In the United States, the Requa Gibson Company of New York City, led by Hugh C. Gibson, became the first American propeller manufacturer in 1909. The company began by crafting copies of Chauviére designs, but it then pioneered distinctively American designs by E.W. Bonson. The success of this pioneer propeller manufacturer was short-lived, as the company went bankrupt in 1911.

This artifact is from the collection of Mary E. "Mother" Tusch who, as a result of her motherly association with pilots who trained near her home at the U.S. School of Military Aeronautics at the campus of the University of California at Berkeley during World War I, became an avid supporter of aviation and aviators for much of the 20th century.

Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.

Object Details
Country of Origin United States of America Type PROPULSION-Propellers & Impellers Designer E. W. Bonson Co.
Manufacturer Requa Gibson Company
Physical Description Type: Two-Blade, Fixed-Pitch, Wood Diameter: 205.7 cm (81 in.) Chord: 21.6 cm (8.5 in.) Engine Application: Unknown Dimensions Rotor/Propeller: 205.7 x 21.6 x 13.3 x 10.8 x 1 x 3.5cm (81 x 8 1/2 x 5 1/4 x 4 1/4 x 3/8 x 1 3/8 in.)
3-D: 205.7 x 20.6 x 10.8cm (81 x 8 1/8 x 4 1/4 in.)
Bolt Holes: 5
Materials Wood
Copper Alloy
Varnish
Inventory Number A19711221000 Credit Line Donated by Mrs. Mary E. "Mother" Tusch Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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