ALEXANDRIA, La. (WNTZ) – Alexandria International Airport (AEX) unveiled new murals and historical markers Friday honoring two central Louisiana inventors whose early aviation patents contributed to the industry’s growth.

The ceremony recognized the legacies of Charles Frederick Page of Pineville and Paul Leo Ortego of Alexandria, both of whom were granted patents by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for their aviation innovations.

Page, believed to have been born enslaved in Rapides Parish, built a flyable airship in 1904 and received a patent two years later. He planned to display his invention at the Louisiana Purchase World’s Fair, but it disappeared in transit. He later became known for fostering African American entrepreneurship and homeownership in his community.

Ortego, a World War I pilot, patented a helicopter design in 1926 after building the first functional model in 1922. His design allowed for both vertical and horizontal flight, with elements still used in modern helicopters. Ortego also worked on aircraft design and tested concepts including a flying car.

“It’s an honor to not only display these permanent reminders of their inventions, but also to host members of the Ortego and Page families and the aviation community,” said Ralph Hennessy, executive director of England Airpark, which oversees AEX.

The event featured remarks from Hennessy, historian and author Michael Wynne, Page’s grandson Joseph P. Page, and Ortego’s niece Marian Nevill. The murals were created by Jed and Liz Cornett of Smoking Monk Studio.

The recognition underscores Alexandria’s historic role in aviation and innovation. England Airpark, which includes AEX, spans 4,000 acres and supports sectors from aviation and transportation to manufacturing and education.