Aviation Pioneers |
 | DATELINE...100 YEARS AGO THIS WEEK...344. ORVILLE WRIGHT (1871-1948). With his brother Wilbur, made the first successful self-propelled airplane. The first flight with Orville at the controls lasted 12 seconds. Printed SP on card, b/w, 51/2"x4" still of Orville's first flight at Kitty Hawk on Dec 17, 1903. This famous image is boldly signed in black ink. Light mounting abrasions and residue on verso at corner tips; else Fine. Among his accomplishments, Orville also developed the first wind tunnel (1901); discovered movable, vertical tail to avoid tailspins (1902); and became president of American Wright Co. after the death of his brother Wilbur in 1912. MB: $1500
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 | 345. WILBUR WRIGHT (1867-1912). Inventor with his brother Orville of the first practical airplane; tested and proved at Kitty Hawk that planes could be balanced best by pilots rather than built-in engineering devices, the idea on which they based their first Wright patent. Wilbur was second to fly their plane after his brother made the first flight at Kitty Hawk. He became president of American Wright Co. until his death from typhoid fever. Partly printed DS, a bank check drawn on The Winters National Bank, Dayton, OH, Apr 20, 1907. To the order of "Chas E Taylor" in the amount of $18.00 and signed by Wilbur as "Wright Cycle Co." and initialing beneath, "W.W." Check is completed in his holograph. Three light vertical folds; cut cancellation and spindle puncture in blank area; punch cancellation touches top stroke of letter "C" in "Co"; else a Fine example. The Wrights employed CHARLES E. TAYLOR (1868-1956) at Dayton in 1901. From their designs, Taylor built a four-cylinder engine that produced 12 horsepower. It was installed in their plane and provided the power that enabled Orville to make his historic flight on Dec 17, 1903. Taylor built other successful engines for the Wright brothers and assisted in other phases of their enterprise, accompanying them to Europe and at Fort Myer, VA, where the airplane was successfully demonstrated for the Army. Taylor is a member of the National Aviation Hall of Fame in Dayton, along with the Wright Brothers. MB: $1500
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 | 346. ORVILLE WRIGHT Partly-printed DS, a bank check drawn on The Winters National Bank & Trust Co. Dayton, Sep 25, 1947. To the order of Mabel Beck in the amount of $73.71. Boldly signed in black ink. Handsomely matted beside b/w portrait and printed photograph of the famous 1903 flight with two descriptive plaques. Contained under glass within wood frame. Overall 20"x181/2". An impressive display. MB: $400
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 | 347. ORVILLE WRIGHT Partly printed DS, a bank check drawn on The City National Bank, Dayton, Ohio, Nov 17, 1920. To the order of "The Dayton Gas Company" for "35 cents." Boldly signed and completed in his hand. Punch Paid cancellation well away from signature; vertical fold lightly transverses first name; else Fine example. MB: $400
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 | WRIGHT EX 'VIN FIZ'348. [WRIGHT BROTHERS] A 2"x2" section of the wing fabric of the Wright EX biplane Vin Fiz which in 1911 was piloted by Calbraith P. Rogers in the first transcontinental flight in an attempt to win a $50,000 prize offered by William Randolph Hearst. Taking off from Long Island, Rogers landed in Pasadena 82 hours and two minutes later, flying at an average speed of 62 mph with 70 landings en route. The fabric is affixed to 141/4"x191/4" linen-textured print featuring a 10"x8" photograph of the plane in flight above the relic and a printed script description beneath. In Fine condition, ideal for display. Accompanied by certificate of authenticity together with detailed information about the plane and its historic flight from the National Air and Space Museum of the Smithsonian Institution. MB: $500
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 | AVIATION PIONEERS COMPETE FOR $25,000 PRIZE THAT SENT LINDBERGH ON FLIGHT OF DREAMS349. [RAYMOND ORTEIG HISTORICAL ARCHIVE] In 1927 when the world's imagination was fired with the possibilities of flight, seven men vied for a prize first offered in 1919 with no takers: $25,000 to be awarded 'to the first aviator who shall cross the Atlantic in a land or water aircraft (heavier than air) from Paris or the shores of France to New York or from New York to Paris without a stop.' Such a prize today worth approx $750,000 was offered by French-born New York hotelier Raymond Orteig to encourage flight between New York and Paris. Entering the fray were Noel Davis, Commander Byrd, Clarence Chamberlin, and Charles Lindbergh from the United States and Charles Nungesser, Paul Tarascon and René Fonck from France. Consisting of over 85 signed documents and letters plus twelve telegrams and radiograms documenting the events leading up to Lindbergh's historic flight, all in excellent condition and preserved within a fine calfskin binder. MB: $12000
Signed applications include: 1) PAUL TARASCON (no date); 2) Paul Tarascon (Apr 25, 1925); 3) RENÉ FONCK (Apr 19, 1926) - Notarized; 4) H.E. HARTNEY for Argonauts, Inc. (Apr 19, 1926) - Notarized; 5) NOEL DAVIS (Apr 27, 1926) - Notarized; 6) Noel Davis (Mar 2, 1927) - Notarized; 7) René Fonck (Apr 27, 1927) - Notarized; 8) CLARENCE D. CHAMBERLIN (May 10, 1927) - Notarized. Only Lindbergh's is missing which resides in the Smithsonian. However, present is a signed certification by NAA contest committee secretary C. F. Schory "that the entry of Charles A. Lindbergh, for the Raymond Orteig $25,000 prize for the New York-Paris transatlantic flight, accompanied by certified check for $250, was received....on February 28, 1927..."
FRENCH WAR ACE AND NATIONAL HERO RENÉ FONCK ENTERS THE FIELD
TLS "René Fonck," 1p, 4to, NY, Apr 19, 1926. On General Airways System letterhead to the Contest Committee advising his appointment of The Argonauts Inc. as his agent, adding "...the starting place selected is Roosevelt Field, Westbury, Long Island and the landing place is Bourget Aerodrome, Paris, France, both approximate but probably exact. It is requested that you take the necessary steps to have officials...present at both places on or about Jun 19, 1926...I will keep you advised at all times of any changes..." TLS, Apr 30, 1926. To the Contest Committee question their rejection of his application on technical grounds and submits a new one. In part, "...I firmly believe that my letter of confirmation covers the technical omissions made in the original entry and also believe that the Contest Committee will accept the original entry when this whole matter can be presented...at a meeting to be held May 4th of this year..."
THE ARGONAUTS, INC. IS FORMED SETTING THE SCENE FOR FONCK'S TRANSATLANTIC ATTEMPT
TLsS by Colonel HAROLD HARTNEY, 1p each, NYC, Jan 21 - Jul 28, 1926. Mostly on General Airways System letterhead to the National Aeronautic Assn. In part, "...If you have formulated any regulations for the conduct of the Non-stop New York to Paris Flight for the Raymond Orteig prize, would you be so good as to forward same to me?..." He requests ten copies of the Entry Regulations and forms for distribution among his associates. "...to visualize your printed regulation form may unable [sic] us to speed up before some one else gets there ahead of us...We do not expect the flight will take off before the 15th of June...I had a letter from Mr. Sidney Veit of Paris in which he states that the Aero Club of France had not been advised of the renewal of Mr. Raymond Orteig's offer..." He poses the first question regarding dropping of the landing gear and gas tanks. "Is it permissible to drop the landing gear or a portion thereof and one or two of the tanks in flight?...I believe that even though the tanks may be sealed before departure you will o.k. such a procedure because tanks dropped over-board, seals and all in tact, could not be construed but as the using up of fuel on board when the ship took off. This is really very important to us because we would like to be able to drop some of the outside tanks after the first four or five hours in order that our head resistance might be for a long period of time considerably reduced..." He advises that a "special Company, 'The Argonauts Inc.' has, as you probably know, has been incorporated for the Trans-Atlantic flight and in making the attached entry we have made it out in the name of the Company and of the pilot, Capt. René Fonck..." Later, he asks if there "was any definite decision arrived at in the meeting of your committee on the subject of dropping the landing gear and some of the tanks on the Trans-Atlantic Flight?...We are contemplating fixing an auxiliary landing gear for the purpose of insuring high safety factor for the take-off for the overloading. Should we use this in the take-off, we will undoubtedly drop it soon afterwards..." On The Argonauts, Inc. letterhead, Hartney writes, "...We are enclosing some data on our Trans-Atlantic flight, and shortly will be unable to send other photographs. You will be notified officially of the exact date of the 'take-off' which from present indications will be somewhere about August 25th. We are contemplating making a few attempts for World Records but will advise you as to this later..."
LETTERS OF LIEUT. COMMANDER NOEL DAVIS OFFICIALLY ENTERING THE COMPETITION
TLsS, 1p each, Washington, DC, Feb 17 - Mar 2, 1927. To the Contest Committee on Navy department Bureau of Navigation letterhead. Davis follows up on his original entry with updated information and specifics on the aircraft. He transmits a second entry, noting, "...This second entry is made with the understanding that, should the first attempt to make this flight be unsuccessful, a second entry complying is [sic] all respects to the rules governing an original entry is necessary. If this understanding is incorrect and a second entry is not required, or does not need to be made within a period of sixty days prior to taking off, it is requested that this entry be returned to me at the above address together with the certified check for $250.00 herewith enclosed..." Plus brief ALS "Noel," on similar letterhead, "Porter [Adams] - For your information, sound judgment, and action or inaction as the kick requires. Keystone is not, of course, the least interested in me..." Adams was president of NAA.
LT. DAVIS AND CO-PILOT LT. BOB WOOSTER IN THE AIRPLANE AMERICAN LEGION CRASHED ON TAKEOFF DURING LOAD TESTS AND WERE KILLED ON APR 26.
ORIGINAL MINUTES OF THE CONTEST COMMITTEE MEETING ADDRESSING THE ORTEIG PRIZE
Typescript, 2pp, 4to, Washington, DC, May 4, 1926. An historical overview of the progression of the contest and regarding contest entrants. The decision was made that regarding "Colonel Hartney's request for permission to carry extra gas tanks on the wings which can be dropped after the flight has started, and extra landing gear which can also be dropped...The Committee...approved subject to the approval of the Secretary...In no event an equipment such as gas tanks located in the fuselage be dropped after the flight is started..."
GROUP OF OVER 27 LETTERS OVER A TWO-YEAR PERIOD FROM GEORGE BURLEIGH OF THE LAW OFFICE OF DELAFIELD, THORNE AND BURLEIGH WHO REPRESENTS NEW YORK HOTEL OWNER RAYMOND ORTEIG. HIGHLIGHTS FROM BEHIND THE SCENES COORDINATION OF THE COMPETITION
TLsS "George W. Burleigh" (four secretarially), 4to, 1-2pp each, NY, May 21, 1925-May 18, 1927. On his law office letterhead to the National Aeronautic Assn. To Godfrey L. Cabot, then president of the NAA, Colonel Burleigh writes renewing the $25,000 Prize and naming the trustees and stipulating the formation of a Flight Committee made up of NAA officials and using the Army & Navy Club of America as its headquarters. The entry form submitted for review would eventually be the one signed by all the entrants. To C.F. Schory who would become the Contest Committee chairman with a similar letter and including the proposed organization of the committee. To Howard Wehrle, secretary of the NAA, with contents of telegrams sent to him from Orteig in Paris regarding the flight entrance of Tarascon. To Schory advising him that "Mr. Orteig deposited $25,000 of negotiable securities with the Bryant Park Bank...and a trust agreement was duly executed..." To the secretary of the NAA which sets them as the lead official entity of the Orteig Prize. In part, "...1. 'Each attempt' does not mean 'each start.' An attempt could properly be construed to be included within the period of say thirty days from the first start made. 2. 'The aviator holding an FAI certificate' should be interpreted to mean the pilot who must hold an FAI certificate and to whom the prize would be paid. 3...the place of landing seems to be definitely defined in the agreement, namely, within fifty miles of New York or Paris, except when a seaplane or flying boat is used, when the start and landing place be on any point of the cost of France but must be within fifty miles of New York if on this side..." He continues, "The interpretation of the regulations is entirely in the hands of the National Aeronautic Association and I think we both will understand that any supervision by officials in France must be the Aero Club of France, under the jurisdiction of the Federation Aeronautique Internationale, with representatives of the National Aeronautical Association as part of the contest officials..." Burleigh documents the return of a check for Paul Tarascon for an entry application that had not been completed. An important letter of Feb 2, 1926, concerning how money is to be raised for the flight advises, "...My interpretation of the terms of the application for the Raymond Orteig Flight in regard to the money raised by the pilot for the undertaking is that it does not in any way concern us. Where or how he gets the money to support his flight is none of our business, providing it is done honestly. It is only the actual start, flight and landing over which we have any control. Is this your interpretation; and would there be any objection to an aviator's getting money through newspaper support? I can see no objection to it personally..." On Mar 1, 1927, the entry of CHARLES A. LINDBERGH is acknowledged. With respect to aviators trying for the Orteig Prize, Burleigh writes, "...In view of the different items appearing in the newspapers as to aviators trying for the Orteig Prize without previous entry, I think it would be very advisable for someone in our organization to give to the press the requirement to win the prize. This would not only be fair to your organization but also to those who have made bona fide entries, and would set at rest any possible questions that a man could secure the prize without making any proper entry in our organization or in that in France and without conforming to our requirements..." A check in the amount of $250.00 as entry of René Fonck is transmitted to Schory. Changes in the entry form are made indicative of the close competition evolving for the Prize. Further emphasis is made on the prize being awarded to the "first aviator to make the fight and who has in every way complied with the requirements of the Orteig Prize."
PERSPECTIVE FROM THE NATIONAL AERONAUTIC ASSOCIATION INCLUDING BOTH IN-HOUSE CORRESPONDENCE AND COMMUNICATION WITH THEIR FRENCH COUNTERPARTS
Group of eleven letters, mostly TLsS, 1p each, Washington, DC, Nov 4, 1925 - Jan 13, 1927. On National Aeronautic Association of U.S.A. letterhead. To Sidney B. Veit [president of the Foreign Committee NAA] in Paris. In French with English translation. "...In a letter received recently Colonel Hartney, Vice-President of the General Airways System...informs us that the Aero Club of France has not received notice of the renewal of the prize offered by Mr. Raymond Orteig. I am certain that the copies of the regulations were sent to the Aero Club of France at the time when the aviator, Mr. Tarascon, made preparations for his Paris-New York flight...If one of the entrants desires to leave from New York, it is understood that the Aero Club of France will take the necessary measure to control the making land, etc. following the regulations of the Orteig prize. We are prepared to control in the same manner the flight leaving from Paris..." To George Besançon (secretary general of the Aero Club of France) with French translation regarding the acceptance by the Contest Committee of two entries for the non-stop flight between New York and Paris: Captain René Fonck, accepted Apr 20, 1926; and Mr. Noel Davis, accepted Apr 28, 1926. "...In accordance with the regulations, Captain Fonck may start his flight on June 20th, and Mr. Davis eight days later, i.e. June 28th...By a later communication we will advise as to the dates the attempt will be made, weather conditions and preparations permitting. When the flight has actually started, we will notify the Aero Club of France by cable. We trust the Aero Club of France will be kind enough to forward papers confirming the final landing should the pilots be successful in reaching the shores of France..." To Schory from Veit assuring the NAA that the Aero Club of France will "lend their cooperation in any of the transatlantic flights from New York to France..." To Schory from Veit referencing discussion with Mr. Besançon and questions he set forth. "...I. Suppose a plane starts and returns to its base on account of motor or any other trouble. II. Suppose a plane starts and returns but is unable to reach its base. III. Suppose a plane is off for several hours but returns for various reasons, either to its base or elsewhere. Are these starts or attempts considered final and subject to a new re-entry with another deposit of $250 and a delay of 60 days? Or will a limited number of attempts be permitted within a limited number of hours within the same day? Mr. Besançon believes that a specific ruling should be made before hand to avoid any contentions if there should happen to be several contestants at about the same time, flying from France or from the United States. The competitive element for a transatlantic flight might be aroused by the recent successful competitions, almost simultaneous, for the North Pole [referring to Commander Byrd and Roald Amundsen]. Mr. Besançon assumes that the Raymond Orteig's prize of $25,000 goes to the first successful transatlantic flight winners and not be divided, if simultaneous flights are made. Such points should be covered explicitly..." An ALS by B. F. Castle, treasurer, to Schory stating that he feels the "Raymond Orteig entrance fees should be kept segregated in order to draw interest." To Castle from Schory regarding an entry for Paul Tarascon, "...The backers of Paul Tarascon have probably fell down on the proposition in some way or he may have failed to forward the amount of the entry fee to reimburse Mr. Burleigh. These Frenchmen seem to be a hard lot to deal with..." Tarascon's flight eventually foundered for lack of funds.
SERIES OF LETTERS GIVE THE FIRST INDICATION THAT CHARLES LINDBERGH WOULD ATTEMPT THE FLIGHT
ALS "A.B. Lambert," 1p, 4to, St. Louis, [Jan 1927]. On imprinted letterhead to C.F. Schory of the NAA, "...Chas A. Lindbergh air mail pilot with the Robertson Aircraft Co. from Chicago to St. Louis is getting ready for a transatlantic flight from New York to Paris. The necessary amount of money, according to his estimates has been raised in St. Louis and the plane has been ordered. This is strictly confidential so please do not give it out or any information. Lindbergh wants to make an endurance test in St. Louis before the start, the test to take place the early part of March. For this purpose, he requests the sanctions of the NAA and the appointment of necessary officials etc. At present he does not want to name the type of plane or its specifications until absolute definite figures can be given..." With copy of Schory's reply. HARRY KNIGHT, legal and financial advisor to Lindbergh, writes to the Contest Committee. ALS, 1p, 8vo, Webster Groves, MO, Feb 26, 1927. On his imprinted letterhead, signs "Chas. A. Lindbergh" for his friend. "Gentlemen:- It is intended that the flight shall begin from Roosevelt Field Long Island and the land at Le Bourget Airport. If the above starting and landing points are not satisfactory, please advise..." TLS on Knight, Dysart & Gamble letterhead, 1p, 4to, St. Louis, Mar 21, 1927. Requesting specifications changes to the Contest Committee, he writes in part, "...Referring to Charles A. Lindbergh's entry...we request authority to change the specifications s follows: 'Wing aera [sic] 320 square feet, loading 15 pounds per square foot'..."
LINDBERGH RESPONDS TO CONCERNS REGARDING HIS DROPPING HIS LANDING GEAR
TLS "Harry Knight", 1p, 4to, St. Louis, Mar 28, 1927. Responding to Contest Committee concern, he writes in part, "...In reply to your letter of March 25th, stating that you had been advised of a rumor that Charles A. Lindbergh intended to drop his landing gear after taking off on his Trans-Atlantic flight, beg to advise you that I am today in receipt of a telegram from Charles A. Lindbergh stating that he has no such intention and therefore you may disregard such statement..." He thanks them for giving permission for requested wing changes.
LETTERS FROM THE AERO-CLUB OF FRANCE
Two TLsS, 1p each, 4to, Mar 15-Apr 19, 1927. On Aéro-Club of France letterhead. In French with English translations. To the secretary of the Contest Committee from the chief secretary informing him that, regarding Lindbergh's planned flight, they will "take all necessary measures for performing the control operations upon arrival at Le Bourget..." To the president of NAA from the executive secretary, M. Jaffeux Tissof, regarding the plans of Frenchman Charles Nungesser and advising that the "first tests of the plane are now being made" and that no other entries had been received. [Nungesser had announced his intention of making the Paris to New York flight in 1926.]
LETTERS FROM COLUMBIA AIRCRAFT CORPORATION, SPONSOR OF CLARENCE CHAMBERLIN
TLsS [secretarially], 1p each, 4to, NY, May 10-13, 1927. Chamberlin encloses entry form and fee and requests the NAA waive the sixty-day notice. He replies to telegram advising the waiver cannot be made, stating that "...unless you reconsider this it is requested that you return to me, in care of the above address, my check in the amount of $250.00 As we plan to hop off within the next day or so, it would be useless for me to invest $250.00 in something that cannot give me any return..." Paradoxically, Chamberlin pens beneath, "Dear Schory, Please disregard this letter. Clarence Chamberlin."
COMPETITION FEVER RISES: OTHER REQUESTS FOR ENTRY FORMS AND INFORMATION
Three letters relating to entrance requirements for the Orteig Prize. TLS, 1p, 4to, NY, Mar 21, 1927, from the secretary-treasurer of Sikorsky Manufacturing Corporation to the NAA requesting "three entry forms for the...competition covering the nonstop flight from New York to Paris..." Two TLsS "HARRY G. YERG," 4to, 1p each, Sep-Oct, 1925. On his personal letterhead. To the NAA requesting a "list of prizes offered for various feats of flying, such as the flight from Paris to New York am interested in money prizes only..." To the Army & Navy Club of America re the Orteig prize and requesting an FAI Certificate. He asks, "...Will you also let me know if the entrance fee is refundable under the following conditions: (a) that someone else receives the prize prior to the time this flight is to be attempted. (b) If, for any reason, the flight is canceled and no attempt made..." The "American Non-Stop Trans-Atlantic Flight" Headquarters notifies NAA of flight entry plans. ALS "Winston Ehrgott" as crewmember, 11/2pp, 4to, NY, Apr 18, 1927. To the secretary, NAA on official letterhead. In part, "...I wish to notify you of the desire of this crew to compete for the Orteig Prize...However, we would not wish to bind ourselves to wait until the expiration of a specified length of time before making our attempt...will you please mail complete information..." With copy of reply.
LETTER DETAILING FRENCH PLANS FOR THE EVENT
TLS "R. C. WOOD," 1p, 4to, Paris, Apr 20, 1927. To Porter Adams, president NAA. In part, "...There is a great deal of interest over here now concerning the Trans Atlantic Flights that should soon take place. At this writing it seems as if Commander Davis would be the first American to 'take off.' His plane is christened 'American Legion' as you know and the Paris Post is making preparations to receive him. I am Chairman of the Aviation Committee and am attending to the details on the Aviation end, such as getting le Bourget Airport lighted up and the Paris-London Route. La Direction Generale de l'Aeronautique here have also promised me to operate the big new search light of Mont Valerien that night. We are also asking the Navy Department to light Lesay Search Light at Cherbourg..."
TELEGRAMS AND RADIOGRAMS
Group of over twelve communications dated May 9-24 regarding the flights of Nungesser/Coli and Lindbergh.
To Schory from Castle: "Have arranged with Lt. Elliott commanding officer Miller Field to take charge of barograph as if and when Nungesser plane arrives." To NAA from Committee Paris Chapter: "Due to Dept. of French feelings over loss Nungesser and Coli strongly advise against any American Transatlantic flight until French flyers have been accounted for and suitable period elapsed." To Schory from NAA: Recaps cable from Committee Paris Chapter. To Aeroclub Paris from NAA: "We extend our deepest sympathies and still have faith that the courageous aviators Nungesser and Coli will be found..."
LINDBERGH ARRIVES AT ROOSEVELT FIELD
Telegrams, May 11-24, 1927. To Schory from W.E. Blaine: "Captain Lindbergh will arrive Curtiss Field Long Island Thursday Evening May twelfth and will leave for transatlantic flight as soon thereafter as possible...Please arrange to have someone present to take care necessary details connection Orteig Prize..." To Blaine from Schory: "Will arrive Garden City Hotel late tonight to authenticate start..." To Schory from Burleigh: "If National Aeronautic Association approves payment wire me at once We will deliver prize with appropriate celebration when Lindbergh returns to this country..." To Burleigh from Schory: "National Aeronautic Association approves payment Orteig Prize to Charles Lindbergh upon his return to this country..."
MANY MORE ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS, LETTERS RELATING TO THE FLIGHT PLUS TELEGRAMS AND NEWSPAPER CLIPPINGS DESCRIBING THE CONTEST. AN HISTORICALLY SIGNIFICANT AND HIGHLY DESIRABLE ARCHIVAL COLLECTION OF TRANSOCEANIC FLIGHT.
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 | EARHART, UDET, POST AND MORE350. [1931 NATIONAL AIR RACES] Complete issue of the 1931 National Air Races Official Program, 71pp, 9"x12". This eleventh annual event was staged in Cleveland Aug 29 to Sep 7, 1931. The colorful matte cover is signed by eleven early aviators plus three autographs within. Light soiling; edge wear; occasional abrasions on cover; spine neatly reinforced with tape; internally clean with corner wear; else in very good condition. Signing on the cover are AMELIA EARHART, who also signs beneath her image on p.51; ARTHUR GOEBEL; BETTE LUND, a tad light; RUTH ELDER CAMP; famed German World War I ace ERNST UDET, representing Germany, who also signs across his image on p.61; and R.L.R. ATCHERLEY representing England; also WILEY POST, a bit faded; EDDIE STINSON; PANCHO BARNES; W. L. STRIBLING; MILO BURCHAM, whose signature is partially obscured by tape reinforcing spine. DOROTHY HESTER signs beside her image on p.18. There are many aviation pioneers pictured throughout the pages and interesting articles offering insight into aviation in the early '30s. A wonderful collectible recalling aviation's golden age of air racing. MB: $900
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 | 351. HENRY H. [HAP] ARNOLD (1886-1950). Commanding general of the US Army Air Corps in World War II who long, and successfully, advocated a separate air force ranking equally with the Army and the Navy. One of a select group to achieve the rank of "Five Star General." Early TDS "H H Arnold," 1p, 8"x13", Coronado, CA, Aug 30, 1923. Official Directors' Sheets on onionskin, headed "Headquarters Rockwell Air Intermediate Depot Office of the Post Commander, Rockwell Field." Memorandum to the Contest Committee, National Aeronautical Assn in Washington, DC, recording statistics for "Duration and Distance" of test flight of DH-4 on Aug 27-28 at Rockwell Field using a Liberty motor with 400 HSP piloted by Lieutenants Lowell H. Smith and John P. Richter, and clocking a distance of 3,293.26 miles in 37:15:14:4. Signed also by two other Directors and three Timers. All have boldly signed. Center horizontal crease; multiple staple punctures and file hole tears at top edge; else VG/Fine. Plus TLS "H H Arnold" as brigadier general, 1p, 8"x101/2", Washington, DC, Jan 30, 1936. On War Department Office of the Chief of the Air Corps letterhead to Charles F. Horner, President of the National Aeronautic Assn. Regarding the award of the F.A.I. gold medal for that year, he writes in part, "I have noted the suggestion...that Mr. Ellsworth be considered for this award and am heartily in favor of such consideration..." Boldly signed as Acting Chief of the Air Corps. Paper clip stain at top margin; else Fine. MB: $200
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 | 352. HENRY H. [HAP] ARNOLD TLS "H. H. Arnold," 1p, 8"x101/2", Washington, DC, Dec 10, 1945. On Headquarters, Army Air Forces letterhead to W. P. Redding, Collier Trophy Committee, National Aeronautic Assn. Arnold accepts an invitation "to be present at the presentation of the Collier Trophy by President Truman at the White House" on Dec 17. Boldly signed. Fine example. MB: $100
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 | 353. SIR RICHARD L. R. ATCHERLEY (1904-1970). British air marshal, 'Batchy' was winner of the King's Cup Race in 1929. Signed 5"x3" beige card. Boldly penned beneath sentiment. Small newspaper photo affixed at right margin. With transmittal Air Mail cover postmarked in Amman Feb 12, 1931. Fine. MB: $50
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 | 354. [BALLOONING] Important archive of letters and documents relating to Count PAULO ANDREANI (1763-1823), documented as making the first self-feed balloon ascent. Included is a detailed letter that challenges history in which Andreani discusses an ascent in a letter to his brother. ALS "Paulo" in Italian, 1p, 71/2"x9". Andreani writes in part, "I come to Milan very quickly for two hours only, and at this moment I am coming back to your country of Moncucco. Today we have decided to make another attempt of flight, before beginning to make some modification to the machine since it is absolutely certain that what happened yesterday evening was due to the irregular combustion and not to the necessary maneuvers. Please keep this news to yourself since there is no secure probability for a good result. I wanted only to inform you just to don't give you a surprise in case of success...From the house of Cavalchina the morning of Tuesday at 18 hours..." Docketed on verso, "1774 24 Febb." Fine condition. Also present is a 1784 poem in honor of the "Courageous Don Paolo Andreani" printed by the Pius Association of Music; plus two printed pamphlets on Andreani and his "Aerostatic Machine." Translated. Also, his certificate of admission into the Arcadia Academy, two French passports (1802) signed by Minister CACAULT and the French ambassador; Andreani's British passport to Portugal of 1802; and his Italian passport for a trip from Rome to Naples in January 1801. Together with two letters with translations, 1802 and 1806, from friends of Andreani describing life under Napoleon's rule with interesting war news regarding the Emperor's victories in Prussia and his occupation of the Castle of Frederic the Great. There is also a fine bronze medal displaying relief image of Paolo Andreani and a hot air balloon, 13/4" in diameter. A superb early balloon aviation collection. MB: $10000
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 | 355. [BALOONS FOR DEFENSE] TLS, 1p, 8"x101/2", Washington, DC, Apr 20, 1932. On Navy Department Bureau of Aeronautics letterhead, Captain A. B. COOK writes to William Enyart, Contest Committee, National Aeronautic Assn with regard to the "free balloon for military defense." The Navy Department believes that it has military training value because "ballooning develops to a high degree every faculty requisite to a lighter-than-air pilot. During the Civil War the balloon was employed as a part of the military defense but since that time it has been relegated to the training status it now holds..." He encloses "an article on lighter-than-air training [present], as carried out at the Naval Air Station, Lakehurst, New Jersey" and several photographs. Boldly signed as Acting Chief of the Bureau. Lightly toned; file holes at top edge; else VG. Accompanied by lengthy descriptive Press Release referenced; an 8"x10" photograph of an illustration of "The First Naval Aeronautic Operation Ever Conducted" in 1861 aboard the steamer G.W.P. Custis which plied the waters between Washington and Mount Vernon, with description of proceedings laid to verso. Very nice military ballooning collection. MB: $100
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 | 356. [WORLD BALLOON RECORD OF 1933] On Nov 20, 1933, Lieutenant Commander Thomas G. W. Settle, USN, set a world altitude balloon record (62,237 ft.) in flight into stratosphere. He was accompanied by Major Chester Fordney, USMC, as a scientific observer. TDS, 11/2pp, 81/2"x13", Washington, DC, Apr 21, 1934. Recommendation to the Federation Aeronautique Internationale in Paris "By Way of the National Aeronautic Association" subscribed by Dr. ARTHUR H. COMPTON, professor of physics at the University of Chicago; RUFUS C. DAWES, president of A Century of Progress; and FRANK KNOX, editor and publisher of The Chicago Daily News. They recommend that the gold medal for the year 1933 be awarded to Lieutenant Commander Settle for his accomplishment "through application of superior technique of his own development for safe high altitude ballooning...a distinct contribution to the science of aeronautics. The mission...was to obtain...meteorological data, data pertaining to the physics of the upper air and data concerning the intensity and nature of the cosmic ray...and marked a new utilization of aeronautics in adding to the total of human knowledge..." Light general toning; 1/2" right edge tear with no paper loss; minor wear; else VG. Accompanied by two copies of Friez Barograph with statistics in excellent condition, one evidencing a paper clip stain at top edge. MB: $100
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 | 357. SQUEEK BARNET (1913-?). Virginia stunt pilot performing at popular air races of the day. Signed commemorative Air Mail cover postmarked at Cleveland Sep 3, 1939. Boldly penned in green ink. General toning; else Fine. MB: $50
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 | 358. TED BELLAK Set world record in gliding by crossing Lake Michigan from Sturgeon Bay, WI, in 52 minutes, flying his German built Minimoa, the longest crossing of water ever made by a soaring plane. Boldly signed Air Mail cover postmarked at Frankfort, MI, Jun 16, 1939. Fine. MB: $40
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 | 359. J. EWELL BOYD (1892-1960). Called the "Lindbergh of Canada," the WW I pilot was the first Canadian to fly across the Atlantic in 1930. Two Air Mail covers on which he traces this famous flight "Canada to London Oct 9/30" and on the second he adds, "N.Y. Bermuda & Return June 29/30." Boldly penned above cutout photos laid to left margins. Light toning; else Fine. Boyd flew his plane, the Columbia, which next to Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis, was the most famous plane of the decade, across the Atlantic on his first world record, a New York-Bermuda nonstop/return flight and then on a world record Washington-Haiti nonstop/return flight. MB: $150
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 | 360. MILDRED BRUCE (1895-1990). Record breaker on land, sea and in the air. She drove for 24 hours in a Bentley at an average speed of 90 MPH. Having purchased an aircraft from a store in Regent Street, London, she flew around the world. She was also a pioneer of in-air refueling, following a nonstop flight of 55 hours around the Isle of Wight. During the 1930's she set up her own airline company, employing the world's first air stewardess between London and Paris. Air Mail cover postmarked in NY on Feb 7, 1931. Boldly signed in margin. MB: $50
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 | BYRD PREPARES FOR SECOND ANTARCTIC EXPEDITION361. RICHARD E. BYRD (1888-1957). American Admiral, aviator and polar explorer; author; awarded Congressional Medal of Honor. Two TLsS "Dick Byrd," 1p, 81/2"x11", Boston, May 22, 1933. On his personal imprinted address letterhead to Senator Hiram Bingham of the National Aeronautical Assn in Washington. Preparing for his second Antarctic expedition during which he discovered Marie Byrd Land and Edsel Ford Mountain, Byrd hastily writes expressing appreciation for books sent him, noting "...Mrs. Byrd also has became interested, which is unusual for her. I am very sorry to have caused the delay of the publication of the magazine...As you know I do not seek publicity, since I get too much of it when I am on expeditions, but since you think advisable to write something in the magazine I will be glad to supply you with any information you wish..." In the second letter, Byrd again writes to Bingham regarding details for "junior membership to the model plane builders," noting that he is "just now completely swamped by the expedition matters. My head man has broken down under the strain and I must pitch in day and night..." Penciled annotation at bottom margin in another hand. Hiram Bingham (1875-1956), himself a noted explorer, discovered the Inca capitol at Machu Picchu in 1911. MB: $150
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 | 362. RICHARD E. BYRD TLS "R E Byrd," 1p, approx 71/2"x91/2", New York, Jun 26, 1926. On Byrd Arctic Expedition letterhead to Charles W. Price thanking him for an invitation to the Lotos Club. In part, "...Believe me, it was a very great pleasure to meet so intimate a friend of that great man Admiral R. E. Peary. I do not know whether I shall find opportunity to take advantage of the facilities which your Club has to offer but I wish to place on record my appreciation of our kindness..." Text a little faded though signature is darkly penned. Light general wrinkling; toning; else VG. Nicely matted to overall 121/2"x143/4". MB: $100
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 | 363. SIR ALAN COBHAM (1894-1973). Early English test pilot who demonstrated the practicality of long distance airplane transportation. He was knighted for his flight from London to Cape Town in 1925 and then flew from London to Melbourne and back the following year dramatically landing his seaplane on the Thames next to Parliament. Air Mail cover postmarked in London, 1931. Boldly signed in margin. Light general toning; minor edge wear; else VG/Fine. MB: $50
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 | 364. GLENN H. CURTISS (1878-1930). American pioneer aviator and inventor. TLS "G. H. Curtiss," 1p, 71/4"x7", Hialeah, FL, Apr 21, 1925. On Curtiss-Bright Properties letterhead graciously complying with request for a photograph. General toning, darker at edges; else VG/Fine. MB: $150
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 | 365. JAMES H. DOOLITTLE (1896-1993). American aviator, the first pilot to fly across the US in less than a day (1922). He led the first US air raid on Japan during World War II for which he was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. Collection of three early TLsS "J.H. Doolittle," 1p each, St. Louis, 1931-40. On Shell Petroleum Corporation letterhead to various officials of the National Aeronautic Assn in Washington, DC. The first, Dec 9, 1931, is routine correspondence regarding billing, with accompanying copy of unsigned response. On Sep 9, 1938, Doolittle writes to advise he will be happy to attend "the presentation of the Collier Trophy Award by the President of the United States at Hyde Park on September 16..." Howard Hughes and Assoc. was honored that year for a successful global flight. Lastly, on Jun 25, 1940, he writes, "...Unless there is some objection to making an officer of the National Aeronautic Association chairman of the Collier Award committee, I can think of no one more suitable for the chairman than your own General W. G. Kilner..." All are boldly signed. Receipt or date stamps present; light general toning; else Fine examples. MB: $150
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 | 366. AMELIA EARHART (1898-1937). America's "First Lady of the Air", the first woman to make a transatlantic flight and, later, the first person to fly the Atlantic alone, establishing a new time record in the process. Her 1937 disappearance during a flight around the world remains a mystery. Dark, diagonally penned signature on card, approx 5"x3". Beautifully matted beside b/w, 7"x9" quarter-length portrait and descriptive plaque. Contained under glass within handsome frame. Overall 23"x171/2". Very nice example. MB: $250
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 | 367. [AMELIA EARHART] TLS by Bernt Balchen, 1p, 81/2"x11", New York, Aug 19, 1932. On Ellsworth Trans-Antarctic Flight Expedition letterhead to the National Aeronautical Assn in Washington DC, regarding her transatlantic flight. In full, "I am forwarding to you herewith the reports [not present] on the start of Amelia Earhart from Harbor Grace, Newfoundland, May 20th, in witness form. Hoping these will meet with your approval, I am..." Boldly signed. Accompanied by unsigned TLsS acknowledging receipt by NAA. In this historic first solo flight by a woman on the fifth anniversary of Charles Lindbergh's feat, Earhart also established a flight record of 13 hours 30 minutes, flying a Lockheed Vega from Harbor Grace to Londonderry, Ireland. For this accomplishment she received the Distinguished Flying Cross from the Congress, the Cross of Knight of the Legion of Honor from the French Government, and the Gold Medal of the National Geographic Society from President Hoover. MB: $100
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 | 368. [AMELIA EARHART] ALS "Cecil King," 4pp, 81/4"x7", Derry, Northern Ireland, May 25, 1932. On The Derry Journal letterhead transmitting under separate cover "the barograph which I recovered from the monoplane in which Miss Earhart performed her epic achievement. The removal of the instrument which was witnessed by those whose names are attached to the certificates of landing did not take place until 4:45 (local time) on the evening of May 21st 1932, this being almost three hours after the actual time of the plane's landing in a field at Springfield three miles from this city...Owing to the excitement prevailing we had not an opportunity of closely examining the instrument so that it was recording until 12:15 a.m. (local time) when the pin was shifted to the 'off' position. It was at Miss Earhart's request that I undertook to return the certificates of landing and the barograph..." Accompanied by two fine postcard photographs of Earhart as she prepares for her historic flight. With Harbor Grace, Newfoundland, blindstamps. MB: $100
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 | 369. ROBERT ESNAULT-PELTERIE (1891-1957). French aviation pioneer who invented the aileron; built one of the first monoplanes; and later became interested in space flight. TLS "R Esnault-," 1p, 81/4"x101/2", Boulogne-Sur-Seine, Nov 2, 1933. On his personal letterhead to Meredith Evons in Drexel Hill, PA, a young scientist interested in space flight. Esnault-Pelterie transmits a copy of his book l'Astronautique [not present] and commends Evons having taken a position with DuPont Corporation. However he advises, "as I understand the branch in which you are engaged is rather special, I should advise you to use any time you have free for learning by yourself the general laws of chemistry..." Boldly signed. Laminated on recto for preservation. MB: $100
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 | 370. [FIRST FLIGHT COVERS] Two Air Mail covers commemorating the "First Flight" of Air Mail from Atlanta - Miami. Both have "First Flight" stamps at left margins and are postmarked respectively at Macon, GA and Daytona Beach, FL on Mar 1, 1929. One in excellent condition; the second evidences some wear and stains to back of cover and small paper loss at three corner tips. MB: $50
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 | 371. ROBERT H. GODDARD (1882-1945). American rocket engineer who developed and launched the first successful liquid-fueled rocket (1926), inventing numerous rocketry devices and laying the foundation for space exploration. Early DS, 1p, 12"x15", Worcester, MS, Jun 15, 1925. A Master of Arts degree conferred by Clark University to Russell Byron Hastings "having submitted a dissertation entitled, 'The Emission of Electricity from Substances on Incandescent Carbon.' " Boldly signed by Goddard in full as member of the Faculty. Scattered light foxing; else Fine. MB: $1000
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 | 372. LADY SOPHIE MARY HEATH (1897-1939). Pioneer Irish aviatrix; first woman to fly solo from Cape Town, South Africa to London (1927-28) and setting world altitude records for light planes. Nice collection of one ALS and two TLsS, 6pp, 1928-29. On Hotel Kenmore, Lockport, NY, letterhead Jul 4, [1928], she writes to the National Aeronautic Assn in part, "Sorry to bother the NAA with 2 letters in one week, but it occurs to me it is my duty to do something for you in return for being allowed to pester you with protests. I have 11 weeks of Chatauqua ahead of me with 68 lectures - one in a different town each day, & a flight over the town at noon, landing if there is no airport in any pasture field for the night...Nearly every night some of my audience ask 'How can we help. How can we keep in touch with aviation.' It seems to me that it would help...if I recruited members for the N.A.A. In similar work for the Air League of the British Empire I caught sometimes 1000 members a month. Will you please send me about 1000 circulars about the N.A.A. & enrollment forms & also the addresses of your representatives and governors for New York State, Vermont, & Maine..." Also TLS on her personal imprinted NY address stationery to the Aeronautic Chamber of Commerce in Washington, Mar 16, 1929, in which Lady Heath offers her "very beautiful barograph which I had specially prepared for attempts at records in Great Britain as that country did not have one of this range. This unit records 50,000 ft. in altitude and has a duration of 50 hours...I feel that such an instrument may be very useful to you...and I hope it will bring good luck to those who use it..." On Jul 21, 1929, she writes to the NAA regarding a proposed International Women's body of records she first supported in 1926 and refers to the accompanying copy of a letter to her from the FAI. She asks their aid in compiling "feminine" records. All are boldly signed. File holes at top margins; staple punctures; else VG/Fine. MB: $150
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 | 373. MATTHEW A. HENSON (1866-1955). Black explorer, a member of the expedition headed by Robert Peary to the North Pole in 1909. Henson accompanied Peary on seven polar expeditions as navigator and translator. Commemorative postal cover honoring the 25th Anniversary of the discovery with "Peary Arctic Expedition" cachet. Postmarked at New York on Apr 6, 1934. Boldly signed across cachet in fountain pen. Addressed in another hand. Light toning; else Fine. MB: $400
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 | 374. [LAURA INGALLS] (1905-?). Pioneer aviatrix, a celebrated stunt pilot who was the first woman to make a nonstop cross country flight; won the 1934 Harmon Cup for her fights over South America; first woman to fly solo in the Bendix Cup Race. Correspondence, Official NAA report, application, newspaper clippings and photographs recording the record, biographical information, telegrams, nice 31/2"x5" sepia photograph aboard her Gypsy Moth, etc. contained in Curtiss-Robertson Airplane Manufacturing file, Apr 23-Jun 10, 1930, documenting Ingalls' "unofficial record of 980 loops in a Moth" on May 3, 1930. All in very good condition. Also included is NAA Contest Committee Report for record-setting "Trial for Outside Loops" carried out "to the North of the Los Angles Airport" by pilot Gordon E. Mounce on Jun 29, 1930. Moderate wear and tears at edges with some paper loss at outside margins away from text. Accompanied by two fine 8"x10" photographs. MB: $80
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 | 375. [CHARLES LINDBERGH] (1902-1974). American aviator and engineer who landed his single-engine monoplane at Le Bourget field near Paris in 1927 becoming the first person to fly nonstop in a solo flight across the Atlantic. A national hero, he was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for his autobiography, The Spirit of St. Louis, (1953). Circular copper medal, 23/4" in diameter with bust image of Lindbergh and tracing the perimeter the words "Charles Lindbergh * New York * Paris" with "A.E.Tatis Svae XXV," at lower right of image, by G.Prud Homme. On the reverse is an image of the globe indicating his Atlantic route from NY to Paris with the legend "Alarvm * Remigio * Ivncta * Primvm *Oceani *Littora * MCMXXVII." Fine example. MB: $100
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 | 376. GLENN L. MARTIN (1886-1955). Pioneer American airplane manufacturer who built the B-10 and B-26 bombers of World War II, transoceanic flying boats and clipper airplanes. Two TLsS, 3pp, 81/2"x11", Baltimore, 1937 and 1951. Both on his embossed Glenn L. Martin Company letterhead. The first to Lester Gardner, Institute of Aeronautical Sciences in NY on Aug 17, 1937, regards the procedures for the award of the Collier Trophy. Martin comments at length on the interpretation of "in the deed of gift" by the donor and his intention and quotes the wording. He continues, "Was it the intention of the donor to award the Trophy for the development of an aeronautical device or article or piece of equipment...or was it his intention to award it for a service or other intangible accomplishment. It is my impression that the former award was what he had in mind....The second most important protection is that of eliminating" the use of the award "for political or financial purposes...Would it not be better to have each one of the organizations named in your suggested procedure, with the addition of the Manufacturers Aircraft Association...the name of these committee members to be kept secret so as to limit lobbying by an applicant..." Martin offers other commentary on the procedures and concludes by favoring "secret balloting" and the remaining suggestions posed by Gardner. On Oct 2, 1951, Martin accepts "membership on the 1951 Committee" for the Collier Trophy and will attend an upcoming meeting. Both letters are boldly signed. Lightly toned; two diagonal folds at top corner of first letter; else VG. MB: $150
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 | 377. RUSSELL MAUGHAN (1893-1958). Member of US Army Air Service; pursuit pilot in France during WW I; Winner of 1922 Pulitzer Flying Cup at Detroit at 206 MPH in Curtiss R-6; first pilot to fly dawn-to-dusk, coast-to-coast (1924). Air Mail cover postmarked at Manila Feb 27, 1931. Boldly signed "R L Maughan / Capt AS / Nichols Field / Manila P.I." Light soiling; red "Postage Due" stamps crossed over; else VG. MB: $50
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 | THE "PING-PONG FLIGHT"378. [HENRY T. MERRILL] Chief pilot of Eastern Airlines chosen to captain the first round trip flight between New York and London. Stowed aboard were some 41,000 Ping-Pong balls in the hollow recesses of wings and fuselage, so if forced to ditch, the airplane would certainly float! With war looming in Europe, the plane was christened the Vultee Lady Peace. Partly printed DS by William C. Zint as Official Timer and two observers, 1p, 81/2"x14", NY, Sep 21, 1936. National Aeronautic Assn certification that at 2:18 PM, EDST, on Sep 21, "Dick Merrill," pilot aboard the Vultee N.R. 13770 with Wright Model R1820 engine, finished his flight at Floyd Bennett Air Port. Boldly signed and completed. Notarized in bottom margin at Kings County, NY. Light general toning; occasional edge nicks with minor paper loss; else VG. MB: $100
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 | 379. JOHN M. MILLER (b. 1905). Test pilot who pioneered Autogyro flight flying the first transcontinental flight in 1931; inaugurated mail service from the roof of the Philadelphia Post office to the Airport in 1939. "First Flight" Air Mail cover commemorating this first rotary-wing aircraft flight, experimental route 2001 to Camden Airport, NJ. Postmarked at Philadelphia Jul 6, 1939. Boldly signed. General toning; else Fine. MB: $50
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 | 380. ERIK H. NELSON Army flying ace; piloted record-setting Douglas World Cruiser named New Orleans in Army round-the-world flight in 1924 from Seattle in 175 days. With the Chicago, they were the first to circumnavigate the Earth. Air Mail cover postmarked at Seattle Jan 9, 1931. Boldly signed. Fine example. MB: $75
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 | 381. RUTH NICHOLS (d. 1960). Record setting aviatrix who attempted to fly the Atlantic Ocean solo in 1931. When the medical profession and banking left her cold, this New York debutante flew nonstop from NY to FL in 1928. She was a charter member of the 99's, a club organized in 1929, open to any woman with pilot's license. Nichols held the women's world speed, distance and altitude records, simultaneously. She later became the first woman director of a major aircraft corporation, the Fairchild Airplane Manufacturing Corporation. Two TLsS, 1p each, 81/2"x11" and 53/4"x71/2", New York, 1938 and 1956. Both on her personal imprinted letterhead addressed to the National Aeronautical Assn in Washington, DC, seeking information with regard to early aviation pioneers with regard to articles for publication. Nichols lists on a separate sheet 12 female pilots, "holders of N.A.A. Licenses," asking their addresses or if they are deceased. In particular she inquires as to the issue date of an NAA license to Phoebe Omlie, wondering if she or herself is the "earliest N.A.A. licensed woman flyer actively piloting today..." Accompanied by response with requested information. Present also is her letter of Sep 12, 1956, again making inquiry regarding FAI licenses for early women pilots, mentioning Harriet Quimby, Charlotte Bronte, Julia Clarke and Blanch Scott. With unsigned copy of response. Light general toning; some penciled annotations; else VG/Fine. MB: $200
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 | 382. EARLE OVINGTON Aviation pioneer, the first to fly US Air Mail in his Bleriot monoplane, the Dragonfly. On Sep 23, 1911, he carried the mailbag on his knees, flying about five miles to Mineola, Long Island, where he tossed the bag overboard, to be picked up and carried to the post office. Ovington learned his skills at Bleriot's Aviation School in Pau, France. Air Mail Cover commemorating 20th anniversary of Air Mail Service and his 1911 flight postmarked at Pittsburgh Sep 23, 1931. Boldly signed. Fine. MB: $100
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 | 383. DAVID RITTENHOUSE US naval flying ace and winner of 1923 Schneider Trophy on the Isle of Wight off coast of England flying a Curtiss CR-3; leader in military combat tactics. Signed beige card, 51/4"x21/2". Boldly penned, adding "Lt U S Navy." Small mounting abrasions at bottom corner tips; else VG/Fine. Accompanied by Air Mail cover postmarked at San Diego Jan 5, 1931, in very good condition. MB: $75
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 | 384. [WILEY POST] (1899-1935). American aviator who set two around the world flight records in his monoplane, the Winnie Mae, and proving the value of automatic pilot; killed with humorist Will Rogers when his airplane crashed in 1935 near Point Barrow, Alaska. ALS "Mrs. Wiley Post," 21/2pp, 61/4"x81/4", Oklahoma City, Nov 16, 1936. To William Enyart at the National Aeronautic Assn in Washington, DC. Regarding the presentation of a medal memorializing her husband, Mrs. Post writes of her inability to be in Chicago before the summer vacation because of her required attendance at school. "...Please believe I appreciate very much what the N.A.A. is doing toward a memorial and that I am looking forward to receiving the F.A.I. medal with a great deal of pleasure..." Boldly penned. Light general toning; else Fine. MB: $80
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 | 385. [SANTOS-DUMONT MEDAL] Struck to commemorate the Brazilian pioneer aeronaut's feat as the first to fly a gasoline-powered airship in 1898. Offered is a replica of the gold medal presented to Alberto Santos-Dumont (1873-1932) struck in silver for the National Aero Clubs that was sent to Hiram Bingham for the National Aeronautic Association by SIDNEY VEIT of the Aero Club De France in Paris. Weighing approx 5 oz, the 23/4"x2" medal features quarter-length profile in relief on obverse and relief replica of his plane on reverse. Contained in original presentation case. Very nice. Accompanied by Veit's ALS in English, 2pp, 81/4"x103/4", Paris, Jun 13, 1930. On official letterhead, Veit writes to inform Bingham about the FAI Conference in Paris, in part, "...Mr. Rinz Ferry of the Royal Aero Club of Spain who presided at the present session remains president pro tem..." He presents the medal to Bingham, and wonders "whether you have not created a medal in America commemorating the Wright's first flight..." Veit also advises that "Mr. Marcel Doret, France's speediest and finest acrobatic ace, would gladly go to the Chicago meet August 23 if his expenses" were paid. He also encloses "some Italian propaganda stamps [present] for this meet in August - an idea for Chicago." Also present is an unsigned file copy of Bingham's response. Interestingly, he notes that he was "sorry to learn that Admiral Byrd was not awarded the gold medal of the F.A.I..." Wonderful early aviation collection. MB: $150
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 | 386. ELINOR SMITH (b. 1911). Record setting aviation pioneer becoming the youngest woman to fly solo at age 15, breaking several endurance records. At 17, she flew under four East River bridges in New York City. In 1930 Smith was voted the best female pilot in the United States. Air Mail cover postmarked at New York Jan 20, 1931. Boldly signed. General light toning; else Fine. MB: $75
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 | 387. SIR THOMAS SOPWITH (1888-1989). British pioneer aviator and engineer winning the Baron de Forest prize for his flight across the English Channel in 1910. He founded the Sopwith Aviation Company in 1912 where he designed and built several planes used during WW I, including the Sopwith Pup, the much esteemed Sopwith Camel fighter plane and the Sopwith Snipe. Commemorative Air Mail cover celebrating the Wright Brothers and the Dayton Air Fair postmarked at Dayton on Jul 19, 1980. Boldly signed, adding "1980." Mint condition. MB: $60
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 | 388. MARJORIE STINSON (1896-1975). With her sister, Katherine and her mother, she formed the Stinson Aviation Co., in 1913 that became a flight school in 1915. At the time, Marjorie was the youngest woman pilot ever. At Stinson Field she instructed Canadian pilots joining the British forces in World War I. Later pilots from nearby Brooks and Kelly Field were also trained there. Charles Lindbergh had used Stinson to practice flying while he was a 1924 Brooks Field Flying Cadet. TLS, 1p, 81/4"x41/2", Washington, DC, Aug 17, 1960. To Harry R. Guggenheimer at National Aeronautical Assn. In part, "I want a tiny bit of information on Mr. Orville Wright's trial flights for his ACA pilot's certificate. Enclosed are two blanks with questions and boxes for 'X' answers...If you cannot divulge this information, just return the blanks to me..." Boldly signed. Top and bottom margins trimmed; paper clip stains at top left margin; else VG. Accompanied by copy of Guggenheimer's memo to Stinson, 6"x41/4", regarding Wright's Pilot Certificate #4, though boxes are left blank. Above memo are statistics regarding her famous brother Edward Stinson's license issued in San Antonio using a Wright Model B in 1915. MB: $100
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 | 389. [SUSTAINED FLIGHT] Barnstormer Hunter Moody with Wilbur Parrish, alternating the controls, broke the world endurance flight record for light planes at Springfield, IL in Jun 1939. Air Mail cover postmarked at Decatur Jul 10, 1939. "Endurance Flight Ship NX22297 / 159 hrs. 45 Mn." penned at top left corner. Boldly signed by the two pilots. Moody would go on to break his own record later in the year. Light wear; general toning; else VG. MB: $50
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 | 390. ROGER Q. WILLIAMS Record-setting aviation pioneer. With copilot Lewis Yancey, he flew from New York to Rome in 1929. In 1930 he flew from New York to Bermuda and returned. Boldly signed Air Mail cover, adding dates for the two flights. Fine. MB: $50
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 | THADEN WINS FIRST WOMEN'S AIR DERBY IN 1929391. LOUISE M. THADEN (1905-1979). The first woman to win major flying events and awards as well as setting world performance records, she defeated both Amelia Earhart and Pancho Barnes to win the first Women's Air Derby in August 1929. TLS, 1p, 4to, San Francisco, Jan 24, 1929. Excellent aviation content. To the Contest Committee, NAA, on D. C Warren Company letterhead regarding the upcoming air race. In part, "...I would like to advise that my plans for the Air Races at Cleveland this year will very likely be a Hispano motored Travel Air, and with your kind permission I would like to suggest that there be an event for women exclusively in the 800 cu. in. class, also a race for the Hispano motor (720 cu. in.). I would also like to enter in a race from the Pacific Coast to Cleveland, if there could be one scheduled for women pilots. It might be possible to have such a contest right along with the regular derby for men, starting at the same time, and using the same controls, but with different prizes..." Boldly signed. Fine example. With copilot Blanche Noyes, Thaden went on to with the 1936 Bendix Cup race, the first year women were eligible to compete. As a result, she received aviation's highest honor, the Harmon Trophy, in 1936. MB: $100
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 | "THINGS AERONAUTICAL ARE DECIDEDLY ON THE UPWARD TREND"392. LOUISE M. THADEN ALS, 4pp, 6"x91/2", Little Rock, Dec 21, 1935. Good content. On Albert Pike Hotel letterhead to William Enyart, Secretary Contest Board. In bold lavender pencil responding unfavorabley to an editorial in the Dec "Aero Digest." In small part, "...I had read it - and was rather hot under the collar. In fact I counted 'ten' before sitting down to write Cy. In the meantime your letter reached me. I think it was swell - and the data and your letter sent to Cy should certainly take care of the situation. Your letter was the personification of tact plus psychology, and if that doesn't do the job, nothing will. Personally - and just between you and me, I think Cy has become slightly warped since his unfortunate accident in the Lake..." Thaden criticizes editorial practices, "...whether there is any foundation or not any excuse for a startling revelation and a new angle still fills up space and makes very juicy reading. That's my opinion....He is really a very nice get if you can get under the armour of cynicism he has grown to hide a very lenient heart...In my meandering about the country I believe things aeronautical are decidedly on the upward trend. Also the N.A.A. is gradually getting a better name for itself - sort of overcoming the Bingham era - but not without a lot of selling. I've practically talked myself hoarse. I haven't been much as a Sec'y., but as an Ambassador-at-Large! Really put forth effort..." Signed in full. Light general toning; else Fine. Accompanied by file copy of Enyart's unsigned response with moderate paper loss at margins away from text. MB: $100
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 | 393. JOHN HENRY TOWERS (1885-1955). Rear Admiral, USN; chief of the bureau of Aeronautics. Towers was one of the participants in the famous 1919 Naval transatlantic flight that predated Lindbergh by eight years. Forced to land his plane in rough seas, then Commander Towers taxied his craft 205 miles to the Azores. TLS, 1p, 8"x101/2", Washington, DC, Jul 24, 1940. On Navy Department Bureau of Aeronautics letterhead to Col. G. deFreest Larner at the National Aeronautic Assn. Asked by the Collier Trophy Committee to "submit his nomination of any outstanding accomplishment in the aviation field during 1939," Towers favors "the establishment of the regular transatlantic air mail and passenger service by Pan-American Airways..." Boldly signed. The name "Charlie" is penned at top margin; else Fine. MB: $100
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 | 394. [VINTAGE AIRCRAFT RECORDS] Collection of three DsS, 1p each, 81/2"x11", 1936-40, with supporting correspondence. Documents notify the National Aeronautic Association in Washington with confirmation of 312 barrel rolls by Louise Tinsley Miller of Alliance, NE, in a "Travel Air, Kinner Powered ship"; attesting 68 complete spins by Louis E. Salvador of Bingham, MA, "at an altitude of 3,500 feet"; and certifying also his accomplishing "103 complete turns, for a new Tailspin Record, bettering my own record of 68 turns..." All in excellent condition. MB: $150
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 | 395. CHARLES WILLARD (1883-1977). Harvard graduate and racecar driver, one of the first students taught to fly by Glenn Curtiss, piloting a Curtiss Golden Flyer in 1909. The next year at the Los Angeles Air Meet he won the spot-landing contest and picked up $250 in prize money. Willard became the chief engineer for Glenn Martin and designed flying boats with Curtiss. Signed illustrated booklet entitled "Charles Willard The Exhibition Years," 14pp, 81/2"x11", ca. 1974. Boldly signed on cover page. Fine. Fascinating early aviation lore. MB: $100
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 | 396. HULDA YEN Chinese aviatrix who toured in America to raise funds for her people before World War II. Signed Air Mail cover postmarked at Montgomery, AL, May 29, 1939. Boldly penned in English and Chinese. General toning; else Fine. Accompanied by nice newspaper photograph plus TLS, 1p, 81/2"x11", Montgomery, May 24, 1939. On St. Margaret's Hospital letterhead to collector enclosing autographed cover and writes regarding her "mercy tour for raising money for my 30,000,000 fellow countrymen and women..." Miss Yen was injured when her plane crashed en route to Birmingham. Fine. MB: $50
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Astronauts |
 | ORIGINAL MERCURY ASTRONAUTS397. [MERCURY 7] During the five years of Project Mercury, six manned flights and eight automated flights were completed, proving that human space flight was possible. These pioneer missions paved the way for the Gemini and Apollo programs as well as future human space flight. An impressive assemblage of all seven original Mercury astronauts. Printed SP, color, 8"x10" full-length standing portrait of these young astronauts in space suits. Signed by two of the seven including GORDON COOPER (b. 1927); and DEKE SLAYTON (1924-1993). Matted beside this fine image are individual signatures of ALAN SHEPARD (1923-1998) and JOHN GLENN (b. 1921). Beneath are two signed FDCs, one with illustrated cachet honoring Lieut. Col. John Glenn postmarked at Glen Head, NY, Feb 20, 1962, and signed by VIRGIL I. [Gus] GRISSOM (1926-1967); and the other with Project Mercury stamp postmarked at Cape Canaveral on Feb 20, 1962, signed by SCOTT CARPENTER (b. 1925); and WALLY SCHIRRA (b. 1923). All signatures are boldly penned. Contained under glass within simple silver frame. Overall 171/4"x181/4". Fine attractive example. MB: $500
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 | 398. [APOLLO XI] In 1969 this mission performed the first manned lunar landing enabling the first men to walk on the moon. Printed NASA SP, color, 10"x8" portrait of crewmembers Neil Armstrong; pilot MICHAEL COLLINS (b. 1930); and BUZZ ALDRIN (b. 1930), who followed Armstrong to the lunar surface. Signed by Collins and Aldrin across their images. Fine. Contained within gold National Aviation Club & National Aeronautic Association program booklet for ceremonies at the Statler Hilton in Washington, DC, for presentation of the Collier Trophy for 1969 to the Apollo XI crew. Includes unsigned print of Armstrong and lunar module on moon's surface. Folder evidences soiling and light wear. An historic presentation. MB: $80
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 | 399. [APOLLO-SOYUZ MISSION] First American-Russian mission in 1975 which set the stage for the Shuttle-Mir program. Printed NASA SP, color, 10"x8" portrait of the American prime crewmembers DONALD SLAYTON (1924-1993), one of the original Mercury astronauts; VANCE BRAND (b. 1931); and TOM STAFFORD, (b. 1930) all in space suits. Each has boldly signed across his image. Fine. MB: $80
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 | 400. [APOLLO-SOYUZ MISSION] SP, color, 91/2"x7" illustration of the two space craft as they prepare to dock. Matted to overall 14"x11". Boldly signed on mat beneath image by American prime crewmembers DONALD SLAYTON; VANCE BRAND; and TOM STAFFORD, (b. 1930). Matting evidences occasional foxing and wear at edges; else VG. MB: $80
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 | 401. ALAN BEAN (b.1932). American astronaut and artist; Apollo XII and Skylab III veteran; fourth man to walk on the moon. Signed book, Keeping up with the Astronauts by Don Myrus, 93pp, 83/4"x111/4", Grosset & Dunlap, New York, 1964. Subtitled "The Story of Man's Greatest Adventures in Outer Space." Revised Edition. Boldly signed on half-title page, adding "Apollo 12" beneath. Cover evidences edge wear at corner tips and spine; else VG/Fine. MB: $80
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 | 402. ALAN BEAN Signed action figure of Apollo astronaut, 5" in length. This molded vinyl replica in space suit "designed from NASA plans" is signed in full along the length of the back pack and with last name only on rear of backpack, adding "Apollo 12" and again on front of figure in chest area. Contained in original packaging together with circular Apollo XII patch. Very nice. MB: $80
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 | 403. [ASTRONAUT SIGNATURE COLLECTION] Assortment of seven American astronauts. Included are five 3"x5" unlined cards signed by DICK GORDON; WALLY SCHIRRA; WALT CUNNINGHAM; EDGAR MITCHELL; and MICHAEL ANDERSON. Plus bookplates individually signed by DON LIND and V[ance] BRAND. All boldly penned in felt tip or ballpoint. Fine examples. MB: $100
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 | 404. M. SCOTT CARPENTER (b. 1925). Astronaut; Naval lieutenant colonel and original member of Mercury space program who made two flights in 1962 and 1963; later an aquanaut in Navy Sealab II project. His book, The Steel Albatross, 371pp, 61/4"x91/2", Pocket Books, NY, 1991. A novel. Boldly signed bookplate laid to half-title page. Fine example. MB: $80
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 | 405. [CHALLENGER MEMORIAL] Tribute to the crewmembers who died in the explosion during launch of the space shuttle STS-51-L on Jan 28, 1986. Boldly penned signatures of four of the seven astronauts who died include pilot MICHAEL J. SMITH; commander DICK SCOBEE; mission specialists ELLISON S. ONIZUKA; and RONALD E. MCNAIR. Attractively matted beneath three insignia patches including a memorial tribute. Overall 16"x20". Accompanied by colorful Collector's Edition of magazine entitled "A Tribute to America's Space Heroes" honoring the seven astronauts. Very nice. MB: $100
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 | 406. [COLUMBIA/STS 107 TRIBUTE] Three members who died in the disastrous reentry of the space shuttle in the skies over Texas on Feb 1, 2003. Signatures of Pilot WILLIE MCCOOL, adding "STS-107"; and Commander RICK HUSBAND, each 4"x13/4". Attractively matted beneath circular NASA insignia signed by Mission Specialist MIKE ANDERSON together with crew insignia and memorial patches. Overall 16"x12". Fine example. MB: $80
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 | 407. JUDITH RESNICK (1949-1986). Mission specialist killed in the Challenger disaster with six other astronauts. Signed commemorative postal cover honoring her as the "First Woman Astronaut Candidate to Participate in T-38 Shuttle Simulation Flight" above White Sands illustration. Postmarked Jul 11, 1978 at White Sands Missile Range, NM. Boldly signed. Mounted. Fine. MB: $100
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 | 408. SALLY K. RIDE (b. 1951). US astronaut, America's first woman in space aboard the shuttle Challenger (1983). Printed NASA SP, color, 8"x10" quarter-length portrait in NASA flight jacket. Boldly signed beside her image. Fine. MB: $40
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 | 409. WALLY SCHIRRA (b. 1923). Astronaut; only man to participate in all three Mercury, Gemini and Apollo programs. Signed book, Man's Conquest of Space by William R. Shelton, 199pp, 7"x101/4", National Geographic Society, Washington, DC, 1974. Illustrated. Third Edition. Boldly signed on first flyleaf opposite full-page image of lunar footprint. Dust cover evidences light soiling on verso; minor edge tears; else VG/Fine. MB: $80
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 | 410. WALLY SCHIRRA Signed book, Space Travel, 256pp, 81/2"x11", World Book, Inc., Chicago, 1990. Illustrated compendium of space exploration. Boldly signed on half-title page. Fine example. MB: $80
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 | 411. [SKYLAB 4 ASTRONAUTS] Nice collection of three printed NASA SPs, color, 8"x10" seated portraits of pilot ED GIBSON (b. 1936), adding "Skylab III" and sentiment; and commander JERRY CARR (b. 1932), both in space suits; plus a 10"x8" still of the space station as seen from Skylab 4 signed by BILL POGUE (b. 1930), inscribed, adding sentiment. Fine. MB: $150
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 | FIRST SIX COSMONAUTS412. [RUSSIAN COSMONAUTS] First six cosmonauts in space aboard Vostok space capsules. SP, color, image 111/4"x5", overall 111/4"x81/2" three-quarter length portraits of the six in uniform. Each has boldly signed in broad border beneath image. Included are the first man in space YURI GAGARIN (1934-1968) who was launched Apr 12, 1961; GHERMAN TITOV (b. 1935); VALENTINA TERESHKOVA (1937), the first woman in space; and her husband ANDRIYAN NIKOLAYEV (b. 1929); PAVEL POPOVICH (b. 1930); and VALERY BYKOVSKY (b. 1934). Minor creasing; 1/2" tear at top edge with no paper loss; else VG/Fine. Mounted to cream-tone mat. Overall 14"x11". MB: $1800
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