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. The company went bankrupt in June 1911.
This 1911 artifact was owned and used by William C. Miller, the donor's father and member of the Early Birds of Aviation, an organization of pioneers who flew solo before December 17, 1916. The son recalls that the aircraft was probably a pre-WWI Curtiss-type that was built by his father. With other flyers from his community, William Miller made numerous exhibition flights in the Erie County area of Pennsylvania. In 1914, Miller engaged in flights at Chicago's Grant Park.
Display Status
This object is on display in Early Flight at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.
Object Details
Date
1911
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Propellers & Impellers
Manufacturer
Requa Gibson Company
Physical Description
Type: Two-Blade, Fixed-Pitch, Wood
Diameter: 213 cm (84 in.)
Chord: 26.7 cm (10.5 in.)
Engine Application: Unknown
Dimensions
Rotor/Propeller: 213.4 x 26.7 x 14 x 16.2 x 3.2cm (84 x 10 1/2 x 5 1/2 x 6 3/8 x 1 1/4 in.)
Materials
Wood
Varnish
Copper Alloy
Inventory Number
A19670153000
Credit Line
Gift of Warren C. Miller
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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