Heirlooms can be just about anything: jewelry, furniture even barware! Enter the Southern Airways jigger collection.

From 1949 to 1979, Southern Airways operated as a regional carrier connecting the southeastern United States. Passengers flew on prop-driven aircraft with cabin service that leaned into Southern hospitality. The branded jiggers, small shot glasses stamped with the Southern Airways logo were gifts to employees to celebrate the airline’s yearly anniversaries. Today, they are artifacts of an airline, an industry, and often, a family story.

At first glance, a Southern Airways jigger doesn’t shout for attention. They might be compact, but these are artifacts of mid‑century airline culture, when flying was an event and drinks came measured, mixed, and served with confidence.

So, if you find one in your drawer, or spot one tucked into a display case, consider this your cue to raise an imaginary glass—to Southern Airways, and to the delightful fact that history sometimes comes in one‑ounce increments.

This is a complete collection and can be viewed on our public catalog.

Cheers to that.

Many thanks to Stephanie Belcher (left) and Kathryn Cassidy (right), who donated a wonderful collection of items from their parents’ career to the Delta Flight Museum. 

Howard “Gene” and Kerry Belcher both worked on the operations side. Gene began his career with Southern Airways and Republic Airlines. He then co-found Republic Express (as Executive Vice President of Phoenix Airline Services). Kerry worked for Southern Airways, Republic Airlines and Northwest Airlines. Kerry and Gene met in 1972 while working at Southern Airways then married in 1974. 

We appreciate your generous gift that helps preserve the history of the Delta Family tree.