In her “My Day” column written on May 10, 1937, Mrs. Roosevelt reflected on the crash of the Hindenburg: “In all of these efforts men give their lives but each loss of life brings something new to the sum total of knowledge which advances mankind as a whole. Just as I took off the news had come of the horrible accident to the Hindenburg. All of us grieved over the loss of life, it seemed even more pathetic when the journey was really done. Many of us I imagine, felt a deep sympathy with the German people who have pioneered in this field and won such great success, and now must feel such grief and disappointment. The interesting thing to me, however, was that no one I saw suggested for a minute that we would not go on with experiments on lighter than air craft. All the discussion was over what occasioned the accident and how best it could be prevented. Therein lies the greatness of man. Fear is never allowed to dominate that desire for greater knowledge and as long as mankind retains that spirit we will move forward.” To read the full article, visit the “My Day” archives hosted by George Washington University.

Eleanor found out about the accident between boarding planes in Chicago and said the incident didn’t affect her feelings about flying.

That week, FDR sent Hitler a condolence message, offering, “you and the German people my deepest sympathy for the tragic loss of life.” Hitler thanked FDR for the note later in the week.