Cape Cod Airfield is located on the former site of
Camp Perkins, a
Massachusetts National Guard camp which was active on the site in 1921 and 1922. The airport was founded by Zenas Crocker, a
World War I biplane pilot. During
Prohibition, the biggest attraction at the airport was the nearby Aviation Country Club, which ran an open bar and night-club. The club was closed down by Zenas Crocker's brother - Laughlin Crocker who was the Sheriff of Barnstable County. In 1930, the Skyways Flying School, run by Crocker's friend Crocker Snow, opened at the airport. In 1935, the property was acquired by Hilma and William H. Danforth, summer residents of
Oyster Harbors. The Danforths used the property as a riding stable, polo field, and automobile race track as well as for their private aircraft and added a windmill to serve as an office building. The airport was opened for commercial service on May 8, 1946, when Mrs. Danforth leased the property to
John C. Van Arsdale. Laurel Kornhiser took over operations following her husband's death. In March 2003, a representative of the Danforth family informed Kornhiser that her lease would not be renewed and the airport would close. In 2003, the Town of Barnstable purchased the 217-acre Danforth Property, which included the airport, for $11.2 million. The airport reopened in July 2004. ==See also==