This collection contains a variety of printed materials relating to the first half-century of aviation. The collection consists largely of promotional materials published and distributed by manufacturers of airplanes and airplane parts. Represented in the collection are such well-known companies as Boeing, Lockheed, and Cessna, but the collection also holds materials from a number of lesser-known and/or defunct businesses. The collection includes material dating to the first decade of aviation, including a 1911 White Aeroplane Company catalog; more heavily represented is the World War II era. Most of the materials are from companies based in the United States, but the collection also contains materials from European companies. In addition to the promotional materials are a few periodicals (including an issue of Contact, published by the Women's National Aeronautical Association) and a menu from a 1932 dinner honoring Amelia Earhart.