Smithfield Airport, Smithfield, Rhode Island – August 25, 1940
On August 25, 1940, Stanley G. Smith, 21, of Woonsocket, crashed while practicing take-offs and landings at the Smithfield Airport. His aircraft landed upside-down in an apple orchard about 275 yards from the end of the grass runway. The plane, a 1937 Continental Cub Monoplane (NC-20012) was a total wreck, but fortunately Smith escaped with only minor injuries. Undaunted by his brush with death, he climbed into another airplane and flew again a few minutes later!
The former Smithfield Airport was located where Bryant University stands today. The runway was located near the present-day football stadium. The airport opened in 1932, and remained in operation into the 1950s, and should not be confused with present-day North Central State Airport, which is located in Smithfield, R. I., and is sometimes referred to as the Smithfield Airport.
Source:
Woonsocket Call, “Woonsocket Flier Escapes Serious Injury As Plane Crashes Near Smithfield Airport.” August 26, 1940
