Goodyear blimp birthplace honored as part Ohio aviation history. Here's what that means

The historic Goodyear blimp has been a part of Ohio since the first iterations were manufactured for the U.S. Navy during World War I. Now, the site the blimp calls home is being honored as part of the Buckeye State's aviation and space history.

Wingfoot Lake State Park is the latest member of the Ohio Air & Space Trail, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources recently announced.

“Ohio is the heart of aviation, and our long and distinctive heritage in aerospace will be a highlight of Ohio’s celebration for America’s 250th anniversary in 2026,” Gov. Mike DeWine said in a statement. “Linking Wingfoot Lake State Park as part of the Ohio Air & Space Trail will give outdoor enthusiasts a place to learn more about Ohio’s aviation history while enjoying the park’s natural beauty.”

Here's what to know about the trail and Wingfoot Lake's inclusion on it.

What is the Ohio Air & Space Trail?

The Ohio Air & Space Trail, unveiled by America 250-Ohio, pays homage to Ohio's contribution to air and space travel, aligning with the state's celebrations around America’s 250-year history in 2026. It consists of 34 places of interest across the state that visitors can explore.

"Ohio's pivotal role in aviation and space exploration is a testament to our state's enduring spirit of innovation and discovery," ODNR Director Mary Mertz said in a statement. "We are thrilled to see Wingfoot Lake State Park recognized as part of the Ohio Air and Space Trail, showcasing the remarkable achievements and contributions of Ohioans to the field of aerospace."

The trail will honor several famous flyers throughout Ohio, including Neil Armstrong, John Glenn, Orville and Wilbur Wright, and Ohio’s Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) who served during World War II.

Locations for the trail also include the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, the International Women’s Air & Space Museum, the Armstrong Air & Space Museum, the Great Lakes Science Center/NASA Glenn Visitor Center, WACO Air Museum, and the John & Annie Glenn Museum, among others.

How long have blimps been manufactured at Wingfoot Lake?

In 1916, Goodyear purchased 720 acres in southwest Portage County, near its headquarters in Akron, to begin manufacturing its own blimps. The 444-acre lake at the site, named Wingfoot Lake, provided the needed water for the operation. During World War I, Wingfoot Lake was instrumental for reconnaissance missions, with nine blimps built at the site for the U.S. Navy.

After the war, the Goodyear blimp fleet was used for advertising and promotional campaigns, including telecasts of college football games. In the 1960s, recreational facilities were developed on the north shore of Wingfoot Lake for Goodyear employees and corporate retreats. However, in 2006, Goodyear closed Wingfoot Lake Park.

When did Wingfoot Lake become a state park?

The ODNR Division of Wildlife purchased 690 acres of the Wingfoot Lake property in 2009, including Wingfoot Lake. On a clear day, visitors can spot the Goodyear blimp parked in its hangar on the lake's south shore.

In 2018, the blimp base was designated a state historic landmark, complete with an Ohio Historical Marker at the facility. The blimp base has operated since 1917, making it the oldest airship hangar in the United States, according to a previous Beacon Journal article.