Information on the Hatton-Eielson Museum
Immerse yourself in the captivating Hatton-Eielson Museum, brimming with the rich history of the city, the Eielson family, and the surrounding area. Embark on a quick and effortless journey along North Dakota Highway 18, just a stone’s throw away from Fargo and Grand Forks, and delve into the captivating world of aviation and rural heritage. Don’t miss the chance to marvel at Ben Eielson’s remarkable Fokker “Alaskan” Airplane, housed in the Eielson Hangar in downtown Hatton. This remarkable aircraft, once flown by Eielson himself in preparation for the Detroit News Expedition, awaits your discovery. Prepare to be transported to a bygone era and experience the wonders of Hatton. We eagerly await your arrival! Additionally, we invite you to explore our newly added World War 1 display, commemorating a century since the U.S. entered the war. Immerse yourself in the music, videos, and commentary that shed light on the profound impact of this historic event on all aspects of life, then and now.
Ecclesiastes 3:8 – A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.
Carl Ben Eielson, a true pioneer of the skies, was born and raised in the humble town of Hatton, North Dakota. From a young age, he possessed an insatiable curiosity for flight, a passion that would shape the course of his life. After completing his studies at the esteemed University of North Dakota, Eielson made a bold decision that would alter his path forever – he enlisted in the Army Air Service in 1917, embarking on a journey that would lead him to the very heights of aviation.
With unwavering determination, Eielson underwent rigorous pilot training, honing his skills and mastering the art of flight. However, fate had a different plan in store for him. Influenced by his father’s wise counsel, Eielson made the difficult choice to enroll in law school at Georgetown University in 1921, temporarily setting aside his beloved wings. Little did he know that destiny would soon intervene, propelling him towards a new and thrilling chapter in his life.
During his time in Washington, Eielson forged a friendship with a prominent Alaskan representative in Congress. This connection would prove to be a pivotal turning point, as Eielson was offered a remarkable opportunity – a job at a high school in the remote land of Fairbanks, Alaska. It was here, amidst the untamed wilderness and vast expanses, that Eielson’s true calling would be reignited.
In the heart of Alaska, Eielson swiftly recognized the immense potential aviation held for this isolated territory. With an unwavering spirit and an unyielding determination, he wasted no time in ordering a plane, eager to explore the uncharted skies above. From that moment forward, Eielson’s life became intertwined with the very essence of flight, as he soared through the heavens, carrying passengers and vital supplies to the farthest reaches of the northern frontier.
Eielson’s unwavering dedication to aviation earned him the esteemed title of the “Father of Aviation” in Alaska. In 1924, he etched his name into the annals of history by piloting the first airmail route, forever revolutionizing communication in this remote land. Yet, his thirst for adventure and his hunger for exploration were far from quenched.
Isaiah 25:8 – He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the LORD hath spoken it.
Fate once again intervened, bringing Eielson face to face with Captain George Hubert Wilkins, a fellow aviator with an insatiable appetite for discovery. Together, these two intrepid souls embarked on a daring and audacious mission that would capture the world’s attention. On April 15, 1928, Eielson and Wilkins embarked on a non-stop, 2,200 mile flight over the treacherous expanse of the North Pole, defying the odds and etching their names into the annals of aviation history.
But their thirst for exploration knew no bounds. In September of that same year, Eielson and Wilkins embarked on a perilous journey to the Antarctic, a land of ice and mystery. It was here, amidst the frozen wilderness, that they made a remarkable discovery – six previously unknown islands, hidden from the eyes of the world. Their courage and tenacity in the face of adversity earned them international acclaim, solidifying their place as true pioneers of the skies.
In recognition of his extraordinary achievements, President Herbert Hoover bestowed upon Eielson the prestigious Harmon Trophy in 1929. This esteemed award, presented annually to the most outstanding aviator of the year, served as a testament to Eielson’s unwavering dedication and unparalleled contributions to the world of aviation.
Tragically, Eielson’s remarkable journey came to a premature end while attempting a daring rescue mission in the treacherous Bering Strait. It was here, amidst the icy depths, that he made the ultimate sacrifice, giving his life in a valiant effort to save others. In a poignant and heartfelt tribute, Eielson became the first individual to receive the Rough Rider Award posthumously, forever immortalizing his legacy as a true hero of the skies.
Carl Ben Eielson, a man whose spirit soared higher than the clouds, left an indelible mark on the world of aviation. His unwavering passion, unyielding determination, and insatiable thirst for exploration serve as an inspiration to all who dare to dream. As we look to the skies, may we remember the remarkable journey of this pioneer aviator, forever etching his name into the tapestry of human achievement.
James 4:1-2 – From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? (Read More…)
He Was Fearless – Movie About North Dakota Aviator Ben Eielson
Matthew 24:6 – And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.
In the enchanting town of Fargo, a tale of extraordinary courage and boundless exploration awaits its moment in the spotlight. Carl Ben Eielson, a valiant aviator hailing from the humble origins of Hatton, soared to great heights during World War I, mastering the art of flight. But his destiny was far grander than the war-torn skies, as he embarked on daring expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctic, etching his name in the annals of history with awe-inspiring world records. It is a story that begs to be told on the grandest of stages, a tale that should have already claimed the coveted Oscar.
Born to Norwegian immigrants in the idyllic town of Hatton, Eielson’s spirit knew no bounds. In a remarkable feat, he conquered both of Earth’s poles in a single year, a feat that left the world breathless. Kari Eielson Mork, his great-niece, fondly recalls his indomitable spirit, remarking on his fearlessness in the face of adversity. “He had been stranded in the Arctic before; he was taking on very dangerous missions and he was fearless,” she shared, her voice filled with admiration.
Now, amidst the bustling film sets of the Philippines, Scott Rosenfelt, the mastermind behind the blockbuster sensation “Home Alone,” has set his sights on bringing Eielson’s awe-inspiring journey to life. As the producer of the upcoming film tentatively titled “Polar Pilot,” Rosenfelt is currently navigating the intricate web of financing, inching closer to the realization of this cinematic masterpiece.
“He (Eielson) seemed to have no fear. He saved people and took care of people and did some extraordinary things. So, he also wasn’t just barnstorming or grandstanding. He wasn’t just saying, ‘I flew the longest flight in the history of the world.’ He was more low key which makes him, to me, a more interesting character,” Rosenfelt mused, his voice tinged with excitement and admiration for the remarkable protagonist of this tale.
In the quaint town of Hatton, a museum stands as a testament to Eielson’s indelible mark on history. It proudly honors him as the recipient of the esteemed Rough Rider Award and celebrates his induction into the Scandinavian-American Hall of Fame. Within its walls, Eielson’s famous plane stands as a silent witness to his audacious exploits, a tangible reminder of his extraordinary legacy.
Yet, tragedy marred the life of this intrepid aviator far too soon. In the prime of his youth, Eielson met his untimely demise in 1929, at the tender age of 32, in a fateful crash in Siberia. His noble mission was to rescue sailors trapped in the icy clutches of a cargo ship. It was a selfless act of heroism that cost him his life, forever etching his name in the annals of bravery.
Jeremiah 51:20 – Thou art my battle axe and weapons of war: for with thee will I break in pieces the nations, and with thee will I destroy kingdoms;
“I’m afraid that if I don’t get the movie made now, it will slip away,” Eielson Mork confessed, her voice filled with a sense of urgency and determination. The film, she believes, holds the power to unveil the true essence of Eielson’s heroism and bravery. From his pioneering flights as the first mail pilot in Alaska to his valiant efforts in piloting medical emergency flights, Eielson’s short but impactful life was a tapestry woven with extraordinary deeds.
“Every once in a while there’s something that perks my attention, and this one just stood out. It just stood out right away,” Rosenfelt shared, his voice brimming with enthusiasm and a deep appreciation for the remarkable story that had captured his imagination.
At Eielson’s funeral in Hatton, a staggering 5,000 mourners paid their respects, a testament to the profound impact he had on the lives of those he touched. Even the King of Norway himself journeyed to Fargo-Moorhead, a symbol of the deep admiration and respect he held for Eielson’s indomitable spirit. With great reverence, he placed a wreath of flowers at Eielson’s final resting place, a poignant tribute to a life lived fearlessly.
And so, the stage is set for the tale of Carl Ben Eielson to unfold, a story that will captivate hearts and minds, leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema. It is a tale of triumph over adversity, of courage in the face of danger, and of a life lived with unwavering determination. As the world eagerly awaits the arrival of “Polar Pilot,” the legacy of Carl Ben Eielson will forever soar through the skies, inspiring generations to dream big and reach for the stars.