TreeAlive
← All Michigan markers

Selfridge Field

Macomb County · dedicated 1958 · M-59 east of I-94 near entrance to Air Museum, Harrison Township

Selfridge, Michigan’s first real airport, began operations as a training base in July 1917. It has progressed to a leading role in America’s air arm. It is often called “The Home of Generals” because Selfridge has been a springboard to success in the careers of 145 air force generals. It is named for Lieutenant Thomas E. Selfridge, the nation’s first military pilot. In 1908 he was killed while flying with Orville Wright, becoming America’s first military casualty of powered flight.

USGS Historical Topographic Map Collection

Marker data: Michigan History Center

See your own family's places through time.

Start with your family tree