Original Hancock Field (site) (Santa Maria, California)

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Hancock Field was founded in 1927 by Captain Allan Hancock. It was dedicated as the community's airport the following year. The Hancock Foundation College of Aeronautics was established in 1928. Ten-week classes were offered prospective pilot candidates, with successful individuals becoming licensed pilots. Graduation of the first students occurred in 1929.

Just prior to the outbreak of WW2, the Hancock school was selected as one of eight civilian institutions to provide primary training to military aviation cadets. This training began in 1939, just 40 days after Captain Hancock had met with General Arnold.

During the Korean War the Hancock school was used to train aviation mechanics. In 1954 Santa Maria Junior College purchased the 40 acre airport site and began construction of what is still operated today as the Allan Hancock Community College.

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