Racing the Skies and River: 1929 St. Louis Balloon and Steamboat Spectacle (silent)
The *Gould Can 5230.1* newsreel from 1929 captures two dynamic events: an International Balloon Race in St. Louis and a thrilling steamboat race on the Mississippi River. The footage begins with crews preparing their hot air balloons, followed by their dramatic lift-off. Although the race’s progress is sparsely documented, the newsreel reports the winner two days later. The steamboat race showcases three sternwheelers fiercely competing, their smokestacks billowing black smoke as they navigate the iconic river. This glimpse into 1920s Americana highlights the excitement and spectacle of these historic competitions.
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