-Co - Cz-
COCKING, Robert BRITAIN (1776-1837) K (GB)
See APPENDIX-A/B/C. Sport Aeronaut.
Son of an Irish Clergyman.
b: 1776, Ireland.
d: 24 July 1837, London.
p: Watercolor painter, inventor.
f: First B-Flight (w/SADLER) from Bath; Second flight (w/M.MASON) from Vauxhall 27 Sep.1836;
l: Witnessed parachute descent (by GARNERIN) in 1802.
h: Graveyard marker in Lee England churchyard. ***Epic flight 24 July 1837 (w/GREEN E.SPENCER, & MASON) from London. Descent was by a self-made parachute that failed; Cocking died on impact.
r: The Big Umbrella.
CODY, Sam Franklin BRITAIN 1860-1913) K (GB)
Became a Naturalized British Citizen in 1909; Not related to William "Buffalo Bill" Cody.
b: 14 May 1860 Ft.Worth, TX;
d: 7 Aug.1913 Aldershot, England.
p: Cowboy, Miner, Inventor, Military aviator; Worked for British War Office at Farnborough, 1903.
f: Flew in manned kites July 1903; learned free ballooning 1904; airships 1907, airplanes 1908.
l: 1883-84, Gold prospector in the Klondike; Built & flew airship "Nulli Secundus" August 1907; Invented the adjustable pitch propeller; Expert on kites and airframes.
h: Royal Aeronautical Society Silver Medal-1909; Won many honors & monetary prizes for aviation achievements; First civilian to be buried in Aldershot Military Cemetery. ***Epic flight 7 Aug.1913 (w/W.H.B.Evans) from Aldershot airfield in an airplane in his own design. Both pilots were killed in the crash.
COE, Charles Carlo USA (1830?1890) (GB)
See APPENDIX-S. Sport Aeronaut, about 1860.
Resident of Utica, NY; Stage name "Carlos."
l: Reportedly built a large gas balloon, 290' high by 118' in diameter, in Rome, NY.
r: Scientific American 1860, v.3, p273; Second balloon built Sep.1860 was reported as 290'high by 118' in diameter (1,736,000 cubic feet). ***Epic flight 29 Sep.1859 (w/Cottman) from Rome, NY. Gas control valve stuck on climb; balloon burst at 10,000'. Both aeronauts survived with minor injuries as the envelope inverted in the net, and landed in high trees. ***Epic flight 4 Jul.1871 (w/1-pax) from Oswego, NY. International flight ended at Irish Creek ONT, Canada.
r: NT-8 Jul.1871.
COECKELBERGH, Leon H. BELGIUM (1890?1950) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AH/AI/AV/CH. Sport balloonist.
Name sometimes spelled Coeckelberg; Sicon of a wealthy family.
p: Businessman, Investor, Administrator; Owner of Public Utilities.
f: Early flight history unknown; B-License by 1923.
p: Wealthy Industrialist.
l: Aide to E.DEMUYTER in 1923, 24, 25, & 30 G-Bennett B-Races.
r: FAI-RAC-archives; BuA p31.
COEY, Charles Andrew USA 1870?1929) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AF/AI. Sport balloonist.
Sicon of a wealthy family.
b: Redfield, NY.
d: 1929.
p: Businessman, Investor, Administrator; Owner of Public Utilities.
f: First B-Flight 1 June 1908 (see below).
l: Sport balloonist, bicycle racer, and auto racer, Airship pilot. ***Epic flight 1 Jun.1908 (w/BUMBAUGH & Leichliter) from Quincy, IL in "Chicago." Record-attempt flight encountered bad weather. Balloon was sucked into a thunderstorm, and ascended to 7000'. When their clothes froze on them, they valved gas too quickly in their concern, and crashed into the trees near Clear Lake (ND) after covering 800 miles in 11-hours.
r: NT8-Jun.1908/3/4; Chicago Sunday Record-Herald, 7 Jan.1908.
COLDING, Johann Peter DENMARK (1760?1825) (GB)
See APPENDIX-A/C. Sport balloonist.
Name spelled Kolding in Denmark.
p: Postal administrator.
f: Only recorded free flight 5 May 1811.
l: Credited with initiating the first official government sponsored balloon mail. ***Epic event 8 May 1808, he made a suggestion to King Frederick to use balloons to carry mail across the Stor-Belt Harbor. He was subsequently commissioned to commence experiments from the Island of Fyh, to Copenhagen. Small unmanned hydrogen balloons, carrying one letter each, were dispatched at regular intervals to cross the harbor blocked by war ships. The experiment was soon discontinued as unreliable but four letters remain in the National Archives.
h: Received Knighthood for his endeavors.
COLE, Edward USA (1860?1888) K (SM)
See APPENDIX-B/L/S. Professional balloonist.
Epic flight 28 Aug.1888 from Detroit. Lost his grip on the trapeze during ascent and fell from about 60'. He died of impact injuries.
r: NT-28 Aug/1888/1/7.
COLE, Edward D USA (1870?1896) K (SM)
See APPENDIX-B/L/S; Professional balloonist.
a: Resident of Ann Arbor, MI; Partner w/Miss.CARMO (Troutwill). ***Epic flight 30 Aug. 1896 from Presque Isle, ME. Ascent & descent were normal, except both landed in the water. Miss Carmo stayed with her life preserver; Cole lost his and drowned.
r: PYA-Scrapbook.
COLE, Edwin S. USA #- 39 (1860?1930) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AF/AI/AN/AR. Sport & Military balloonist.
First name sometimes as Ernest.
b: St.Louis, MO.
l: Sport balloonist 1907-20 era; Made 21 ascents by 1914; Participated in many balloon events.
r: City of Flight.
s: Served as B-Instructor for the U.S. Army at Ft.Omaha.
m: St.Louis Aero Club; Missouri Aeronautical Society, 1917. ***Epic flight 11 Oct.1919 (w/L.Ferrenback) from St.Louis, MO. Won international standing with an 860 mile flight. Unfortunately, he was disqualified by officials, and listed as a Non-Competitor.
r: St.Louis Post Dispatch.
COLE, Timothy Scott USA 1945- (HB/GB)
See APPENDIX-AC/BF. Sport balloonist.
b: 5 Nov.1945 Sarasota, FL.
p: Multi-line insurance agency owner/operator.
e: Savanah (GA) E.G.T., Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic.
s: U.S.Army, Aviation Mechanic 1967-70.
f: First B-Flight July 1977 with Lynn Casseday; First B-Solo June 1976 from Fredrick, CO; FAA-Commercial Hot-air and Gas balloons Dec.1978; BFA-Master Instructor; Aviator since 1968; FAA-Airframe & Powerplant license with Inspection Authorization More than 800 B-Hours (18 Gas flights) by 1992.
l: Designer and builder of hot-air & gas balloons; 1980, Participated in the "Kitty Hawk" transcontinental project; 1981, Participated in the "Jules Verne" Trans-World project; 1983, Placed 3rd as Co-Pilot in National Gas Balloon Championships; 1987, Placed 3rd as Co-Pilot in Nat. Gas Balloon Championships; 1990, Designed & built own Ammonia-Gas Balloon; 1991, Participated in First NH3 Gas Balloon Race; Isn’t Steward of World Gas Balloon Championships.
m: NAA; BFA, Gas Balloon Committee; Co-Founder (w/D.BROWN) of the "Aero Research Consortorium"; Colorado B-Club.
h: Decorated for Valor as Helicopter crew chief in Vietnam; Anderson-Ida Memorial Trophy; Montgolfier Diploma 1994; Colorado Hall of Fame 1995. ***Epic flight 26 Sep.1991 in an Ammonia balloon. Established one World, and 13 National duration records, staying aloft 8 hours 47 minutes. ***Epic flight 1994 from Canada to Germany in an AM-Class balloon.
r: GBD-Newsletter Winter-1991; Bio-data form 1992; BL-Nov.95p9.
COLEGROVE, H.W. USA (1851-1879) K (GB)
See APPENDIX-B/L/S. Professional balloonist.
b: 1851 Winchester County, IN.
p: Worked for Woodward's Garden in San Francisco.
f: Student of J.A.ALLEN; Made 7 (28?) ascents in his career. ***Epic flight 5 Oct.1879 (w/Chs.H.Williams) from San Francisco (CA) in "Gen. Grant." Launched in a strong wind, balloon grazed a telegraph line that severed the suspension lines. Both aeronauts fell to their death near the city center. NOTE: Williams was the manager of Woodwards Garden.
r: NT-14 Oct.1879/2/7; S.F.Chronicle & Alta-Calif.6 Oct.1879/3/5.
COLLARD, George USA (1840?1900) (GB)
See APPENDIX-S. Professional balloonist. Resident of Boston.
***Epic flight 4 July 1868 from New Bedford, MA. On take-off, anchor caught clothes of two small boys and carried them aloft. Collard cut the rope at about 50 feet, and the boys fell into a tree and were seriously injured.
r: Museum of Wonders, H.Nortrop-1892.
COLLINS, Porter Durant USA #-802 (1891-1958) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AR. Military aeronaut.
b: 22 Oct.1891 Lakeport, NH;
d: 18 Mar.1958 Bradenton, FL.
e: Brown University, AB-1913; Alpha Tau Omega.
s: Officer in the U.S.Navy 1918-21, Ret.Ens.
p: Advertising Manager, Kelly-Springfield Tire Co.
f: Balloon & Airship training at Akron & NAS Pensacola; FAI-ACA B-License #802 issued 16 Apr.1919; Naval Aviator #1995.
r: Contact-Profiles p498.
COLTING, Hakan SWEDEN 1940? - (HB)
See APPENDIX-BO. Professional Aeronaut. (Bio-Data unavailable).
b: Gothenburg. Name is Hokan in Swedish.
p: Professional Balloonist; Airship & B-Manufacturer; Owner/operator of Colt Balloons Ltd. in Oswestry, England; Owner /operator of 21st Century Airships Ltd. Newmarket Canada.
f: More than 600 B-Hours, in 14 Countries by 1981.
l: Participated in many National & In'tl B-Events; Participated in World HB-Championships 1977, 79, 81, & 85; Holder of Swedish Altitude record; was reported as an "Official UFO" in Thailand 1978; Pioneer in the development of Spherical airships.
a: 196 Leslie St; Newmarket, ONT L3y-2JW Canada.
COMASCHI, Antonio ITALY 1820?1860) (GB)
See APPENDIX-CR. Bio-Data unknown.
f: First B-Flight 1841 w/M.MUZZI from Turin; Received all flight training from M. MUZZI.
l: Made many flights from Naples and Rome; Flew in Constantinople 25 June, and 8 July 1844.
COMSTOCK, Bruce P. USA 1943- (HB/GB)
See APPENDIX-BB/BD/BF/BG/BH/BK/BO/BR/BV/BX. Aeronaut Extraordinaire.
Husband of balloonist Tucker; Father of balloonist Courtney.
b: 24 July 1943, Rockville Centre, NY.
e: Univ. of Colorado, BA-Econimics-1966; Univ. of Michigan, MA-program in Economics.
p: General Manager of Cameron Balloons, USA.
f: First HB-Flight 6 June 1970 (w/D. FLODEN); First HB-Solo 31 July 1970; FAA B-License 25 Sep.1970; First GB-Flight 17 Feb.1974 (w/K. REISERT); FAA Designated B-Examiner 1975-1983; More than 1100 B-Hours by 1982; including 7 GB flights.
l: 1972, winner of U.S. Nat. B-Championship; 1972, established FAA B-Repair Station; 1973, placed fourth in World HB-Championship; 1974, crossed Swiss Alps in Gas Balloon (from Murren); 1975, served as juror for World HB-Championship; 1975, developed techniques for safe night flight in HB; 1976, winner of U.S. Nat. B-Championship; 1976, served as juror for World Gas Balloon Championship; 1977, winner of U.S. Nat. B-Championship; 1977, placed second in World HB-Championship; 1979, winner of U.S. Nat. B-Championship; 1980, FAI-Duration record (w/D. SCHAFFER) AX-10=24:07:58; 1980, FAI-Distance record (w/J. van Alstine) AX-10=493 Sm; 1981, winner of World HB-Championship.
m: BFA 1970-Life, 1971-72 Editor of Ballooning Magazine; 1972-75 Member of the Board of Directors; 1973-75 President; 1973-75 CIA Delegate.
h: Montgolfier Diploma-1977; LTA-Society Achievement Award-1994, BFA-Shields/Trauger Award-1994.
r: Data Sheet Apr. 1982; Multiple BM & BL magazines.
COMSTOCK, Cyrus B. USA (1810?1880) (OB)
See APPENDIX-M. Military balloon observer.
s: Officer in the U.S. Army 1861-64 era. ***Epic ascent (w/J.ALLEN) 1861. Surprised the enemy at Fredericksburg, using information gained aloft.
COMSTOCK, Tucker (F) USA (1940? - (HB)
See APPENDIX-BE. Professional balloonist. (Bio-Data unknown)
Wife of famous balloonist "Bruce"; Mother of balloonist.
p: Production Mgr. Cameron Balloons-USA 1980-90; Manager of Balloon Ranch in Costa Rica 1992.
f: Sport balloonist; Commercial B-License.
l: Flew balloons in many foreign countries; Participated in many National & In'tl B-Events.
m: BFA; BBAC.
h: BFA Shields-Trauger Award-198?.
r: Personal interview.
CONDE, Flores (F) USA (1870?1930) (GB)
See APPENDIX-G/S; Professional balloonist, 1895-99 era.
***Epic flight 15 March 1898 from Mexico City. The conservative Mexican government was reluctant to let a representative of womanhood perform in such a daring sport in public, but ruled that a circus acrobat was not much to protect. She made several successful flights while performing on a trapeze.
r: Breve Historica dela Aviacion en Mexico p41.
CONION, Charles USA (1875?1930) (GB/SM)
See APPENDIX- (B)/S. Professional balloonist.
***Epic flight 5 Jul.1897 (w/Bertie Hill) from Oakland, CA. At the sound of a whistle, all of the crew let go except Bertie, who was sitting on a sandbag attached to a handling line. When the balloon leveled off at 1000', he realized the predicament. He enticed the child with promises of candy if he would hold on, but he let go, and fell to his death.
r: Oakland Tribune. ***Epic flight 1898 from Oakland, CA. Participant (w/Miss ANITA, her first flight on the West Coast) in a balloon race.
CONN, Richard C. USA (1947-1983) (HB)
See APPENDIX-B (+2) Sport balloonist
b: 22 May 1947 Longview, TX;
d: 11 Jul.1983 Azel, TX.
e: University of Texas at Arlington, BS-Mechanical Engineering.
p: Registered Professional Engineer.
f: First B-Flight 1976 w/M.Lewis (instructor); Comm.B-License, More than 350 B-Hours by 1983; PAAP Level-6.
l: Owner of Piccard AX-6 balloon N99US.
m: BFA; N.Texas B-Association (FM), News Editor at time of death. ***Epic flight 12 Jul.1983 (w/Connie Bersano & Norma Green) from Fort Worth, TX. Landing near Azel (TX), the pyrometer cable contacted a 220V service line to a residence. Conn and Connie were killed, but Mrs.Green survived with minor injuries.
r: FAA-Report; Ft.Worth Newspaper; Nancy Dobbs (wife) and B.MURTORFF archives.
CONN, Sidney USA (1942- (HB)
b: 27 Oct.1942 Medicine Hat, Alb.Canada.
e: Electronics.
p: Business manager, Entrepreneur; Owner/Operator of "The Balloon-Works" since 15 Feb.1982.
f: First B-flight Feb.1979 with Del Michaud; First B-Solo 15 Feb.1979 from Statesville, NC; Canadian Free Balloon license 19 Oct.1979. ***Epic flight 11 Apr.1980 (w/D. MEDDOCK). Expedition leader of FIRST B-Flight over the North Pole.
r: Personal interview; Bio-data-1984.
CONNELLY, Thomas Joseph USA #-665 (1896?1980) (GB)
See APPENDIC-AR/CN. Military balloonist.
b: 11 Mar.1896 Sacramento, CA; Res.Los Angeles 1969.
e: Univ.of California, BS-Civil Engineering, 1918 (Phi Kapa Tau).
s: Officer in the U.S.Navy 1918-21; Ret.Lt.JG.
p: Sales Engineer, Houghton Elevator Co.
f: Balloon & Airship training at Akron & NAS Pensacola; FAI-ACA B-License #665 issued 14 Aug.1918; Naval Aviator #1563.
a: 1877 Park Dr; L.A., CA. Contact-Profiles p406.
CONNOR, Agustus USA 1840?1860) K (GB)
See APPENDIX-B/S. Professional balloonist.
f: Student of J.WISE; Bought "Venus" balloon from WISE. ***Epic flight 17 May 1860 from Manhattan, NY. Launch from the City center encountered strong winds at treetop altitude. Balloon was dashed into the side of a building. The pilot fell out of the basket, and died later of his injuries.
r: N.Y. Illustrated News, 19 May 1860.
CONSIDINE, Bob USA 1910?1975) (HP)
p: Nationally known, syndicated newspaper writer (San Francisco). ***Epic flight May 1975 from Lake Tahoe, CA. Sustained minor impact injuries on landing. Died within 60 days of diabetes. Widow received damage settlement from the balloonist.
CONTADES-Gizeux, Arnold de FRANCE (1863?1920) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AT/U. Sport balloonist 1897-1907 era.
b: 1863 Paris.
f: First B-Flight 1897 from Spontini.
l: Sport cyclist (record speed 100Km. in 2hr 40 min.).
CONTE, Nicholas Jacques FRANCE (1775-1805) (HP)
See APPENDIX-J. Military balloonist.
b: 4 Aug.1755, Sees, France;
d: 6 Dec.1805, Paris.
p: Distinguished Artist, Inventor, and Chemist; Developer of first military balloons; Commander of French (Army) balloon school at Meudon.
l: Credited with the invention of the graphite pencil. ***Epic event 1785. As a schoolboy, he observed an unsuccessful balloon ascent and offered suggestions to the owner on improvement, who subsequently made a successful flight. The balloon owner was impressed, and provided means to complete the education of Conte. ***Epic event 1791, he met COUTELLE, and offered improvements to mobile inflation process of observation balloons. He was subsequently introduced to Gen. Lazare, who recognized his talent, and placed him in charge of all Military balloon inflation.
CONTOS, James Augustus USA (1917- (GB)
See APPENDIX-C/BE/BD/BI/BT. Sport balloonist. Father of balloonist.
b: 22 Aug.1917, Canton, OH.
e: Louisville/Canton Public Schools.
p: Aircraft mechanic.
f: Built a smoke balloon in 1929; Built & flew manned kites 1935; First gas B-Flight 28 Sep.1956 with Ren BROWN & Ralph Block; First hot-air B-Flight 15 Apr.1956; FAA B-License 30 Sep.1961; Airplane pilot, sport parachutist; Made three SM, 50 GB, & more than 100 HB flights by 1983.
l: 1936, Broke leg on Smoke Balloon jump; 1959, Flew a cluster balloon from Akron, OH airport; 1962, Co-Developer of the "Ghost Project"; 1968, Project manager of "Free Life" (see Appendix-I); 1976, Participated in Augsburg gas balloon race; 1980, Survived garage fire that destroyed his balloon (3 Oct).
m: Wingfoot L-T-A Society, Founding member 1952; BFA FM-1961. ***Epic inflation 18 Nov.1950 at Akron, OH of "Clarissa-I" (25,000CF). Claimed (disputed) first demonstration of a hot-air balloon using propane and synthetic (Taffeta) envelope material. ***Epic flight 15 Apr.1956 from Akron, OH in "Clarissa-II" (35,000CF). Claimed a US-National duration record of 26 minutes in a hot-air balloon. (Not substantiated by NAA files). ***Epic ascent 12 Sep.1959 near Akron, OH in "Clarissa-II." Balloon was a cluster of 25?helium filled, meteorological balloons. ***Epic flight 12 Nov.1976 (w/WOLCOTT & Ralph Garrett) from Paradise Cove, CA. Ascent for television movie broke the tether line and made a free-flight with stunt man on top of the balloon. Garrett climbed down the net into the basket and flight continued four hours before landing in the Pacific Ocean. Balloon & crew were rescued by ship. NOTE: Aerostation Magazine reported that it was forced down by the rotor wash of a helicopter, before being towed ashore.
COOK, Edith Maude (F) BRITAIN (1878-1910) K (SM)
See APPENDIX-B.
p: Professional balloonist.
Stage name "Viola Spencer."
b: 1878 Ipswich;
d: 1910 Coventry;
p: Balloonist for A.GAUDRON; Protégé of M.SEDGEWICK.
f: Made about 300 ascents in her 10-year career. ***Epic flight 9 Jul.1910 from Coventry. Ascent & descent were normal, except that she landed on a factory roof. A gust of wind caused her to slide off and she died of her impact injuries.
r: LT-18 Jul.1910/7/D; When the Chute Goes Up.
COOK, Rider E. BRITAIN (1870?1930) (GB)
See APPENDIX- (B). Professional balloonist.
***Epic flight 5 May 1906 from the Crystal Palace (London) in "Vimenne." Flight was uneventful, but a bystander lit a pipe during the deflation. Frederick Henson died, and 7 persons were hospitalized.
COOLEY, Richard Levi USA #-732 (1895?1960) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AR. Military balloonist.
b: 10 Aug.1895 Newtonville, MA; Res. of Newtonville 1969.
e: Dartmouth College, BS-1918.
s: Officer in the U.S.Navy 1918-22; Naval Aviator #1036.
f: Balloon & Airship training at Akron & NAS Pensacola; FAI-ACA B-License #732 issued 20 Nov.1918;
r: Contact-Profiles p286.
COOPER, James Frank USA #-816 (1885-1960) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AI/AR. Sport balloonist.
b: 27 Feb.1885, Parkersburg, WV.
d: 1960.
p: Balloon maker for Goodyear, Balloon & Airship pilot 1913-33.
l: 1927, Aide (to BOETTNER) in U.S. National B-Race. ***Epic flight 31 May 1928 (see WOLLAM). Survived a lightning strike.
COOPER, Lindsey USA (1890?1906) K (SM)
See APPENDIX-B/L. Professional balloonist.
d: 26 Jan.1906 Dallas, TX; Resident of Clarinda, OH.
p: Professional acrobat for "Clark & Storeburger Carnival."
f: Made only one flight in his life, his last. ***Epic flight 24 Jan. 1906 from Greenville, TX. Ascent was normal, but pilot lost his grip on the trapeze and fell from about 1700'. Investigation of his injuries disclosed only a broken wrist, but he died three days later of internal injuries.
r: NT-21 Jan.1906/1/6; Dallas Star 27 Jan. 1906.
COOPER, Terry, J. USA (1941- (GB/HB)
b: 2 Nov.1941 Bakersfield, CA; Sport balloonist.
e: Univ.of Texas; American University, BA-1965 in Mathematics.
p: President of Restaurant/Motel chain in S.W. USA.
f: First B-Flight Feb.1974 with Mike LEWIS; First B-Solo: May 1974 from Dallas, Texas; FAA B-License #466628300 issued 31 Jul.1974; More than 1100 B-Hours (2-GB flights) by 1986; Airplane and Glider pilot.
l: 1976, Participated in Mexican B-Rally; 1982, Balloon Champion of Texas; 1984, Balloon Champion of Texas; 1985, Flew in Madagascar (30 Apr.& 19 May); 1985, Winner of Hungarian B-Race (18 Oct).
m: BFA, ABAC, Fellow in Royal Geographic Society. ***Epic flight 19 May 1985 from Ambahimanga Madagascar. Official flight from the Royal Summer Palace in an AX-3, lasted 35 minutes and covered about 5 miles. Event was attended by the minister of Tourism (Mdm.Bemananjara), and recorded by the National Press and Television. (see P.RENARD) NOTE: Mdm.Bemananjara was the first Malagace woman to ascend (on a tether) in a balloon.
a: Texas Cooper Corp; P.O. Box 6395; Tyler, TX 75711.
r: Bio-data Jan.85; BM-JF 1977/36.
COPPINS, Jean V. BELGIUM # 4 (1870?1940) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AV. Military balloonist. (bio-data unknown)
s: Enlisted in the Belgian Army, Airplane mechanic by 1909; Distinguished airplane pilot in WW-1, 23 confirmed kills.
f: Received B-License #4 for flights made before 1904.
l: Left considerable aviation archive on his death.
r: J-P Lauwers archives.
COPE, Jack USA (1890?1950) (GB)
Sport balloonist, 1930-35 era.
l: Active user of "Jumping Balloons" (see A.SMITH).
r: Scientific American.
CORBIN, Roland Earl USA #-595 (1893?1960) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AR. Military balloonist.
b: 18 Sep.1893 Dundee, MI; Res.S.Hero, VT 1969.
e: Univ.of Michigan.
s: Officer in the U.S.Navy 1917-21 (Ens).
f: Balloon & Airship training at Akron & NAS Pensacola; FAI-ACA B-License #595 issued 17 Apr.1917; Naval Aviator #621.
r: Contact-Profiles p193.
CORBIT, Matt Quay USA #-315 (1889?1960) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AR. Military balloonist.
b: 14 Nov.1889 Carnegie, PA.
e: Pennsylvania State College.
p: Navy Aircraft Factory 1920-22; Aircraft Development Corp. 1922-28.
s: Officer in the U.S.Navy 1917-21 (Ens).
f: Free & Kite Balloon & Airship training; FAI-ACA B-License #315 issued 23 Jan.1918; Naval Aviator #549.
r: Contact-Profiles p193.
CORCORAN, James USA (1890?1909) K (SM)
See APPENDIX-B/L. Professional balloonist. (Bio-data unknown)
***Epic flight 6 Jul.1909 from Portland, ME resulted in his death.
CORMIER, Georges FRANCE (1900?1960) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AB/AC/AG/AH/AT/AZ. Aeronaut Extraordinaire.
f: First B-Flight 30 Mar.1922 w/C.DOLLFUS; Last recorded 7 Apr.1946; 530 flights in lifetime; still alive 1957.
l: Considered an expert balloonist & parachutist; Pilot in 1923 G-Bennett B-Race; Many epic Altitude/Distance/Duration flights in his lifetime.
m: Aero Club of France, V.P. h: Coupe Theisse, 1910; Coupe de Paques, 1911; La Grande Prix de L'Aero-Club, Gold Medal-1924. ***Epic flight 15 Jun.1907 (w/Mury). rescued from the North Sea. ***Epic flight 1923 in "Koto" (a wine-bottle shape, made by LaCHAMBRE). Landed safely in Montparnasse Cemetery. NOTE: Also landed the balloon on the deck of a ship in LeHaeve the same year.
r: C.Faroux, Aero Manual 1912-13; BuA p31.
CORNEILLOT, Pierre FRANCE (1790?1840) (GB)
See APPENDIX-A. Sport balloonist. (Bio-Data unknown)
f: First recorded flight 23 Aug.1825. ***Epic flight Aug.1826 (see JOLLIFFE). Known to be a pilot on other occasions, but status on this flight is unknown.
CORNELL, Sherman USA (1935- (HB)
See APPENDIX- (B). (bio-data unavailable)
b: 1935.
l: Balloon was a SEMCO.
f: Flight history unknown; Commercial Balloon license. ***Epic flight 12 Oct.1974 (w/wife Roberta, & Mrs.Edith Coppage) from Fontana, WI. Launch was uneventful, but while attempting to land in an approaching storm, the balloon grazed trees. Sherman and his wife fell from the basket, sustaining minor injuries, and the balloon continued on in increasing winds, with the passenger. Edith fell 30' from the basket near Harvard (IL) when it finally crashed into a forest, and died of her injuries.
a: 258 Harwarden Ave; Glen Ellyn, IL (708/469-9123).
r: Chicago Tribune 13 Oct.1974p4:3.
CORREA-Mayor, Waldino ARGENTINA #:3 (1870-1922) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AV/CN. Military balloonist.
b: 13 May 1870 Catamarca Prov.
d: 31 Feb.1922.
p: Officer in the Argentine Army, Engineer, Major in 1922; Founder of Military Aviation School.
f: Made 5 B-Flights 1908-09 era; Argentine B-License #3 issued 9 Jul.1908.
m: Aero Club of Argentina, Co-Founder (w/ANCHORINA), Director.
r: Cronica Historica Aeronautica Argentina.
COSTEN, William Hollis USA (1950? (HB)
FIRST Professional Afro-American Commercial Balloonist.
p: Professional Balloonist, Sky-Ventures of Hartford, CT.
f: Flight history unknown. a: 4 Brown St; Bloomfield, CN 06002; 203/242-0228.
r: Black Enterprise, Aug.89 p73.
COSYNS, Max BELGIUM (1900?1960) (GB)
See APPENDIX-K/AA/AP. Scientific balloonist.
Name sometimes spelled "COSIJNS."
p: Physicist/Engineer, stratospheric researcher.
f: Balloon and Airplane pilot. ***Epic flight 18 Aug.1932 (see A.PICCARD) into the stratosphere.
a: Ave. de l'Aviation; Sockel, Belgium.
r: RAC-Archives; La Derniere Herure-26 May 1937; BM-S/O-78/26.
COUGHLIN, J.J. USA (1880?1940) (SM)
See APPENDIX-S. Professional balloonist.
f: Made 254 para-jumps by Feb.1906.
l: Made many Parachute experiments; Determined steerability by cutting shape; First to use an apex hole to increase chute stability; determined 16" hole as best.
r: Scientific American 17 Feb.1906/151/2.
COULTER, Howard Nixon USA (1900-1994) (GB)
See APPENDIX-CZ. Military Aeronaut
Last survivor of the USS Macon crash.
b: 10 Nov.1900 California.
d: 9 Dec.1994 Los Altos Hills, CA.
e: U.S.Naval Academy, 1921; Harvard, MS-1952.
s: Officer in the U.S. Navy, LTA service for almost all of his career; Served at NAS Lakehurst, Santa Ana, Sunnyvale; Ret.1948, Recalled 1950, Ret.1950 Captain.
p: Electronics Engineer for General Electric- Palo Alto Labs.
f: Free Balloon pilot, 7 flights/25 hours; Kite Balloon Pilot 25 ascents/14 hours; Blimp pilot, 200 flights/736 hours; Rigid Airship pilot, 111 flights/2538 hours; Naval Aviator 12 May 1932.
l: Holder of several patents on Electronics, Stereo and Direction finding equipment. Epic flight 12 Feb.1935 from NAS-Sunnyvale. Staff officer on the USS Macon when it crashed into the sea.
r: Aerostation V18#1p2 (T).
COUTELLE, Jean Marie Joseph FRANCE (1748-1835) (OB)
See APPENDIX-J/T. Military balloonist.
p: Chemist, Chancellor of Dijon Academy.
s: Officer in French Army (Capt. in 1794); Appointed to command Balloon Observation Corps (D'Aerostiers); Credited with the first successful use of balloons in war; Assisted in siege of Mainz, 1795, against the Austrians; Assisted army intelligence in Egypt, 1798, after balloon equipment was lost at sea.
l: Colleague/Protégé of A.LAVOISIER.***Epic ascent May 1793 over Seine River in Paris at 2100 feet. Determined the feasibility of using tethered balloons for observation in two 4-hour flights. ***Epic ascent 2 June 1794 (w/Ordnance Officer) at Mauberg to observe disposition of enemy troops. ***Epic ascent 24 June 1794 (w/MORLOT) at Charleroi and determined enemy had overwhelming superiority. ***Epic ascent 26 June 1794 (solo for 9 hours) at Fleurus, Belgium. Demoralized enemy by accurate reporting of enemy positions for destruction by artillery by dropping messages. Observed the approach of enemy reinforcements. But Gen Jourdan forced the opposing troops to surrender, before they knew the reinforcements were approaching. NOTE: "le Compagne d'Aerostiers" was created by Louis-XVI on 2 Apr.1794. It authorized initial training of 25 Aerostiers and 4 balloons (Entrepreant, Intrepide, Martial, & Hercule). Subsequent edicts created 5 Balloon Companies and established "le Ecole Nationale Aerostatique" to train 60 more aeronauts. The Aerostiers were disbanded in 1802.
COVE, Lilly (F) BRITAIN (1885-1906) K (SM)
See APPENDIX-B. Professional balloonist.
p: Stage name: Miss Coe;
a: Resident of 170 Bow Road; London.
f: Made 21 ascents in her career; 6 descents by parachute; Protégé of BIDMEAD. ***Epic flight 11 Jun.1906 from Howath. Lost her grip on the trapeze on descent, and died of her injuries.
r: Daily Chronicle, Bradford Telegraph 12 Jun.1905.
COWAN, (Mrs.) James (F) USA (1860?1920) (GB)
See APPENDIX-S. Professional balloonist.
Boston socialite, Wife of a millionaire.
l: Owned several balloons; Made many ascents 1890-95 era.
COWAN, Thomas USA (1874?1960) (GB)
See APPENDIX-S. Professional balloonist.
b: 1874 (still alive 1954 in St.Louis).
l: Made ascents from Eclipse Park in St.Louis, MO 1898.
COXWELL, Henry Tracy BRITAIN (1819-1900) (GB)
See APPENDIX-P/U/X. Professional balloonist.
Son of Distinguished Naval Officer.
b: 2 Mar. 1819, Wouldham.
d: 5 Jan.1900, Sussex.
e: Chatham Military School.
s: Prussian Aerostier.
p: Bookkeeper, Dentist, writer, and publisher.
f: Witnessed first balloon ascent (w/D.GREEN) in 1828; First B-Flight 1841 (44?) from Alberfield; First flight as pilot 19 Aug.1844 (w/HAMPTON); Made 27 continuous/annual flights from York festivities; Made 500th flight 1863, 1000th (and last) on 17 June 1885.
l: Author of "Military Ballooning" (TL540-C8A5), also Author of "The Balloon or Aerostatic Machine"; Author of "My Life and Balloon Experiences." ***Epic flight 6 July 1847 (w/GYPSON, Pridmore, Smith) from Vauxhall Gardens near Birmingham. Evening flight with 60 pounds of fireworks display was a success. But balloon was soon enveloped in a thunderstorm. Envelope ruptured at 4000' from storm violence, but all lives were saved by Coxwell's quick thinking. He cut the appendix restraint and the envelope inverted into the net, and formed a parachute. All landed safely in the streets of Pimlico. ***Epic series of flights 1848-51 in Berlin. Demonstrated accurate bombing from a free balloon. ***Epic flight 5 Sept. 1862 (w/GLAISHER) to study physiological aspects of high-altitude flight. Flight was aborted at an est. 30,000'. Coxwell pulled the gas valving line as both were lapsing into a coma, and landed safely. ***Epic series of flights continued from 1862-66 for the British Assoc. for the Advancement of Science. ***Epic flight 4 Jun.1865 (w/RUNGE +5-Pax) from Belfast. Made a series of frightful landings covering 10 miles in 45 minutes. The pilot and five passengers were all thrown out, suffering severe injuries. Runge landed later with considerable difficulty. ***Epic series of flights 1870-71 at Cologne & Strasbourg, for the German Army. Formed two Companies of two officer balloon observers, and 42 men.
r: The Aeronautical Journal.
CRAIG, E.E. USA (1850?1874) K? (GB)
See APPENDIX-B/S. Professional balloonist.
***Epic flight about 1874 from Topeka, KA. Balloon was blown into a telegraph line. Pilot lost his grip on the trapeze, fell, and sustained serious head injuries. Survival was doubtful, but unknown.
r: AIAA box 217.
CRAIG, James USA (1928? (GB/HB)
See APPENDIX-BH/BI/BS. Professional balloonist. Pioneer hot-air balloonist.
No relation to balloonist of same era, George Craig of Iowa.
b: 1 Oct.1930 Rodgers, ID; Son of Aviation pioneer (Idaho).
p: Balloonist, ONR-China Lake, 1960-80; Weapons development; Engineer for paper company, 1980+.
f: First B-Flight (HB) Nov.1963 w/E. YOST from Souix Falls (SD); First B-Solo 16 Dec.1963 from the Stratobowl (SD); Received his FAA-Balloon License the same day; More than 750 hours in (HB) balloons by 1972 (most were tethered platforms at China Lake, CA).
l: 1964, Winner of Second National HB Championship (Reno, NV); 1965, Winner of Third National HB Championship (Stead, NV); 1966, Placed Fourth in Jean Piccard Trophy Race (St.Paul, MN); 1966, Winner of Speedway Trophy Race (Indianapolis, IN); 1966, Winner of Reno/Stead Trophy Race; 1967, Participated in Jean Piccard Trophy Race (St.Paul,MN); 1967, Participated Aerial Tramway Race (Palm Springs, CA); 1967, Placed Fourth in Speedway Trophy Race (Indianapolis,IN). ***Epic flight 1 Nov.1974 from Ridgecrest CA, to New Mexico for project "DaVinci" (details unknown).
a: P.O. Box 810; Newport, WA 99156; 509/292-2635. (Ref.E.Yost 1987).
r: Tel-con Nov.1991.
CRAMMELL, R.A. BRITAIN #*21 (1870?1916) K (GB)
See APPENDIX-AS. Military aeronaut.
Killed in airplane (Valkyre) crash 17 Sep.1911.
s: Officer in the Royal Engineers, Lt. in 911; One of only 3 pilots qualified in Kites, Balloons, Airships and airplanes.
f: FAI-RAC B-License #21 issued 11 Apr.1911; Airship license.
l: Devoted most of his energy to the science of flight; Inventor of gyro stabilization of airplanes; Made significant contributions to the development of aerial photography and bombsights.
h: Monument to his memory erected at Aldershot airbase.
r: Early British Aeronautics; Royal Engineers Journal; N.Pritchard & RAC-archives.
CRANE, William Morris USA (1917- (SM)
See APPENDIX-L. Professional Balloonist.
b: 24 Oct.1917, Breentree, MA. Nickname "Doc."
e: Brown University (RI).
s: U.S. Army (inflatables).
p: Smoke Balloonist, 1930-50; Stage name "Doc Crane"; Electrical-Mechanical Contractor.
f: First Smoke Balloon flight 1932 from Batavia, NY (student of Capton ALLEN). Resident of Adair, IA; First Hot-Air B-Flight 24 Oct.1932 (solo) from Kingstown, RI; More than 400 Smoke Balloon jumps, and 35 hours in HB by 1983.
l: 1932-40, Member of "Flying Allens" exhibition team; 1937, Developed hot-air balloon using petroleum fuel; 1939, Developed hot-air balloon using Propane fuel; 1942, Developed hot-air system for Army Kite-Balloons; 1974, Participant in "Project Nazca" in Peru. ***Epic flight 1936 (w/C.ALLEN Sr.) from Raleigh, NC. Made first night parachute jump from a Smoke-Balloon. Magnesium flares were to ignite at maximum height, pre-ignited and aeronauts had to land in the dark. ***Epic flight 24 Oct.1937 (solo) from Kingstown, RI. Flight was in a self-built hot-air balloon made of Irish linen. Burner was made from an old water heater, and used pressurized "white gas."
r: Bio-Data Aug.83.
a: Resident of Adair, IA.
CRAWFORD, ? BRITAIN (1860?1910) (GB)
See APPENDIX-F/L. Professional balloonist.
f: Made 109 ascents by 1892; Broke ribs on one, spine injury on another.
r: PYA-Scrapbook.
CRAWFORD, Mme. (F) USA (1870?1910) (SM)
See APPENDIX-S/L. Professional balloonist.
***Epic flight 5 Jul.1893 (w/Roach Frake) from St. Louis, MO. Balloon launched normally, but unbeknownst to the pilot, Frake (an assistant) was entangled in the rigging. Pilot descended by parachute; balloon continued on for 12 miles and Frake landed safely. Frake related that he had been irreligious before the experience, but was changing his future ways.
r: NT-6 Jul.1893/1/6.
CREHORE, William W. USA #-163 (1895?1960) (KB/GB)
See APPENDIX-AR. Military balloonist.
b: 13 Jan.1895 Hakensack, NJ;
e: Yale University, 1917.
s: Enlisted in the U.S.Army 5 Jun.1917; Commissioned 3 Oct.1917; Served in the B-Corp; Retired Captain.
f: Received B-Training at Tomah, Ft.Sill, & Camp de Souge FRA; FAI-ACA B-License #163 issued 24 Oct.1917.
a: 421 Kimball Ave; Westerfield, NJ.
r: The B-Section; NAAOBCB-files.
CRESPI, Carlo ITALY (1880?1940) (GB)
See APPENDIX-K/AV/CN. Sport balloonist.
***Epic flight 11 Nov. 1906 (w/USUELLI) from Milan to Aix-les-Bains in the "Citta d'Milano." First peripheral Alps flight.
CRESPIGNY, Claude C.de BRITAIN (1855?1905) (GB)
See APPENDIX-X. Sport balloonist, 1880's era.
Member of French aristocracy; Mid name: Champion.
l: Author of "40 years of a Sportsman’s Life." ***Epic flight 11 Jun.1882 from Maldon France. Broke his leg on an unsuccessful cross-Channel attempt to England. ***Epic flight about 1900. Launched in a strong wind that drove the basket into a brick wall. He attempted to lessen the impact with his foot, and broke his leg.
r: NT-12 Jun.1882/1/5.
CRIADO DEL REY, Diego SPAIN ( 1968-2004) K (GB/HB)
See Appendix B Sport Balloonist. President of the Spanish Balloon Commission.
b: 1968 Vallodolid
d: 23 Apr.2004 Galicia. Well known and highly respected among fellow sportsmen. Balloon collided with a chimney while doing a flight promotion for an upcoming religious event. A fire resulted and the three occupants fell to their deaths.
r:Skylines, June 2004 p6
CRISTI, Esteban URUGUAY (1891-1967) (GB)
See APPENDIX-w/AV/CN. Military balloonist, 1915-20.
b: 16 Jan.1891 Montevideo;
d: 15 Nov.1967 Montevideo.
s: Officer in Uruguay Army, Ret. General; General Director of the Uruguayan Military Aviation School.
f: First B-Flight 19 Sep.1916 w/AGNETA from Bernal to Marcos (5:30), his only recorded B-Flight; AAC-Argentine B-License #35 19 Sep.1916; Obtained FAI-Argentine Airplane License #85 16 Oct.1915. ***Epic flight 16 Jul.1916 (Uruguayan Independence Day) in a 50Hp. Bleriot airplane. Unauthorized, FIRST flight to cross the Platte River. He was arrested for his unlawful flight over Uruguay, found not guilty, and congratulated for his patriotic attitude.
r: Aportes para La Historica-Uruguay; AAC files.
CROCE-SPINELLI, J. E. FRANCE (1845-1875) K (HP)
See APPENDIX-B. Scientific balloonist.
Name also shown as CROCE, Spinelli Joseph Eustache.
f: Made three flights in his lifetime (Professional scientist); #1, 26 Apr.1873 with SIVEL, Jobert, & Pinaud; #2, 23 Mar.1874 with SIVEL; spent 22 hours, 40 min. aloft; #3, 15 Apr.1875 with SIVEL & TISSANDIER (as pilot) in "Zenith" (Spinelli & Sivel died of hypoxia at about 7300 meters).
CROCKER, Jeanie (F) USA (1857-1891) K (SM)
See APPENDIX-B/L/S. Professional balloonist.
Divorcee with two daughters.
p: Stage name "Nellie Wheeler."
f: First flight 17 June 1890. ***Epic flight 4 Jul.1891. Lost her grip on the trapeze during ascent. Died of impact injuries.
r: AIAA-220.
CROSBY, Clarence USA (1895-1913) K (SM)
See APPENDIX-B/L. Professional balloonist.
b: 1895 Toledo, OH. ***Epic flight 4 Jul.1913 from Bowling Green, KY. Ascent for the Wood County Sunday School Association seemed normal. Aeronaut tried three times to get his leg over the trapeze before he lost his grip and fell to his death.
r: NT-5 Jul.1913/2/8.
CROSBY, Jack USA (1890?1940) (SM)
See APPENDIX-L. Professional balloonist; Resident of Boston, MA.
***Epic flight 1 Dec.1912 (see FRAYNE) from Jacksonville, FL.
CROSBIE, Richard BRITAIN (1755-1800) (GB)
See APPENDIX-A/E/X. Professional balloonist; FIRST Irish balloonist.
b: 1755 Wicklow, Ireland.
e: Dublin College; Trinity College.
s: Officer in British Army.
p: Mechanic, Balloonist and balloon maker.
f: First B-Ascent 19 Jan.1785; Made three flights in lifetime.
l: Exhibited "Aerostatic Chariot" in Dublin Aug.1784. ***Epic flight 19 Jan. 1785 from Ranelagh Gardens in Dublin. Had to be rescued from the sea. ***Epic flight 12 May 1785 from Dublin. First attempt to cross the Irish Sea, but balloon had insufficient gas (See MAGUIRE). ***Epic flight 19 July 1785 from Dublin. Second unsuccessful attempt to cross the Irish Sea. Rescued by being towed to shore after spending three hours in the water.
CROSIER, Russell William USA #-1049 (1908?1980) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AR. Professional Aeronaut.
b: 24 Jun.1908 Montrose, OH.
e: Ohio State University, Civil Engineer-1927.
p: Started as a balloon constructor for Goodyear in 1928, Training instructor, Served as Airship test pilot of U.S.Navy K& ZPG airships, Retired Airship Operations Manager.
f: Received Balloon & Airship pilot training in Akron; FAI-ACA B-License #1049 issued 8 Jun.1930.
h: Received the 1943 Litchfield Award for saving a Navy airship on an inflight fire.
r: BF-V12 #8 p1.
CROSLIE, Richard USA (1770?1820) (GB)
See APPENDIX-S. Professional balloonist.
p: Lecturer.
f: First recorded ascent 27 Oct.1800 from New York City; Worked for Rickets Circus at "Vernon's Garden"; Reportedly made ascents from Philadelphia later that year.
r: New York Daily Advertiser, 14 Oct.1800.
CRUM, Harold Webster USA #-1052 (1903-1981) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AR. Professional Aeronaut.
b: 26 Nov.1903 Columbus, OH;
d: Spring 1981.
e: Ohio State University, Civil Engineer-1927.
p: Airship fleet engineer for Goodyear; Manager for Avco-Lycoming; Owner of his own successful business.
l: Served aboard the "Hindenburg" as an official observer in 1936.
f: Received Balloon & Airship pilot training in Akron; FAI-ACA B-License #1052 issued 21 Jul.1930.
r: BF-J/A 1981p9 (T).
CUMMINGS, Wallace C. USA #-860 (1891-1922) K (KB/GB)
See APPENDIX-AR. Military Balloonist.
b: 25 Jul.1891 Springfield, TN;
d: 20 Feb.1922 Hampton, VA.
s: Officer in the U.S.Army B-Corps.
f: FAI-ACA B-License #860 issued 3 Sep.1919; was receiving airship training at time of death. ***Epic flight 20 Feb.1922 (see MABRY). Killed in "Roma" airship crash.
CUNNINGHAM, ? BRITAIN (1870?1920) (GB)
Sport balloonist 1904 era. Bio-Data unknown.
CUNNINGHAM, William USA (1955? (HB)
See APPENDIX-BK (7). Professional balloonist.
b: E.Arkansas.
e: Memphis (TN) Public Schools; Memphis College.
p: Safety Consultant, Lube-Business owner; Professional balloonist, 1978-96.
f: first B-Flight 1978.
l: Winner of many competitive events; Placed top 10 in 7 U.S.National Championships since 1980; Placed top 10 in 4 World Championships.
a: Resident of Memphis, TN.
r: BL-Mar.96 p33.
CURTIS, Albert USA (1875?1920) (SM)
See APPENDIX-L/S. Professional balloonist 1888-95 era.
Nickname: Burt; Resident of Grand Rapids, MI. ***Epic flight 1 Aug.1895 from Milwaukee, WI. Ascent in a strong wind propelled him into a tree. He & his parachute detached and he fell to the ground with severe leg & back injuries.
r: Boston Daily Advertiser 3 Aug.1895.
CURTIS, John G. USA (1949-1995) (HB)
See APPENDIX-B (+1). Sport balloonist.
f: B-License issued 1995.
l: Owner of a new B-Works balloon.
m: BFA.
a: 4200 Bent Tree Drive; Edmond, OK 73034. ***Epic flight 9 Dec.1995 (w/woman passenger) from a schoolyard in Oklahoma City, OK. The balloon traveled a short distance after launch, contacted powerlines near downtown, and exploded in flames. John died on impact and his passenger was burned beyond recognition.
a: Contact: Mike Wilson; 9 Weatherwood Lane; Maumelle, AR 72113-6442.
r: B-Life Jan.1996 p8.
CUSTER, George Armstrong USA (1839-1876) (HP)
p: Union General; Successfully used observation balloons 1863; Observed the evacuation of Yorktown, and took advantage; Worked with J.ALLEN during American Civil War.
CUSTER, Levitt Luzern USA #- 38 (1888-1962) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AF/AI/AR. Sport balloonist.
b: 27 July 1888, Dayton, OH;
d: 30 Aug.1962 Dayton, OH.
p: Industrialist, Inventor of mechanical devices.
f: First recorded B-Flight 29 June 1909 with BUMBAUGH; FAI-ACA B-License #38 issued 1908; Airplane pilot; Last B-Flight 1923; Made only 10 B-Flights in his lifetime; Flew "Jumping Balloons" using a hand-operated overhead prop.
l: Lifelong friend of the Wright Brothers; Invented & patented the "Bubble Stratoscope" (an instrument to tell climb or descent).
m: NAA, Official observer 1909-15. ***Epic flight 1 May 1909 from Dayton, OH. Launch was off the roof of the 10-story, Rebold Building. The big job was to get the gas to the top of the building; the flight was easy. His flight made some record for distance covered in one hour.
CUTTER, Sydney Dillon USA (1934- (HB)
See APPENDIX-BF/BJ/BK/BO/BR. Professional Aeronaut.
b: 9 May 1934, Albuquerque, NM.
s: U.S. Air Force, 1955-60, Ret. Captain.
p: Professional pilot, Aviation Company owner.
f: B-License #1211033 issued 1962 (issued on request), self taught; First B-Flight (solo) 4 June 1971 (with mother); Flew balloons in Mexico, France, Canada, Sweden, & Hawaii; More than 2000 B-Hours (18,000 in all aircraft) by 1983; BFA Designated Master B-Instructor; FAA Designated pilot examiner and repairman.
l: 1972, Founded what became the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque; 1972, Became distributor of Raven Balloons; 1973, Placed second in World Hot-Air championships; 1973-75, Organizer of "Bahama to U.S. Balloon Clasic"; 1976, Built & flew light-weight "knock-down" balloon; 1978, Placed first in U.S. National B-Races; 1979, Placed second in World Hot-Air championships; 1979-81, Designed and flew hot-air airship; 1980, Made flight at the opening of Winter Olympics; 1982, Founded World Balloon Corporation; 1982, Founded "Balloon Inspection Clinic."
m: BFA-Life member, Treasurer two terms; Abq. Aerostat Ascension Assoc. ("QuadA"); Founder & Charter Member; CIA-FAI Delegate 1995.
h: Montgolfier Diploma, FAI-1976; BFA-Presidents Award 1976; Abq. Sports Hall of Fame; Established a B-Service Award. ***Epic flight 1974 (solo) from Kaneohe Hawaii. Initial ascent was on a 1600' tether line, to repair antenna cable across Horseshoe Canyon of the Pali Mountains. The tether was cut as a maturing thunderstorm approached. An attempt was made to out-climb it, but balloon was sucked into the center. Violent wind, and heavy rain was encountered, before the balloon broke out of the storm, and landed safely. ***Epic flight 1975 (solo) from the bottom of the Grand Canyon in "Sky Chariot." Awe-inspiring flight for a movie film, ended by landing on a ledge, and being lifted out by helicopter. ***Epic flight 1975 (w/WOESSNER) from New Jersey in "Rainbow Rider." Successful flight ended with a landing in the streets of Brooklyn. However, pilot was jailed for "not having permission to land at that specific location." ***Epic flight 1978 (w/J.Bickford) from Cat Cay, Bahamas, in "Jolly Roger." Trans Ocean attempt to Florida ended in the water when fuel was exhausted. Both aeronauts were rescued from "Devil's Triangle."
r: Bio-Data Feb.83.
CUTTER, William USA (1932- (HB)
See APPENDIX-BK/BO/BJ. Professional Aeronaut.
Brother of balloonist, Sidney.
b: 26 May 1932, Albuquerque, NM.
e: New Mexico Military Institute, BSME-1955.
s: U.S. Army, 1955-57, Tank Driver.
p: Aircraft Sales and Service.
f: FAA B-License #1189728 issued 1963 (on request), self taught; First B-Flight 3 June 1971 (with brother Sid); First B-Solo 4 June 1971 from Albuquerque; More than 1100 B-Hours (other aircraft unknown) by 1987; FAA Licenses for Single & Multi-Engine Airplanes; & Helicopters.
l: 1972, Placed 3rd in U.S.National B-Championship; 1973, Placed 4th in U.S.National B-Championship; 1973, Placed 2nd in World HB-Championship.
h: 1973, Silver Medal for world competition achievement.
m: BFA.
r: Bio-data form May 1987.
CZERNIAWSKI, Jerzy POLAND (1945- (GB)
See APPENDIX-BO/BO. Sport balloonist. (Bio-data unavailable)
f: POL-FAI B-License #B-2167.
l:Competitor in many National & In'tl Gas balloon events.
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