Key West can boast a number of claims to fame. It’s well known as the inspiration for Jimmy Buffett’s “trop rock” classics, the former home of Ernest Hemingway, and the place where Key lime pie was created. But most people aren’t aware of another significant distinction: in 1927, the island was the birthplace of one-time aviation giant Pan American Airlines.
A company called Aeromarine Airways preceded Pan Am by seven years, launching America’s first official international airmail service by piloting aircraft called “flying boats” between Key West and Havana. However, it ceased operation in 1924.
That’s when the embryonic Pan Am stepped in, led by a man named Juan Trippe — who had a letter guaranteeing him airplane landing rights in Cuba. By Oct. 11, 1927, he also had a contract with the U.S. Post Office to deliver mail between Key West and Havana.
Unfortunately, there was a problem. The contract required the first load of letters to be delivered by Oct. 19 — and despite being ordered 18 months earlier, Pan Am’s planes hadn’t arrived in Key West.
Luckily, a seaplane pilot named Cy Caldwell was persuaded to make the flight on behalf of the airline. Just after 8 a.m. on Oct. 19, he left the island carrying 30,000 letters. Landing in Havana a short time later, he secured both the contract and Key West’s place in aviation history.
Cocktail fans can honor Pan Am’s heritage, and its birthplace, at the Key West Cooking School’s Bar 1 — by sampling a specialty concoction dubbed the Pan-Am Aviation.
Colorful and distinctive, the gin-based offering is praised for its unique floral taste with a hint of tartness. In addition to gin, it features maraschino liqueur, lemon juice and a small amount of crème de violette — a liqueur that dates back to the 1800s and infuses the drink with subtle notes of violet and a delicate lavender hue.
As well as a favorite of customers at Bar 1, located within the Key West Cooking School at 291 Front St., the Pan-Am Aviation is a showstopper during the bar’s mixology class titled “Key West History through Craft Cocktails.”
Offered Tuesday through Saturday, the classes blend demonstrations by a bartender-storyteller, hands-on cocktail-crafting practice, a chance to sample multiple specialty drinks, and intriguing tales and tidbits about Key West’s “spirited” history.
Each class is limited to a small number of cocktail connoisseurs to ensure personal attention and an unforgettable experience; reservations are required and can be made by calling 305-294-2665.
Last Call
Drink of the month: Lavender Haze. The Pan-Am Aviation isn’t the only purple-hued cocktail at Bar 1. The Lavender Haze blends gin, crème de violette, orange liqueur, lemon juice,and an egg white — resulting in a fruity, floral drink that’s a refreshing choice when summer temperatures climb in Key West.
Helpful bar hack: With its intriguing lavender color, the Pan-Am Aviation is quite a distinctive libation. To make it even more memorable, while complementing the floral taste and adding an unparalleled elegance, float a velvety purple pansy blossom in the glass.
Thirsty for more? Visit keywestcookingschool.com.
