Kinetic Sculpture

The Beginning

About This Work

In front of the historic Hangar 9—the oldest wooden aircraft hangar still standing in its original location—a remarkable work of art rises. "The Beginning", a monumental steel sculpture by James Hetherington, captures the essence of early aviation and pays tribute to the Curtiss JN-4 "Jenny" biplane, which played a pivotal role in training World War I pilots.

The Story Behind

This striking piece symbolizes Brooks City-Base's aviation heritage, merging history with innovation and showcasing the pioneering spirit that continues to define this historic site. Built during World War I, Hangar 9 housed some of the first military aircraft used to train America's earliest pilots. The Curtiss JN-4 "Jenny", the most widely used training aircraft of its time, was stationed here, helping to shape the future of aviation. This sculpture connects us to that rich history, reminding us of the bravery, skill, and innovation that took flight at Brooks Field. Just as the Jenny represented the dawn of American military aviation, "The Beginning" stands as a symbol of progress, leading Brooks into the future.