February 18, 1930 – A cow jumps over the moon, er, flies in an airplane, for the first time

In the annals of aviation history, amidst tales of daring pilots and groundbreaking innovations, there exists a unique story that transcends the ordinary—a story of a bovine pioneer that took to the skies and captured the imagination of a nation. Elm Farm Ollie, affectionately known as “Nellie Jay” and post-flight as the “Sky Queen,” etched her place in history on February 18, 1930, when she became the first cow to fly in an airplane.

The stage was set at the International Air Exposition in St. Louis, Missouri, where aviation enthusiasts gathered to witness the latest feats of flight. Among the marvels of the day was a Ford Trimotor airplane, ready to embark on a journey unlike any other—with a passenger of the four-legged variety. Elm Farm Ollie, a prized Guernsey cow hailing from Bismarck, Missouri, was chosen for this unprecedented adventure.

The first flight of the cow

As the engines roared to life and the aircraft soared into the sky, Elm Farm Ollie embarked on a historic journey, not only as a passenger but also as a participant in a groundbreaking scientific experiment. Mid-flight, amidst the whirring propellers and the rush of wind, she made history once again by becoming the first cow to be milked in flight. This remarkable feat was not merely a spectacle for onlookers; it served a dual purpose of scientific inquiry and publicity, heralding a new era in the transportation of livestock.

Elsworth W. Bunce, a Wisconsin native, stepped into the role of mid-air dairyman, skillfully milking Elm Farm Ollie as the airplane cruised through the clouds. The cow, known for her exceptional productivity, yielded an impressive 24 quarts of milk during the flight—a testament to her resilience and adaptability to the unconventional circumstances.

In-flight milking

But Elm Farm Ollie’s journey didn’t end there. Her milk, sealed into paper cartons, was parachuted to spectators below, adding an element of whimsy to the historic occasion. Legend has it that even famed aviator Charles Lindbergh partook in a glass of her sky-born milk, cementing her place in popular culture.

While Elm Farm Ollie was born and raised in the heartland of Bismarck, Missouri, it is in the dairy state of Wisconsin where her legacy truly flourished. Her airborne escapade became a symbol of innovation and agricultural prowess, immortalizing her as a beloved icon in the annals of aviation history.

Beyond her historic flight, Elm Farm Ollie’s story resonates as a testament to the spirit of exploration and the boundless possibilities of human (and bovine) ingenuity. Her airborne adventure paved the way for future endeavors in animal transportation and inspired generations to dream beyond the confines of the ground.

As we reflect on the remarkable journey of Elm Farm Ollie, let us not only celebrate her singular achievement but also embrace the spirit of adventure that propels us to reach new heights, both literally and figuratively. In the tapestry of history, her hoofprints remain etched in the sky, a reminder of the extraordinary feats that can be achieved when we dare to defy gravity and soar towards the unknown. In the grand saga of aviation history, Elm Farm Ollie stands as a testament to the fact that sometimes, even cows can reach for the stars.

A brief history of Ford airplanes

Amidst the tales of Elm Farm Ollie’s aerial exploits, it’s worth acknowledging the role of Ford in shaping the landscape of aviation during that era. While Ford is renowned for revolutionizing the automobile industry, its foray into aviation with the iconic Ford Trimotor airplane left an indelible mark on history.

The Ford Trimotor airplane

Introduced in 1925, the Ford Trimotor, affectionately dubbed the “Tin Goose,” quickly became a symbol of reliability and innovation in commercial aviation. With its all-metal construction and three-engine design, it offered unprecedented levels of safety and comfort for passengers traversing the skies.

The Trimotor’s robust design made it an ideal choice for Elm Farm Ollie’s historic flight, providing a stable platform for her airborne adventure. Its spacious interior accommodated both passengers and cargo, showcasing Ford’s commitment to versatility and practicality in aviation.

Beyond its role in Elm Farm Ollie’s journey, the Ford Trimotor played a pivotal role in expanding access to air travel, connecting distant communities and fostering economic growth. From pioneering air routes to serving as a workhorse in commercial aviation, it left an indelible legacy that continues to inspire aviation enthusiasts to this day. As we commemorate the historic flight of Elm Farm Ollie, let us also pay tribute to the ingenuity and vision of Ford, whose contributions to aviation history have left an enduring impact on the world of flight.