Gala and Open House in September kick off capital campaign for restoration

The Village of Lansing, Illinois is celebrating the 100^th Anniversary of the Historic Ford Hangar with a Celebration Gala on Friday, September 18th and an Expo & Aviation Showcase on Saturday, September 19th, 2026.

Mayor Brian Hardy said, “This magnificent Hangar, built by Henry Ford and Ford Motor Company, is the only cantilevered hangar designed by Albert Kahn remaining, a critical link to aviation history. Incorporating over 1,500 windows and 13,000 feet of space, the Hangar dazzles with light. A series of doors, each weighing nearly a ton, were designed to slide on tracks, making it possible for just one person to open them, allowing airplane access. It is a marvel of engineering and innovation.”

The Hangar was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on May 9, 1985.

Mayor Hardy says, “We invite everyone interested in architecture, history and aviation to join us in celebrating the Hangar. These events also begin our capital campaign, raising funds to restore, renovate and reactivate the Hangar as a vibrant, multi-use space with public art and museum. We will unveil a bold vision to the community, leaders and officials, highlighting Lansing and the Chicago Southland as a tourism destination and economic investment opportunity.”

Friday’s Gala tickets are $150 per person; tables of ten are $2,000 and include recognition at the event and on www.fordhangar100.org. The event begins at 5:30 pm. The Hangar’s history will be showcased by architects, historians and local leaders. Plans for the renovation and restoration will be debuted that evening.

Saturday’s Expo & Aviation Showcase is free. Doors to the Hangar open at 11:00 am. Visitors will enjoy live portrayals of Amelia Earhart and Charles Lindbergh, vintage automobiles, parachute teams, aviation activities for kids and adults, and a Ford Tri-Motor airplane. A professionally narrated, climate-controlled motorcoach Historic Places Tour will leave the Hangar at 8:00 am on Saturday. Flight experiences are available all weekend.

For more details and reservations, visit fordhangar100.org.

Mayor Hardy noted, “The restored Hangar will be a powerful catalyst for economic development across the region, supporting local business and positioning the Chicago Southland as a premier destination.”

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260713866398/en/

“We invite everyone interested in architecture, history and aviation to join us in celebrating the centennial for the Historic Ford Hangar."