The Jack Murdock Aviation Center at Pearson Field combines a celebration of aviation history with hands-on demonstrations of the science and mechanics of flight. History focuses on the period from 1905 through World War II, when Pearson Field was the site of many aviation firsts. Displays feature a pictorial history of Pearson Field and historic artifacts and aircraft. The center s black and yellow checkerboard roof recreates a bit of Pearson Field history. It duplicates roofs common at Army airfields during the Golden Age of Flight, when pilots often needed visual guides to a safe landing.
Interactive exhibits teach the principles of lift, aerodynamics and propulsion.
In the Restoration Center, visitors can watch as craftsmen restore old airplanes. The center also features hands-on computer workstations, an aviation theater and gift shop. Exhibits are being funded through donations to the One Place Across Time campaign. The Jack Murdock Aviation Center at Pearson Field operates as a cooperative partnership between the City of Vancouver and the National Park Service. The museum is located at 1115 E. Fifth Street.