I
Even though Count Von Zeppelin had envisioned his creations for
military purposes, they would receive most of their support in use as
civil transport. With the military casting a doubtful eye on these
massive ships filled of hydrogen, it was with some measure of regret
that the Count started to gear his ships towards the business of
transporting people rather than bombs.
Once some of the major design flaws had been over come, "Zeppelins",
as they came to be known, began to make regular trips between several
major cities in Germany. With roads and motor vehicles still in their
infancy and aeroplanes being any thing but safe, Zeppelin travel was
truly a thing of the future. These early Zeppelins carried
approximately 24 passengers in great comfort. Sandwiches and wine
were served for meals during flights. Many of these Zeppelins began
to carry names painted on their bows in addition to their number
designation and were known with fondness throughout Germany.
III
I. Anatomy of an early passenger Zeppelin.
II. The LZ10 "Schwaben".
III. A travel poster for DELAG, the world's first passenger
air service.