A crowd had gathered in Rutland on this day in 1909. Most were there to marvel at a hot air balloon ascension, but some were needed to work.

Rutland gasworks provided gas for heating and lighting Rutland city homes, but on occasion they also provided gas for “enterprising balloonists.”

Once a balloon was filled, a large group of men were needed to hold the balloon in place on the ground so the crew could climb onboard. After the crew was secured, the workmen released netting that held the balloon stationary. This flight would be airborne for over two hours, and land in Laconia, New Hampshire.

Image courtesy Rutland In Retrospect, edited by Robert E. West and published by the Rutland Historical Society.