Alexandria, Virginia

Inducted in 1988, Elvin W. “Robbie” Robertson learned to fly in a Curtiss Jenny in 1920.  He is credited with sparking the aviation industry in Northern Virginia and Washington areas as a barnstormer and airport operator during the 1920s, 30s, and 40s. In 1924, he began operating the Hoover Field in Washington, DC and Alexandria Airport at Hybla Valley. Robertson helped draft aviation laws for the U.S. Department of Commerce’s new aeronautical branch and formed Mount Vernon Airways, a full service flying school and charter service.  During WWII, he was the Director of Aeronautics at Virginia Polytechnic Institute.  After the war, he became a successful businessman in Northern Virginia operating the Annandale Business and Shopping Centers and later the Williamsburg Motor Court.