Yesterday I learned from our local (STL) news that Boeing completed demolition of Buildings 1 and 2 to prepare for a new design and production facility on the same site.
Buildings 1 and 2 were originally Curtiss-Wright design and production facilities before Mc Donnell bought them. I spent most of my seven years at McAir in Building 2. My most vivid memories:
In 1967, After a few months on the job, going to the men’s room and having JS McDonnell walk in to the bathroom. Not knowing what to do, I did nothing.
On break at windows overlooking Lambert Airport, drinking my usual “Tiger Red” cream Soda, watching an F-4 take off. The pilot overrotated, stalled and the airplane crashed, totally destroyed. The pilot and backseater both safely ejected.
Most of McAir’s aircraft production was in Building 1: FH-2, F2H, F3H, F-4, F-88, F-101, F-15, and F-18. Also probably the XP-67, Little Henry (helicopter) and XV-1 Convertiplane. I believe Harriers were produced in a different building.
Most (maybe all)of Curtiss-Wright’s St Louis production was in Building 1
Building 1’s big hangar doors and red illuminated “McDonnell Douglas” with the logo. I have attached a rollout photo of the prototype F-15A-1 in front of Building 1.
Sad to see the buildings go, but Boeing STL says that “Fightertown USA” tradition will continue.
When I tried to upload this topic, I had originally included a description of the hangar door - very dark grey (B**K). The word is forbidden.
I’m getting’ old.