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Auction: 364 - Autographs & Documents e-Auction featuring the Mike Roth Aviation Collection Part I
Lot: 93

Pitcairn, Harold Frederick (1897-1960). American aviation inventor and pioneer, awarded the 1930 Collier Trophy for his key role in the development of the autogyro, founded the Autogiro Company of America, Pitcairn Aviation (later Eastern Airlines) and the Pitcairn Aircraft Company, patented a number of innovations related to rotary wing aircraft; enshrined in the National Aviation Hall of Fame in 1995. Letter Signed "Harold F Pitcairn". One page, on his letterhead, Philadelphia, Nov. 27, 1933. Writing to Senator Hiram Bingham, president of the NAA, Pitcairn notes neither he nor (test pilot) Jim Ray will be able to attend the annual F.A.I. Conference in Cairo. "I do not see how we could possibly justify the time and expense for such an appointment; nevertheless, I appreciate your kindness in thinking of us." Small right top corner fold, otherwise Fine; also early Photos (3). The Pitcairn "Fleetwing" PA-1, 8 3/8 x 7 7/8"; Pitcairn in the cockpit of the Fleetwing, 8 1/3 x 7 1/3. Both sepia-tinged; and a B&W 8 x 10" portrait by photographer Elias Goldensky, Philadelphia, of Pitcairn in a business suit. All dated 1926 on backs. [4]

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