Highlights included:

• The Breezy’s Debut (1965): Designed by Charles Roloff and Carl Unger, the open-frame Breezy made its first appearance, thrilling thousands of attendees with free rides and embodying the spirit of grassroots aviation.
  
  

• Warbirds of America Formation (1964): The introduction of WWII-era aircraft like the P-51 Mustang and Supermarine Spitfire expanded the fly-in's appeal, bringing history to life in Rockford’s skies.
  
  

• Daily Airshows: Aerobatic legends like Bob Hoover dazzled the crowds with breathtaking performances.
  
  

By the late 1960s, the convention had become a national destination, drawing crowds of more than 100,000 and thousands of aircraft. Rockford Airport was packed edge-to-edge with planes, tents, and aviation enthusiasts.

The Final Years and a New Home

By 1969, it was clear the Rockford facilities could no longer support the rapidly growing event. That year’s convention was the last held at Rockford. In 1970, EAA moved its Fly-In to Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, where it evolved into the global aviation event now known as EAA AirVenture Oshkosh.

Though the event moved on, the spirit of the Rockford years — the camaraderie, innovation, and passion for aviation — remains the cornerstone of EAA’s identity today.

Explore the Memories

We’re proud to share some incredible glimpses into this important chapter of EAA’s history:

Want to explore more? Here are additional collections you might enjoy:

• Chapter 110 Gallery – Photos from the 1961 Rockford Fly-In
  
  

• ABPic 1965 Collection – Aircraft from the 1965 Rockford Convention
  
  

• 1967 EAA Convention Program – Available with historic photos
  
  

• AirHistory.net 1961 Gallery – Aircraft and event images
  
  

• YouTube Archive – Footage from the '60s EAA Fly-Ins

• Curt DeBaun's Album - Includes many from Rockford