American Modeler magazine has a rich history rooted in the enthusiasm for model aircraft, covering topics such as building, flying, engines, fuel, contests, advertisements, and product reviews. Its lineage can be traced back to the publication Air Trails, which underwent a transformation in 1955 to focus on scale modeling, broadening its scope to include aircraft, cars, and trains. This evolution culminated in the December 1956 rebranding of Air Trails as American Modeler. The first issue under this title was volume 47, number 3. Initially, the magazine was published monthly, catering to a wide audience of hobbyists and enthusiasts.

Albert L. "Al" Lewis, a pivotal figure in the magazine's history, served as editor during its formative years. His tenure began in the late 1950s and extended through much of the magazine's publication. Lewis was instrumental in defining the editorial direction of American Modeler, incorporating content that ranged from detailed how-to guides and plan drawings to insightful product reviews and contest coverage. Lewis also oversaw other related publications, including Air Progress and American Modeler Annual, which provided supplemental content for readers eager to dive deeper into the hobby. Under his leadership, the magazine maintained its monthly schedule until early 1963, when it shifted to a bi-monthly publication rhythm. This change marked an effort to balance the demands of producing high-quality content with the logistics of production.

In 1967, the magazine returned to a monthly schedule, a reflection of its enduring popularity and the expanding interests of its readership. Around this time, American Modeler began to feature contributions from notable figures such as G. Harry Stine, who provided articles on emerging trends like model rocketry. Stine's involvement added depth to the magazine's coverage, bridging traditional modeling topics with newer, innovative hobbies.

The year 1968 marked a significant transition when the magazine was rebranded as American Aircraft Modeler. This change represented a more focused approach to the flying model aircraft segment, aligning with the growing sophistication and specialization within the hobby. The magazine continued under this title until March 1975, when its publication ceased. During this period, it remained a cornerstone of the modeling community, offering readers a blend of technical expertise, practical advice, and inspiring features.

After the closure of American Aircraft Modeler, its legacy was carried forward by RC Sportsman, a tabloid-style publication that operated until May 1978. Eventually, the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA), which had previously published its newsletter within American Modeler, launched its own dedicated publication, Model Aviation. This new magazine became the primary voice for model aircraft enthusiasts, inheriting much of the audience and spirit of its predecessor.

Throughout its history, American Modeler also produced annual editions that served as comprehensive resources for hobbyists. These special issues were highly anticipated, providing additional plans, articles, and features beyond the regular monthly content. The magazine's influence extended well beyond its pages, shaping the culture of model aviation and fostering a sense of community among enthusiasts.

Al Lewis's contributions to the magazine and the hobby as a whole were monumental. His editorial vision, combined with contributions from figures like G. Harry Stine, ensured that American Modeler remained at the forefront of the modeling world during its years of publication. Even decades after its final issue, the magazine's impact continues to be felt, remembered fondly by those who cherished its pages.

"American Modeler" magazine was a prominent publication dedicated to model aircraft enthusiasts, covering topics such as building, flying, engines, fuel, contests, advertisements, and product reviews. Here's a detailed history of the magazine, including its publication timeline and information about its editors, as assimilated from various online source deemed reliable.

Origins and Evolution:

Predecessor Publications: The magazine's lineage can be traced back to "Air Trails," which underwent a redesign in late 1955 to emerge as a scale modeling magazine covering a wide range of subjects, including cars, trains, and aircraft.

Transition to "American Modeler": In December 1956, the magazine was rebranded as "American Modeler," starting with volume 47, number 3.

Publication Timeline:

1956-1963: Initially, "American Modeler" was published monthly.

1963-1967: In early 1963, the magazine shifted to a bi-monthly publication schedule but reverted to monthly at the start of 1967.

1968-1975: In 1968, the magazine evolved into "American Aircraft Modeler," continuing the tradition of covering flying model aircraft. This publication ceased in March 1975.

Post-1975: After "American Aircraft Modeler" ceased publication, it was resurrected as "RC Sportsman," a tabloid/newsprint publication that continued monthly until May 1978. Eventually, the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA), which had its newsletter published in "American Modeler," started its own publication: "Model Aviation."

Annual Editions:

American Modeler Annual: Supplemented the regular issues, providing additional content for enthusiasts.

 Editors and Their Tenures:

Albert L. "Al" Lewis (1915 - August 16, 1974): Al Lewis was a significant figure in the magazine's history. He became editor of "Air Trails," which later became "American Modeler." He also edited "Air Progress" and "American Modeler Annual" simultaneously.

G. Harry Stine: A notable contributor to "American Modeler," providing articles on model rocketry and other topics. 

Dr. Billy Crisler: While not directly associated with "American Modeler," Dr. Crisler is the managing editor of "Aerospace Modeler Magazine," which has been in publication since January 2005 and focuses on similar topics.

Content and Focus:

"American Modeler" featured a diverse range of content, including:

Feature Articles and Plan Drawings: Detailed guides and blueprints for model building.

Product Reviews: Evaluations of the latest model kits, engines, and related equipment.

Contest Coverage: Reports on model aircraft competitions and events.

Advertisements: Information on new products and services in the modeling industry.

The magazine played a pivotal role in the modeling community, providing enthusiasts with valuable information, inspiration, and a platform to share their passion for model aviation.

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