The Zeppelin NeedlebooksAlthough Count Von Zeppelin began tests of his first air ship in 1900, zeppelins did not reach their height of popularity until the 1920's and 1930's. During that time period, zeppelins made regular trips between German cities. Keep in mind that this was when travel was difficult; automobiles were a novelty and good roads were scarce. Zeppelins must have seemed truly miraculous.
By far the most well-known zeppelin (in the USA) was the Hindenburg. The three-football-field long air ship provided comfort and style in her dining salon, lounges, and staterooms. Huge Nazi swastikas adorned her tail fins. She was first flown in March of 1936, and made several awe-inspiring flights prior to her fiery demise in May of 1937 on her first of 18 scheduled visits to North America.
The Hindenburg crashed into the ground just 32 seconds after flames were spotted during the landing attempt. Thirty-six people died, as did the popularity of zeppelins. It seems likely that these needle books date to during the time when zeppelins were the ultimate in passenger travel.
Most zeppelins were made in Germany. Interestingly, "Silver Flyer" is my only zeppelin needle book made in Germany. The others were made in Japan. Other zeppelin books exist and I hope to add them to this page in the future.
Sources:
http://njtimes.rutgrs.edu/crash.htm
http://www.ciderpresspottery.com/ZLA.html
http://www.vidicom-tv/noframes/nfhiburg.htm
http://www.roadsideamerica.com/attract/NJLAKhinden.html
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