A Cow Walks Onto A Plane…

No, I'm not going to tell a joke or even attempt to write a country song. Eighty-five years ago today, Feb. 18, Elm Farm Ollie became the first cow to ride in an airplane. It was part of the International Aircraft Exposition in St Louis.

Scientists wanted to learn more about the effects of gravity on animals in flight. I suspect the Exposition was also looking for some extra publicity. Ollie also earned the distinction of being the first cow ever milked on an airplane. Her milk was then sealed in paper containers and parachuted to the ground.

Other noteworthy happenings on Feb. 18 include the first Iron Man Triathlon being held in 1978 and snow was reported in the Sahara desert on this date in 1979.