-G-
GABEL, Thomas USA (1947-1995) (HB)
See APPENDIX-BK (4)/BO (5). Sport & Professional balloonist.
b: 14 Jan.1947 Morris, IL.
d: 15 Feb.1995 Masai Mara Kenya.
e: Cabrillo College; Western Illinois Univ.,BA (English)-1969.
p: Carpenter/roofer for B.MURTORFF in 1970; Semi-Professional balloonist 1972-85; Real estate adjuster.
f: First B-Flight 1 Aug. 1969 with Derick Howard; First B-Solo Feb.1970 from Eureka, IL; Flight Instructor was Bill Murtorff; FAA B-License issued Jan.1971; More than 2200 B-Hours by 1987; 34 airplane pilot hours.
l: 1972, Placed 9th in U.S.National HB-Races; 1972, Founded "Illinois B-School" (Eureka, IL); 1973, Winner of U.S.National Hot-Air B-Races; 1973, Founded "Balloon Loft" FAA Repair Station; 1977, Placed 7th in U.S.National HB-Races; 1979, Placed 5th in U.S.National HB-Races.
h: Ashes dropped over Kenya by fellow balloonists.
m: Balloon Federation of America. ***Epic flight ? Sep.1976 (solo) from Sieverville, TN. Crossed the Great Smoky Mountains, and landed at Mt.Rest, SC after a magnificent flight of 4 hours 30 minutes.
a: Wife Linda & Son Nate; 17 W 708 Butterfield Rd.; Oakbrook Ter.,IL 60181; 312/691-1185.
r: Telcom Oct.87.
GAGE, Carl USA (1935-2000) (HB)
B: 30 Aug.1935;
d: 5 Feb. 2002. Sport & Professional balloonist.
e: Univ. of Miami (FL) 1960. Balloon builder, Costa Mesa, CA. Professional Scuba diver. Airport Manager, Ociano, CA. Licensed Airplane and Balloon pilot.
r: Pers. Interview.
GAGER, Oskar A. USA (1810?1870) (HP)
p: Newspaper publisher; Resident of Bennington, VT.
l: Wealthy patron of the sport of ballooning; Made one flight w/LaMOUNTAIN from Troy, NY previous to 1859; Financed early Civil War balloon endeavors of J.LaMOUNTAIN; Inventor of "flameless heater" (pressurized alcohol) for balloons. ***Epic flight 2 July 1859 (see WISE) from St.Louis, MO in "Atlantic." Served as Scientific observer; Balloon was severely damaged. r: City of Flight p45.
GALE, ? AUSTRALIA (1840?1900) (GB)
Pioneer Australian balloonist. ***Epic flight 20 Jan.1870 from Sydney. Gas quality was so poor that he disconnected the basket, and flew from the load ring.
GALE, George Burcher ENGLAND (1784-1850) K (GB)
See APPENDIX-B/X. Professional balloonist.
b: May 1794 Fulham;
d: 9 Sep.1850 France.
p: Officer in Royal Navy; actor, theatrical producer.
f: First B-Ascent 1831 from New York City with ROBERTSON; First B-Solo 7 Apr.1847 in balloon acquired from COXWELL; Made more than 105 fights in his lifetime.
l: Made many flights mounted on horseback (forced to discontinue the practice in England due to pressure from pro-animal groups); Designed & successfully flew double gondola (one below the other) for night fireworks displays; Designed & successfully flew auxiliary-neck balloons (to contain the excess gas on climb); Alcoholic, considered drunk on his final flight. ***Epic flight 8 Jul.1850 across the English Channel. ***Epic flight 8 Sep.1850 from Bordeaux, France in "Royal Cremore." Flight was made seated on a horse (standing on an open platform), and successfully completed. Farmer/bystanders inadvertently let go of the balloon restraining lines after the horse was released. As the balloon started to rise, Gale held onto the guide rope and eventually fell to his death. His body was found in a field the following day.
GALVIN, Halone Ladd (F) USA (1952-1994) (HB)
Sport balloonist; FIRST Hawaiian resident balloonist; FIRST Native American (Navajo Indian) Woman balloonist.
b: 1 Nov.1952 Albuquerque, NM; d: 3 May 1994 Kailua-Kona, HI (cancer).
p: Personnel specialist.
f: First B-Flight Oct.1980 w/Jay Mason; First B-Solo 16 Oct.82; FAA B-License #[redacted] issued 23 Oct. 1982; More than 412 B-Hours.
l: 1983, Made the first Hot-Air B-Flight on the Island of Hawaii;1988, Participated in the Australian Nat.B-Championships (Brisbane) Winner of Wallaby-Hop event;1990 & 91, Participated in the S.S.Nat.HB-Championships;1992, Flew as pilot from Kichwa-Tembo Kenya (16 Sept); Inflated Worlds largest production balloon, flew to Tanzanian border.
h: Formally recognized by the Hawaiian State Legislature as the FIRST "Hawaiian" balloonist.
m: BFA; Alb'que Aerostat Ascension Association. ***Epic flight 7 Sep.1991 from Baton Rouge (LA). Survived powerline contact with serious injuries.
r: Personal Interview-1992; BL-Sep.91, Jul.94p8 (T); M.Galvin archives.
GAMBETTA, Leon M. FRANCE (1830?1890) (HP)
See APPENDIX-C/O. FIRST aeronaut hit by groundfire.
p: Minister of War during Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71.
h: Paris Monument erected in his honor 14 July 1888. ***Epic flight 7 Oct. 1870 (w/TRICHET, pilot) from Paris during Prussian siege. Gambetta sustained the first enemy gunshot wound while in flight, but landed safely at Tours. He then proceeded to raise an army that eventually lifted the siege, and ended the war (France capitulated).
r: l'Aerophile V2#5p97.
GARDNER, Guy Nelson USA #-680 (1888-1953) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AR. Military aeronaut.
b: 19 Nov.1888 Oakley, KA;
d: 14 May 1953 Denver, CO; Education & profession unknown.
s: Officer in the U.S.Navy 1917-21.
f: Balloon & Airship training at Akron & NAS-Pensacola; FAI-ACA B-License #680 issued 4 Sep.1918; Naval Aviator #1561. a: 6401 E.17th Ave.; Denver, CO 80220.
r: Contact-Profiles p406.
GARDNER, Russell USA (1880?1940) (GB)
l: Sport balloonist 1907-10 era; Purchased "Mars" balloon from Aero Club of St.Louis, July 1907.
GARNERIN, Andre Jacques FRANCE (1769-1823) (GB)
See APPENDIX-A/C/Q/X. Professional balloonist, 1785-1814 era.
b: 31 May 1769, Paris;
d: 21 Aug.1823; Husband of Jeanne, uncle of Elisa, both professional balloonists.
p: Official balloonist to the Court of Napoleon, 1801. NOTE: He was fired in disgrace after ominous launching of an unmanned balloon from Paris for the coronation of Napoleon. It landed the next day on the statue of Nero in Rome, Italy (other reports as at Anguillara, near Lk.Bracasando (35 Km.North of Rome). The place of landing was interpreted as a bad omen. The balloon was given to the Pope; A successor gave it to the Vatican observatory after it was rediscovered in the archives 28 Apr.1904.
f: First B-Flight Aug.1785 from Lesle, France.
l: Built & flew first self-made balloon 31 May 1790; Made 6 parachute descents in 7 years (1797-1814). ***Epic (first) flight Aug. 1785 from Lesle, France. 300-mile flight was the first to drop a dog (safely) by parachute. ***Epic flight 22 Oct.1797 with a hot-air balloon (reported as using hydrogen as a heat source?). Made the first parachute jump from a balloon. He experienced violent oscillations due to instability of the design. Landing impact rendered him unconscious. ***Epic flight 21 Seep.1802 from Vauxhall Gardens in London. Made the first successful (& uneventful) parachute jump (his 5th in Britain. A redesigned 32-gore parachute, similar to modern designs. ***Epic flight 4 Aug.1807 from Paris Tivoli Gardens. Night flight in a hydrogen gas balloon decorated with flame-lit lamps. The flight landed safely the next morning. ***Epic flight 21 Sep.1807 from Paris Tivoli Gardens. Balloon immediately ascended into a violently developing thunderstorm. It was a terrifying uncontrollable flight, ended by crash-landing on a mountain more than 300 miles from start.
GARNERIN, Elisabeth FRANCE (1800-1845) (GB)
See APPENDIX-A/C. Professional balloonist.
b: 1800 (1802?);
d: 1845 (1853?); Also known as Elisa; Niece of Andre & Jeanne.
p: FIRST professional balloon-parachutist; Full-time occupation for 15 years.
f: Expert balloonist, noted for unique sport landing skill; First balloon-jump 25 Aug.1815 from Uncle Jacques balloon at Champ de Mars; Made 22nd ascent 5 Mar.1824 in Italy; 60 in lifetime; Made many famous B-Jumps 1815-26 France, Germany Spain, Russia and Italy-1820 & 24.
GARNERIN, Jeanne (F) FRANCE (1779-1847) (GB)
See APPENDIX-A/C. Professional balloonist.
b: 1779;
d: 1847. Maiden name Genevieve Labrosse; Wife of Andre Jacques.
p: FIRST professional woman balloon pilot, 1802-12 era.
f: First B-Flight 1799 with husband; First woman to parachute from a balloon (Sept. 1802, England); Flight career from 1799 to 1825. ***Epic flight 23 May 1804 from Moscow with a Russian woman.
GARRETT, (Mrs.) Jessie (F) USA (1870?1892) K (SM)
See APPENDIX-B/L/S. Professional balloonist.
***Epic flight 5 Jul.1892 from Bufton, OH. Ascent was normal, but the pilot was seen struggling to release the parachute. When it did release, it did not fully open before impact, and she died of her injuries.
r: NT-6 Jul.1892/2/1.
GARTZ, Richard Crane USA #-270 (1894?1970) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AR. Military aeronaut.
b: 25 Oct.1894 Chicago, IL; Res. Pasadena, CA 1969.
e: Occidental College.
p: Oil well driller, Crager Machine-Chicago.
s: Officer in the U.S.Navy 1917-21 (Lt.); Balloon & Airship pilot & instructor; Served in patrol duty at NAS-Paimboeuf France 1918; Served as Dirigible inspector in Paris 1919-20.
f: Balloon & Airship training at Akron & NAS-Pensacola; Graduated from first U.S.Navy LTA class 2 Oct.1917; FAI-ACA B-License #270 issued 26 Sep.1917; Naval Aviator #83.5.
l: Piloted FIRST Navy blimp over New York City.
a: 3261 Overland Dr.; Culver City, CA.
r: Contact-Profiles p48; Kite Balloons to Airships.
GASNIER, Pierre FRANCE (1874?1920) (GB)
b: 1874 Calais; Sport balloonist 1900-10 era; Brother of balloonist "Rene."
l: Skilled Balloon & Airplane pilot; received serious airplane injuries 17 Sep.1908 (Angiers).
m: Aero Club of France, Officer in many aero-commissions.
r: C.Faroux, Aero Manual, 1912-13; City of Flight p152.
GASNIER, Rene FRANCE (1870?1920) (GB)
See APPENDIX-U/AG/AT/AH. Sport balloonist 1900-10 era.
b:1874.
f: Skilled Balloon & Airplane pilot.
l: Amateur athlete, yachtsman; First B-Flight 1904; Made 25 B-Flights by 1906; Used a balloon in Algeria-1898, and Tunisia.
m: Aero Club of France, Officer in many aero-commissions.
h: Sports medal of 1906; Aero Club Champion of 1907; La Grande Medialle de L'Aero-Club de France-1912. ***Epic flight 21 Oct.1907 (w/LEVEE) from St.Louis, MO in "L'Anjou." Flight in G-Bennett B-Race covered 690 Sm. in 38.5 hours.
r: FAI files; City of Flight p98.
GATCH, Thomas Leigh USA (1925?1974) K (HB/GB)
See APPENDIX-B/I. Sport balloonist. Resident of Fairfax, VA.
b: 13 Sep.1925 Annapolis, MD;
d: about 21 Feb.1974; Son of a prominent U.S.Navy Vice-Admiral.
e: West Point Military Academy-1947.
p: Officer in U.S. Army, Retired Colonel, Pentagon staff.
f: First B-Flight 1973 with A.FAIRBANKS; FAA B-License #[redacted] issued 25 Aug.1973; All previous 19 ascents (23hrs. 35min) were in HOT-AIR balloons; Made only one gas B-Flight, his last.
l: Cribbage, Skiing, Stamp collecting, Stock market, Politics; Author of fiction novel.
m: Balloon Federation of America; Balloon Club of America.
h: Bronze Star (Korea); Legion of Merit. ***Epic flight 18 Feb. 1974 from Harrisburg, PA Intl. Airport in "Light-Heart." Transatlantic attempt in a super pressure helium cluster-balloon, with a sealed spherical gondola. Observed 3-days after launch, near Canary Islands. Body never recovered.
r: W.ARMSTRONG-Archives 1986.
GATES, Harold USA (1890?1940) (SM)
See APPENDIX- (B)/L. Professional balloonist.
b: Newburyport, CN. ***Epic flight 16 Sep.1913 (w/Geo.Bernier, 13) from Woodstok, CN. Bernier, acting as an assistant, wrapped his restraining rope around his arm. Not having enough time to unwrap at launch, he was carried aloft for 500' before the rope came loose, and he fell to his death. The pilot was unaware of the boy’s predicament until landing.
r: NT-17 Sep.1913/1/7.
GATES, Joseph USA (1838?1900) (GB)
See APPENDIX-S. Sport balloonist.
b: 1838, Oakland, CA.
p: Fruit vendor. Nickname: Ready Gates by Fan Francisco newspapers. ***Epic flight 28 Jan.1854 from Oakland, CA. Balloon owned by KELLY, was too heavy to carry him. He stripped it down, and lashed a board to the load ring as a seat. Since he was still too heavy, he asked for a volunteer from the crowd. Gates promptly jumped on, and made a one hour flight, landing in Suisun Valley.
r: Alta California 29 Jan.1854; recheck E/F 28 Aug.1852 & 53 (?)
GATES, Warner B. USA #926 (1895?1940) (KB/GB)
See APPENDIX- (B)/L. Military balloonist.
b: 25 Nov.1895
e: Northwestern University, BE-1917.
s: Officer in the U.S.Army; Captain in 1928.
f: Received Balloon & Airship training at Ross Field; Tactical Airship training at Scott Field May 1923.
r: Who's Who in Aviation-1928.
GAUDET, ? FRANCE (1870?1930) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AU. Professional balloonist. (Bio-Data unknown)
p: Balloon pilot and builder.
l: 1905, Operated (w/H.E.HONEYWELL) a large tethered gas balloon at the Louisiana Purchase Exposition in St. Louis, MO. Rescued from the Ocean 7 Jan.1907.
GAUDRON, Auguste Eugene BRITIAN (1868-1913) (GB)
See APPENDIX-X/AG/CK. Aeronaut Extraordinaire.
Son-in-law of Percival SPENCER.
b: 1868 Paris;
d: 13 Nov.1913 Paris.
e: Paris.
p: Professional balloonist & balloon maker in Paris to 1890; Was a true showman (learned trade from LACHAMBRE); Prof. balloonist & B-Maker for Spencer & Sons, London 1890-1913. f: First B-Flight 1886 w/LACHAMBRE; First Para-descent 1889 from Hastings; Made 20 jumps in lifetime; Had 8 balloons, made many World flights, in 24-year career; Flew in Trieste, Greece, France, Britain, Ireland.
l: Developed his own business team of male & female assistants (the use of females caused him great controversy); Builder/pilot of the "Barton Airship" (230,000CuFt) with a 50 HP Buchet engine, 1903-04.
h: Royal Aero Club Bronze Medal, 1908. ***Epic flight 1897 from Leichstershire. Balloon burst soon after launch. Pilot sustained severe injuries. ***Epic flight 11 Aug.1902 (w/F.A. Barton). Crossed the English Channel. ***Epic flight 1905 from Trieste. Thru a miss-understanding, his parachute was not put on board. Since the balloon did not have a valve, he climbed the net and rotated the envelope to release the gas. A feat never duplicated in history. ***Epic flight 12 Oct.1907 (w/Tanner & Turner) from London. Were issued the first passports for balloonists previous to flight. Landed in Sweden after covering 702 Sm. in 19-hours. ***Epic flight 22 Nov.1908 (w/MAITLAND & C.Turner) from London. Landed in Duinsk (Russia) after covering 1150 miles.
r: N.Y.Herald 29 Aug.1910; Great Flights & Air Adventures.
GAUDRAN, Marina Lois (F) BRITAIN (1894?1950) (SM/GB)
Daughter of A.GAUDRON & Marina SPENCER.
b: 1894 London. Nickname "Ena" (not to be confused w/Ena Louise Spencer); Stage name: "Ena Spencer."
f: First flight 8 Aug. 1903 (age 9) with father.
p: Professional balloonist.
r: London Standard 29 Aug.1910.
GAUTHIER, Alfred M. FRANCE (1840?1900) (GB)
Sport balloonist. ***Epic flight 22 Jun.1891 (w/1-Pax) from Paris in "La Patrie." Balloon launched in a strong wind gust that dashed it against a chimney. Bystanders pulled the deflating balloon down and rescued the seriously injured aeronauts.
r: NT-12 Jul.1891 p2/6.
GAY, George M. USA (1894?1950) (HP)
b: 1894 Norwalk, OH. Assistant to F.GOODALE.
***Epic flight 5 Jul.1913 from New York, NY. Goodale was ballasting his new airship, preparing to mount the engine and controls. The balloon got away from the handlers, with Gay on the catwalk. Gay was seen to throw 3-bags of ballast overboard in quick succession, and climbed to an est. 8000'. He eventually was rescued off Sand Point, L.I., but the airship was lost.
r: NT-6 Jul.1913/1/8.
GAY-Lussac, Joseph Louis FRANCE (1778-1850) (GB)
See APPENDIX-A. Scientific balloonist 1804 era.
Lussac is the area of France where he had an estate.
b: 6 Dec.1778 St.Leonard;
d:: 9 May 1850 Paris; Son of a public official and judge.
e: Ecole Polytechnique de Paris 1797-1800; Ecole des Ponts et Chaussees, 1801-Engineering.
p: Chemist, Physicist, and scientist of great respectability; Professor of Physics & Chemistry at Mue National d'History; Served in French Chamber of Deputies 1831-39.
f: Made three B-Flights (all for science) in his lifetime.
l: Credited with defining thermal expansion of gasses; Determined that the chemical composition of the atmosphere remained constant regardless of altitude; Made his fortune as a technical advisor to the wine industry.
m: Institut de France. ***Epic flight 23 Aug.1804 (w/M.BIOT) from (the Conservatory) Paris. Scientific flight was made to test changes in magnetism, electricity, and galvanism. He also released a bird from an estimated 13000' to prove it could fly in rarified atmosphere. ***Epic flight 15 Sep.1804 (solo, his second) from Paris. Tested humidity, and took air samples at (7016m) 23018'. Experienced great fatigue, fell asleep, but landed safely after 5:45:00.
r: Encyclopedia Bratanica.
GEDDES, Homer Robinson USA #-285 (1896-1964) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AR. Military aeronaut.
b: 16 Sep.1896 Lowellville, OH;
d: 22 Jan.1964 E.Orange, NJ.
e: Oberlin College; Case Institute of Technology.
s: Officer in U.S.Navy 1917-21 (LTJG).
p: Marine Engineer.
r: Contact-Profiles p173.
f: Balloon & Airship training at Akron & NAS-Pensacola; FAI-ACA B-License #285 issued 9 Jan.1918; Naval Aviator #552.
GEIGER, Harold USA (1884?1950) (GB)
b: 7 Oct.1884 Planefield, NJ.
s: Officer in U.S.Army Signal Corps, Aviator-1912; Airship liaison to England France, and Italy; Commander of Ross Field 1920-21; Distinguished Military Aviation career, Ret-1945.
e: U.S. Military Academy at West Point-1904.
f: B-Student & Instructor at Camp d'Sourge 1917; Flew Airships in Italy & England 1919; No FAI B-License, Had a military "Balloon Brevet."
GEIGER, Roy Stanley USA #-174 (1885-1947) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AR. Military aeronaut.
b: 25 Jan.1885 Middleburg, FL;
d: 3 Jan.1947 Bethesda, MD.
e: Stetson University-LLB; Univ. of Chicago.
p: Lawyer.
s: Officer in Marine Corp; Commander of Quantico (VA); Commander of Port of Prince (Haiti) Marine Base; Also served in Nicaragua and the Philippines; Naval Attaché to London 1941; Commander of Marine Aviation on Guadalcanal 1942; Commander of San Diego Naval Base; ONLY Marine to ever command an Army; Retired Lt.General after 40 years of continuous service.
f: Received B-Training at St.Louis, and Ft.Omaha B-Schools; FAI-ACA B-License #174 issued 7 Nov.1917; Airplane pilot-1917; Naval Aviator #49; Marine Aviator #5.
h: Navy Cross, DFC, DSM, Air Medal; Buried in Arlington National Cemetery.
m: ACA.
r: Balloons to Airships; Contact-Profiles p33.
GEISSLREITHER, Werner GERMANY (1935- (HB/GB)
See APPENDIX-BP. Sport balloonist.
b: 19 Mar.1935 Stuttgart.
e: Univ.of Stuttgart, Engineering-1964.
p: Sales manager.
f: First B-Flight 16 Jun.1963 with B.Munz from Stuttgart; First B-Solo 17 Oct.1965 from Karlsruhe; German B-License #1477-BWS (GB/HB) issued 11 Jun.1965; More than 800 B-Hours (135 gas, 77 HB starts) by 1987.
l: 1971, Winner of World Gas Balloon Championships; 1972, Placed 2nd in European Gas B-Championships; 1982, Winner of World Gas Balloon Championships.
m: DAEC; Ballonsportgruppe Stuttgart; Baden Wrioff; & Luftsport Verbound.
h: FAI-Ehrenbecher; DFAC-Ehrenbecher; DFSV-Gold Leistungsabzeichen.
r: BM-Au72/36; Bio-Data form 1987.
GENET, Edmond C. FRANCE (1763-1834) (GB)
See APPENDIX-E. Sport balloonist.
Immigrated to the U.S. about 1800.
b: 8 Jan. 1763, Versailles;
d: 14 July 1834, Albany, NY.
p: Officer in French Army, Lt. in 1780; Chief of Foreign Affairs, 1783; Inventor and Designer.
f: Holder of first U.S. patent for an aeronautical invention (Fish-shaped, horse-powered, paddle-wheel dirigible); Known to have used balloons for heavy lift vehicles.
GEOLLS, ? ENGLAND (1810?1860) (GB)
See APPENDIX-X. Sport balloonist.
***Epic flight 10 May 1843 from Glasgow, Scotland. Test flying a new experimental balloon, he crash landed in the sea and was rescued by a passing steamboat.
GERALDI, Perori ITALY (1850?1910) (OB/KB/GB)
See APPENDIX-CR. Military aeronaut.
Name sometimes spelled: Pecori Giraldi.
s: Officer in the Italian Army Balloon Corps (Aerostiers); Commander of 3rd B-Section at Triburtina (Rome) 1885; Commandant of the Italian B-Corps in Massaua, Sudan during the campaign of Feb.-Mar.1888.
f: Received B-Training at Verona July/August 1887.
l: Organized a light B-Division for Abyssinia Nov.1887; Sailed 4 Dec. w/6-Officers and 4-Engineer Sections; Erected a B-Station at Abd-el-Kader (Massaua); Moved inland w/1-Balloon wagon & 40 cylinders Jan.1888; Made first ascent at Saati (to 500m) in February; 1890, Section was reduced to 2-Officers, 5-Wagons, & 23 horses; 1895, Participated in maneuvers at Aquila; 1901, Introduced "Dracon" (German) Kite balloons; 1903, section reactivated to 6-Light, & 2-Heavy B-Sections (22 Officers and 628 Enlisted Men).
r: Pocket Book of Aeronautics, H.W.MOEDEBECK.
GERBER, Walo N. SWITZERLAND (1881?1940) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AH/AV/CH/CJ. Military balloonist.
b: 1881; emigrated to the USA (NYC) about 1925.
p: Officer in the Swiss Army Balloon Corps.
f: FAI-SAC B-License #31 issued 28 Jun.1911.
l: Participated in 1912, 13, 32, &34 G-Bennett B-Races.
r: FuA pp53.
GERICKE, Hans GERMANY (1871-1912) K (GB)
See APPENDIX-B/AH/AI/AU/H. Military balloonist.
b: 8 Dec.1871 Potsdam;
d: 20 Oct.1911 Riesa.
p: Engineer.
s: Officer in the German Army Balloon Corps.
f: First B-Flight 15 Nov.1911; Last flight 1912.
l: Pilot in the 1910 & 1911 G-Bennett B-Races.
m: Berliner, Kolner, Pommerscher, & Schlesher B-Clubs. ***Epic flight 20 Oct.1912 (w/R.Stichler) from Bitterfield in "Reichsflugverein-I." Caught in a thunderstorm over Spansberg soon after launch, it quickly climbed to 5,000 meters and exploded. Both aeronauts died on impact. A lightning strike was suspected, but no evidence of fire was found.
r: City of Flight p210; BuA p53.
GERLI, Carlo Guiseppi ITALY (1750?1800) (HB/GB)
See APPENDIX-A/E. Sport balloonist. Brother of Agostino.
p: Carpenter; Balloon maker for ANDREANI.
f: First B-Flight 25 Feb.1784 from Milan; Built & flew many early balloons (w/brother) from Milan; Participated in many Italy flights between 1784-90; Made several attempts with directional control of balloons.
l: Wrote a comprehensive treatise on ballooning.
GIANNIOTIS, Paul AUSTRALIA (1938- (HB)
See APPENDIX-BB/BO. Sport balloonist. Resident of Hong Kong.
b: 16 Jun.1938 Sydney.
e: Technical High School, 1958.
p: Airplane Flight Engineer,
f: First B-Flight 23 Nov.1975 with Geoff GREEN; First B-Solo 14 Mar.1976 from near Tokyo, Japan; PPL-Airplanes & Hot-Air Airships; Holds B-Licenses in Australia, Britain, Hong Kong.
l: 1981, Represented Hong Kong in World HB-Championships; 1983, Participated (as aide) in World HB-Championships. m: Hong Kong Balloon & Airship Club, V.Pres.1982-7; BBAC; Australian Ballooning Federation. ***Epic flight 16 Aug. 1980. Established FAI-Distance record of 154.62 Km.in an AX-4 balloon. ***Epic flight 19 Nov.1983 (w/J.Lynne) from Sydney, Australia. Flight to commemorate the 200th anniversory. of ballooning, ended safely after crossing Sydney Harbor.
r: Bio-Data-1987; Enquirer and News (Battle Creek, MI) 19 Jun.1981.
GIBBS-SMITH, Charles Harvard BRITAIN (1909-1981) (HP)
b: 22 Mar.1909 Teddington;
d: 3 Dec.1981 London.
p: Map Instructor for Royal B-Corps.
f: No record of making a B-Flight.
l: Aviation historian; Author of "Ballooning"; "History of Flying," and many other aero subjects.
GIBSON, Patrick USA (1948-1976) K (HB)
See APPENDIX-B (+1). (Bio-data unknown)
b: 1948, place unk.
d: 21 Oct.1976 Charlotte, NC (age 28).
p: Tidewater Helicopters, Sparrow Point, MD.
f: The Gibsons had no record of any balloon instruction; A Student Pilot Certificate was issued to Pat, but had expired in May; his father Sidney (age 53) supposedly had an airplane license.
l: Ownership of the balloon by Sid or Pat is unknown; Balloon (N5WB) was only used for tether promotions, as it was not considered airworthy. ***Epic flight 21 Oct.1976 (w/S.Gibson & J.Vogan) from the Smith Univ. Campus in Charlotte NC. Balloon (150,000cu.ft) was launched in mid-morning bad weather and was last seen in a rapid descent. The aeronauts apparently survived contact with a 100,000 volt powerline on landing, but were killed by the resulting propane explosion. This flight was reported as their only known free flight in a balloon.
a: Residents of Levitown, PA (family unknown).
r: (AP)NT-22 Oct.1976, Charlotte Observer 22/23 Oct.76p1; G.Stokes archives; NTSB-report. NOTES: James E.Vogan (29) was from Towson, MD. Ed YOST made the balloon. It was one of two used in the Warner Bros. film "The Great Bank Robbery." The other balloon was owned by the "Rosie O'Grady Restaurant" in Florida. George STOKES (who bought the super pressure balloon at a WB auction, and sold it to the Gibsons) reported that it was tethered by 4 ropes in a parking lot. The ropes were broken by a wind gust, and the balloon slid across the lot and touched the wires.
GIFFARD, Henri FRANCE (1825-1882) (HB/GB)
See APPENDIX-E/P/T. Professional balloonist.
b: 8 Jan.1825 Paris;
d: 15 Apr.1882 Paris.
p: Chemical Engineer, Inventor, Expert mechanic & balloon maker.
f: First flight 1851 (w/GODARD); Made many flights with Godard.
l: Built first successful steam powered airship; Flew from Paris Hippodrome, to Trappes 24 Sept. 1852 (17 miles at 6 mph); Airship was 140' long, had a 5-hp engine, & 11' dia. prop; Built large captive balloon for 1867 Paris Exhibit (5000 CM); London Exhibit (12000 CM); Paris Exhibit-1868 (25000 CM); Lifted more than 35,000 passengers, using mechanical winches; Making more than 1000 ascents.
m: Society of Civil Engineers, Pres.
GILL, Ernest USA (1880?1940) (GB)
f: First Recorded solo B-Flight 29 Jul.1908.
l: Sport balloonist 1908-10.
m: Aero club of America.
GILLEN, William C. USA (1889?1940) (SM)
See APPENDIX-L. Professional balloonist.
p: Worked for Hillside Amusement Park 1911-12. ***Epic flight 4 Jul.1912 (see T. MOORE).
r: NT-5 Jul.1912/1/5.
GIMBLE, Richard USA (1898-1970) (HP)
Aviation Historian, World renowned collector of ballooning books, correspondence, & memorabilia.
Son of a founder of Gimble Department Stores.
p: Curator of Yale Univ. Aeronautical collection.
s: Officer in the U.S. Air force, Member of the 8th Air force in WW-2. NOTE: 20,000 pieces of his personal collection are held at the Air Force Academy in Colorado (considered THE prime source of balloon history).
GIMENEZ-KRAMER, Carlos ARGENTINA #:22 (1891?1950) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AV. Military aeronaut.
e: Military College 22 Jan.1907. Attended the FIRST course of Aviation (8 Aug.1907).
s: Officer in the Argentine Air Force.
f: First B-Flight 28 Jun.1913 from Palermo in "Hurracan"; Landed in Ezeiza after one hour, 20 minutes; Made 2 recorded B-Flights in his lifetime; AAC B-License #22 issued 12 Nov.1913; Airplane #24 21 May 1913.
h: named "Father of Military Aviation" 1948. ***Epic flight 1914 (w/Goubat). Was pilot of FIRST plane crash in Argentina. Suffered severe injuries, that finished his flying career.
r: Argentine Aero Club files.
GIRARD, USA (1830?1902) K (GB)
See APPENDIX-B. Professional balloonist.
***Epic flight 24 Sep.1902 (w/Stafford) at the Massachusetts County Fair. Balloon burst at about 500'; Stafford, a parachutist, made a safe landing. (type of balloon unknown, assumed gas).
GIRAUD, Ethiene FRANCE (1865?1920) (GB)
See APPENDIX-U/AT/AG. Sport balloonist.
b: 1865 Rochefort.
p: Aviation consultant.
f: Balloon & Airplane pilot.
l: Owner of balloon "Rolla-IV"; Owner of many competition yachts; Amateur Scientist & Photographer.
h: Winner of "Lebaudy Cup" for outstanding B-Flight Jul.1901.
m: Aero Club of France.
r: C.Faroux, Aero Manual 1912-13; l'Aerophile-1901.
GLAISHER, James ENGLAND (1809-1903) (HP)
See APPENDIX-T/U/X. Scientific balloonist.
b: 1809 Ecosse (London);
d: 1903, Goyden.
p: Scientist, Meteorologist/Mathematician, Astronomer, Politician; Director of Greenwich Observatory near London; Fellow of the Royal Society.
f: Made more than 30 ascents (w/COXWELL) 1862-66, sponsored by B.A.A.S. in balloon "Mammoth" (90,000 cubic feet).
l: Editor of "Travels in the Air."
m: British Association for the Advancement of Science; Royal Meteorological Society (FM-1850). ***Epic flight 5 Sept. 1862 (w/COXWELL) from Wolverhampton. Experienced almost fatal hypoxia at est. 30,000 feet.
GLAS, Richard M. USA (1944- (HB)
See APPENDIX- (B) Professional balloonist (Bio-data unknown)
b: 15 Jan.1944.
p: Worked for AAA B-Company; 4-years experience by 1990.
f: Considered a safe and competent balloonist; Cameron O-105-603 (N364CB) balloon owned by AAA B-Company (Lynn Kenelly of Scottsdale).
f: B-License #[redacted]; 1589 TT, 1529 in balloons. ***Epic flight 3 Mar.1990 (w/4-pax) from Phoenix (AZ). After he had been flying for about one hour, he made an intermediate landing to exchange the passengers for 3 more (Robert Simms, his daughter Nancy Emele, and his grandson Thomas). On his re-ascent, a fuel leak was noted, and promptly ignited. The pilot ordered all passengers to jump (from about 10'). Robert failed to heed the warning until the balloon was 100-150', and died of his impact injuries. Richard suffered severe burns, Thomas (age 5) broke his arm, and Nancy (age 31) broke her pelvis and back.
a: 8701 N.Ave.del Sol; Phoenix, AZ. NOTE: Fuel system was highly modified to 40 tanks from 2; New tanks were not secured and a barbed fitting broke.
r: BL-Apr.90p9; NTSB-report LAX90LA109; D.Hennies archives.
GLASSFORD, William Sr. USA (1860?1920) (OB/GB)
See APPENDIX-AO. Military balloonist.
Father of famous Navy Vice Admiral.
p: Officer in U.S. Army Signal Corps Weather Bureau; B-Commander 1892-1902; Enlisted William IVY as a Sergeant; Organized first all-military U.S. Signal Corps Air Unit; Outstanding military career.
l: 1893, Bought LACHAMBRE balloon for WX-observation at Chicago; 1895, Used balloon to signal 116mi.with mirror from Ft.Logan.
GLEBE, Philip Gregory USA (1951- (HB)
See APPENDIX-BK (6)/BO (8). Professional balloonist.
b: 28 Nov.1951 Allen Park (Detroit),MI.
e: E.Michigan University, BBA-1973-Marketing.
p: Owner/Operator Renaissance Balloons; Factory authorized distributor of Cameron Balloons; Designer/builder of B-Chase vehicles.
f: First B-Flight Summer 1976 with Linden Harding; First B-Solo Spring 1977 from Ann Arbor, MI; FAA B-License #[redacted] issued Spring 1977; More than 1500 Balloon & Airship hours (+40 fixed wing) by 1993.
l: Placed top 10 in the U.S.National HB-Championships: 1983 (5), 1985 (8), 1986 (7), 1987 (7), 1989 (8), 1991 (9), 1993 (6); 1985, Participated in the World HB-Championships; 1986,87,88, BFA National Point Leader; 1988,90, Michigan State Champion; 1989, NBRA National Champion, and Point Champion; 1990, PBA National Champion and Point Champion; 1990, NBRA National Point Champion; 1991, Placed fourth in World HB-Championships (Saga, Japan).
m: BFA; Prof. Balloonists Assoc; Nat.Balloon Racing Association; South East Michigan B-Association, Pres-1985 & 86. ***Epic flight 13 Feb.1982 (w/Jeff van Alstine) from West Bend, WI. Flying at 12,000' AGL and -20F, They crossed Lake Michigan and landed near Lansing (MI), The flight covered a distance of 163 miles (83 over water) in 5 hours (average speed of 47MPH).
a: 12625 E.Grands River Ave; Brighton, MI 48116.
r: Bio-data 1991&3.
GLENDINNING, Robert USA #- 51 (1867-1936) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AR. Military balloonist.
b: 10 Aug.1867 Philadelphia.
d: 19 Apr.1936 Philadelphia, PA.
e: University of Pennsylvania-1888; Cheltham Military Academy.
s: Officer in the U.S. Army 1890-1920, Ret. Colonel; Served as Calvary Officer in Spanish American War; Served as Aviation Officer in Balloon Corps WW-1.
p: Banker, Stockbroker, Governor of the New York Stock Exchange; Established the Philadelphia School of Aviation.
f: FAI-ACA Balloon license #51 issued 1913; French B-License-1913; Airplane pilot-1913; Airplane flight instructor 1915-17; FAI-ACA Airplane license #28 issued 1915; Distinguished career.
l: Lifetime aeronautical enthusiast.
m: Many Civic and Philanthropic organizations.
h: D.S.M.; Order of "The Crown of Italy" (from King V.Emmanuel).
r: NT-20 Apr.1936 p19/2; AAAHS-Vol.12/p30.
GLENNON, John USA (1960? (HB)
See APPENDIX- (B) Professional balloonist. (Bio-data unknown)
m: BFA.
l: Pilot of Thunder & Colt AX-7-77A (N65294). ***Epic flight 27 Jun.1993 (w/William R.Brotherton) from Denver (CO) area. Ascent to 190'was to allow Brotherton to make his first bungee-jump from the basket. Unfortunately, the bungee was estimated to be 70' too long and William died on impact.
a: John Glennon; 5185 Raliegh St.; Denver, CO 80212.
r: Denver Post; Rocky Mountain News; Skylines Jul-93; S.Kneeland archives.
GLIDDEN, Charles Jasper USA #- 12 (1857-1927) (GB)
See APPENDIX-C/AF/AR. Sport balloonist 1905-1910 era.
b: 29 Oct.1857 Lowell MA.
d: 11 Sep.1927 Boston, MA.
p: Wealthy financier of early automobile manufacturing; Manager of the Atlantic & Pacific Telephone Co. 1873; 1/6th owner of Bell Telephone System on retirement in 1900.
f: First recorded B-Flight 8 May 1908; First solo B-Flight (night) 2 July 1908 (his tenth flight); Made 42 B-Flights in the USA, 4 in England, 3 in France; Most flights were made from N.Adams or Pittsfield, MA.
l: Owned his own balloon "Boston" (made by STEVENS); Demonstrated the accuracy of bombing by balloon 8 May 1909; Financier of the "American Aerial Navigation Company" of Boston; An Airship Airline between Boston & New York City; Leader of early Automobile Club movement in the USA; Made the first automobile trip around the World in 1901; Covered 39 countries in 46,528 miles; Traveled nationwide on business; Used opportunity to spark enthusiasm for ballooning, and the establishment of B-Clubs.
m: ACA (FM), influential member; Aero Clubs of England & France; Royal Geographic Society of London; Auto Club of America. ***Epic flight 2 Jul.1908 from Pittsfield, MA in "Boston." Launched at 2:57 AM, he was immediately sucked into a thunderstorm, but landed safely 4:12 AM in Wilmington, VT. NT-3 Jul.1908/4/2. ***Epic flight 19 Jul.1908. Was shot at in flight. ***Epic flight May.1910 (w/David & Mabel Tott) from Connecticut. Successful flight with the Director of Amhurst Observatory, studied Halley's Comet.
r: City of Flight p98.
GLIK, Edward USA #-107 (1887?1950) (KB/GB)
See APPENDIX-AR/AW. Military balloonist.
b: 8 Aug.1894 St.Paul, MN.
s: Officer in the U.S.Army B-Corps; Commander of HQ B-Group.
f: B-Training from the Missouri Aeronautical Society; Advanced training at Ft. Omaha, and Camp de Souge FRA; FAI-ACA B-License #107 issued 12 Sep.1917.
a: 5710 Waterman Ave; St.Louis, MO.
r: The Balloon Section.
GLORIEUX, Jean-Baptiste FRANCE (1834-1905) (HB/GB)
See APPENDIX-U/Y/AG/AT. Aeronaut extraordinaire.
b: 1834 Tournai;
d: 24 Mar.1905 Roubaix (age 71); Resident of Flanders area between Lille FRA and Belgium.
e: Studied Mechanics, Chemistry, Science and Physics.
p: Professional balloonist and B-Maker 1860-1905 era; Built both Hot-Air & Gas balloons; Weaver & Metal turner in later life.
f: First ascent 29 Sep.1860 from Roubaix on a trapeze; Ascended in a hot-air balloon and descended by parachute; Made 641 ascents (more than 3000 hours aloft) in his lifetime; Owned 15 gas, and 6 Hot-Air balloons.
l: Trapeze artist until his last flight at age 70. ***Epic flight attempt 1861 in a gas balloon. Lacking sufficient lift, it failed to rise, and the irate crowd destroyed it. He made a second attempt later, on a wood seat. ***Epic flight 1 Jun.1885 from Lille in "Jupiter." Ascended in a 500cm gas balloon, and landed in the sea off Dieppe. He was rescued by a steamship after his small signal fire was seen from the shore. Claimed it was the only accident of his flight career. Epic flight 1901 from Croix. Covered 840 kilometers in 9-hours.***Epic flight 2 Jun.1903 (w/Troller & Masson). Crowd attacked the balloon and destroyed it.
r: Morning Advertiser 25 Mar.1905. NOTE: His funeral was attended by a formal delegation from the Aero Club of France. In lieu of a cushion of flowers in the procession, a friend carried the original seat of his first aerial voyage.
r: l'Aerophile-Feb.1903; Trailrope, Aug/Sep91.
GODARD, Alfred FRANCE (1862?1900) (GB)
Son of Eugene P. (Genealogy not verified).
p: Professional balloonist at Tivoi Gardens; Flew "Montebello" balloon.
GODARD, Auguste FRANCE (1833-1859) (GB)
Son of balloonist Edme Pierre.
b: 1833;
d: 1859.
p: Professional balloonist 1850-59 era.
GODARD, Edme Pierre FRANCE (1802-1873) (GB)
See APPENDIX-N. Professional balloonist.
Father of balloonists, Eugene, Louis, Auguste, Eugenie, & Jules.
b: 1802;
d: 1873.
p: Stone mason; Founder of aeronautical family.
f: Made one recorded flight in his lifetime (at age 68). ***Epic flight 14 Oct.1870 (w/Quesneau, Keraty, & Jay) from Paris in "Godefroy-Cavaignac." The 4:30 flight during the Prussian Siege proved successful in spite of a crash landing after covering 125 miles into enemy territory. The flight was unique, in that the aeronaut was also successful in smuggling his balloon back into French territory.
GODARD, Eugene Pierre FRANCE (1827-1890) (HB/GB)
See APPENDIX-J/Q/S/T. Aeronaut extraordinaire.
b: 27 Aug.1827 Clichy (FRA);
d: 9 Nov.1890 Bruxelles (BEL); Most famous of a prolific B-Family (1847-1908): Son of Edme; Father of Eugeene-II; Brother of: Louis, Auguste, Eugenie, & Jules; Cousin of: Elsie, Amelie, Leontine, Adele & Fanny.
e: Self-educated, no formal schooling.
p: Architectural draftsman; Magician, Gymnast, Acrobat; Professional balloonist and parachutist; balloon parachute mfgr; Made 25 balloons for the French Government during the Prussian siege of Paris, 1870-71; Aeronautical instructor for the Belgian Military.
f: First HB-Flight Oct.1847 in "L'Aigle" (25000cf) from Lille; First GB-Flight 1849; Made 400th flight 5 Jul.1858; Made more than 500 flights in lifetime, in most all of Europe; Last flight 23 Sep.1900 with Jacques BALSAN to 8538 meters.
l: 1850, Made horseback flight in Ypres, France; 1851, Made 50 flights from the Paris Hipodrome; 1852, Made flights from Germany; 1853, Arrived in the USA with 5 balloons; 1852, Made flights from Austria; 1854, Made his first flight in the USA (other flights as far West as Iowa); 1855, Made horseback flight in Manchester, NH (4 July); 1855, Made 6 ascents from Havana & Matansas, Cuba; 1856, Made ascent from Montreal, Canada (8 Sep. 1856); 1858, Flew in a race against STEINER in the USA; 1859, Made his last flight in the USA (2 July); 1859, Flew a OB for French Army against Austrians in Milan; Served as Chief aeronaut in Italy; 1864, Flew (18,000 cuft.HB)"L'Aigle" from Cremore Gardens (ENG), FIRST to fly a Hot-Air Balloon in Britain (20 July); 1870, Made Paris siege flight; 1874, Flew in Belgium and Netherlands; 1875, Crossed the Pyrinees mountains (Bayonne to Pampelure); 1878, Seriously injured his knee on military training flight; 1884, Built and exhibited very large captive balloons; 1888; Crossed the Alps, Carpathian Mountains, & English Channel, Retired from balloon business, moved to Brussels Belgium.
m: Paris Academy of Arts & Sciences; Aero Club of France.
h: 1853, Silver Medal for Aerial Exhibition in New York City; Aeronaut for Napoleon III;. ***Epic flight 26 Oct.1855 (w/Belman, Crippen, Hoel, & Latham) from Cincinnati, OH. Hard landing dumped pilot and all passengers out of the basket. ***Epic flight 8 Dec.1875 (w/4-pax) in "Univers." Launched in a hail and snow storm, which soon turned to ice. The heavy balloon crashed, breaking his leg.
r: L'Illustration 15 Nov.1890 p418 (T).
GODARD, Pierre-Eugene-II FRANCE (1864?1920) (GB)
See APPENDIX-U.
b: 1864 Paris. Professional balloonist, Son of balloonist Eugene.
p: Professional balloonist 1880-1910 era.
f: First ascent 1870 (at age 6) with father; Second 28 Sep.1873 from Amens in "La Meteore." l: 1888, Made 1742 captive ascents (21000 pax) in Barcelona Spain; 1890, Installed captive balloon in Chicago USA; 1892, Made 25 captive ascents in Philippopoli Bulgaria; 1899, Made captive ascents in Cairo Egypt for British Army.
GODARD, Eugenie (F) FRANCE (1835-1910) (GB)
b: 1835;
d: 1910. Professional woman balloonist, Sister of Eugene P.
GODARD, Eva Louis (F) FRANCE (1860?1908) (GB)
Daughter?of Eugene P. (genealogy not verified).
p: Professional balloonist, 1889-1908 era; Made 22 ascents between 1889-1908.
GODARD, Marcel Andre FRANCE (1805-1867) (GB)
b: 1805;
d: 1867. Pseud:"FanFan"; Brother of Edme P.
p: Professional balloonist, 1826-36 era.
GODARD, Fanny FRANCE (1839-1880) (GB)
See APPENDIX-T. Professional woman balloonist, 1878-80 era.
b: 1839;
d: 1880. ***Epic first professional flight Sumer 1878 from Paris Tivoli Gardens. Performed in a sailors suit, creating a scandalous controversy of her time, as women were expected to wear skirts. ***Epic flight (her third) 14 July 1878 (w/Mr. Martin, her manager). Balloon was swept out over the North Sea. Both were rescued by passing boats; Fanny was standing on the passenger's shoulders as the basket slowly sank under them.
GODARD, Jules FRANCE (1838-1885) (GB)
Professional balloonist, 1856-66 era.
b: 1838 Batignolles;
d: 1885 Paris. Son of Edme P.
p: Usually in partnership with his brother Louis.
f: First B-Flight 1851 from the Paris Hippodrome. ***Epic flight 18 Oct. 1853 (w/NADAR, YON, +4 pax) from Paris in "Le Geant." All occupants injured on hard landing.
GODARD, Louis F. FRANCE (1829-1893) (OB/HB/GB)
See APPENDIX-J/N/T. Professional balloonist, Son of Edme P.
b: 1829;
d:?23 Mar.1893).
p: Served as OB for French Army against Austrians in Italy, 1859.
f: Student of H.GIFFORD and G.YON (his Godfather); Made 1360 ascents in his lifetime.
l: Founded "L'Ecolle du France" as a school of ballooning; Planned a Transatlantic flight for July 1902; Went mad in Amsterdam 3 Aug.1903; Placed under doctors care for nervous disorder; Released a few weeks later. ***Epic flight 1856 from Moscow for the coronation of Czar Alexander-III. ***Epic flight 29 Sep.1870 (w/Courtin) from Paris while under Prussian siege. Used makeshift rig of three small balloons tied together to carry himself, one passenger, 83 Kg. of mail, and 6 pigeons. Flight covered 49 Km. in 3 hours. ***Epic flight July 1878 (w/unnamed pax) from Paris. Passenger, who paid 1000f for the flight, went crazy and cut four of the six suspension ropes of the basket, to "experience emotions." Pilot released gas above his head, rendered him unconscious, and landed safely.
r: N.Y.Herald 24 Apr.1901; N.Y.Daily News 2 Dec.1903.
GODARD, Mutin Louis FRANCE (1858-1933) (GB)
See APPENDIX-N. Son of Louis F.; Adopted by Edme P.
p: Professional balloonist, 1870-1900 era; Balloon and airship builder.
l: 1906, Built the VANIMAN/WELLMAN airship (for N.Pole attempt).
GODDARD, Robert H. USA (1882-1945) (HB/GB)
See APPENDIX-S. Professional balloonist, 1900-10 era.
p: Co-Owned (w/Ed Jorgenson), Built, & flew all kinds of balloons; Factory & residence in Chicago, IL 1903; Professor of Science at Clark University; experimented with "Sonde-balloons."
l: Toured the Central USA.
r: S.Dakota History V18,#3,p .
GODET, Eugene FRANCE (1865?1920) (GB)
Prominent French aeronaut 1895-1905 era; Flew for C.MYERS in the USA in the Summer of 1903.
GODOY, Mario Justo ARGENTINA #:32 (1884-1971) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AV/CN. Military aeronaut.
b: 13 Jul.1884 Mendoza;
d: 5 May 1971 Buenos Aires.
s: Officer in the Argentine Air Force, Aviator; Dispatched to suppress the Indians in Formosa Province.
f: First B-Flight 30 Jun.1915 from Palermo in"Jorge Newbery"; Landed in Luan after a flight of six hours 5 minutes; His only recorded B-Flight; AAC B-License #32 issued 30 Jun.1915; Airplane #75 13 Apr.1915.
l: Cunning horseman and Polo player. ***Epic flight 20 Nov.1915 to 3000Mts.in an airplane that was not designed to exceed 2000Mts.
r: Argentine Aero Club.
GOLDSCHMIDT, Marie (F) FRANCE (1890?1930) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AH/CH. Sport balloonist. Wife of balloonist, Gustave.
f: First B-Flight 21 Mar.1913 (see RUMPLEMEYER) to Russia.
l: Aide in the 1913 G-Bennett B-Race; Friend of C.DOLFUS.
r: Aero Club Records; BuA p56.
GOLDSCHMIDT, Robert BELGIUM # 20 (1890?1930) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AH/AV. Professional Aeronaut. Husband of French balloonist, Marie.
e: Doctor of Natural Sciences.
p: balloonist, 1910, Airships 1914.
l: Author "Aeromobiles."
a: 54 Ave.de Arts, Brussels.
r: Aero Club Records.
GOLTZHEIM, Hans von Starch GERMANY (1880?1930) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AH/AT/CH. Military & Sport balloonist.
p: Sicon of a noble family.
f: Last recorded flight 1914; made about 10 flights in his lifetime.
l: Aide to ABERCRON in the G-Bennett B-Race from Berlin in 1908.
m: Dusseldorfer Flying Club. ***Epic flight from Zurich in 1909 flying as pilot for 702 Km.
r: FuA p56.
GOMEZ-Guillamon, Felix SPAIN (1901-1923) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AH/AV. Military balloonist.
b: 1901;
d:?1981.
s: Officer in the Spanish Army Air Force.
f: Received FAI-SAC B-License 1921; Airplane pilot.
l: Sport balloonist 1921-23 era. ***Epic flight 1921 from Melica Morocco. While making observations from a tethered balloon, a passing airplane, not seeing the cable, broke it. The balloon drifted out over the Mediteranean. He eventually jumped free, and was rescued by a ship. ***Epic flight 23 Sep.1921 (w/BAROA) from Brussels Belgium. Launched in the G-Bennett B-Race into an approaching thunderstorm, the balloon was struck by lightning, and descended in flames. Gomez jumped from the basket 100' above a swamp, and survived with two broken legs. BAROA died in the impact/fire.
GONTERMANN, Heinrich GERMANY (1895?1916) K (HP)
Known as the German "Balloon Buster" (see F.LUKE).
d: 29 Oct.1916 Siegen France.
s: Officer in the German Air Corps 1914-16; Airplane fighter pilot; Commander of "Jasta-15"; Rank of "Staffelfuhrer."
l: Credited with destroying 18 Kite balloons in WW-I combat; also 21 Allied airplanes. ***Epic flight 30 Oct.1916 in a Fokker D1 Tri-plane. During one of his acrobatic flight test maneuvers, the upper wing was seen to disintegrate. He crashed, and he died of his injuries.
r: The Balloonatics; Military History, Feb-90p73.
GONZALES-Albarracin, Alberto ARGENTINA #:33 (1885-1968) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AV/CN. Military aeronaut.
b: 6 Feb.1885 Cordoba Province.
d: 6 Jan.1968 Buenos Aires.
s: Officer in the Argentine Air Force; Aviation instructor.
f: First B-Flight 26 Jul.1915 from Belgrano in "Jorge Newbery"; Landed in Marcos Paz after a night flight of 6:20; AAC B-License #33 issued 26 Jul.1915; Made seven recorded B-Flights in lifetime; Airplane License #65 issued 7 Nov.1915. ***Epic flight 30 May 1919; established a S.American altitude record of 3680Mts.in a Quadron 6/3 biplane.
r: Argentine Aero Club.
GONZALES-Green, Jesus SPAIN (1938- (HB)
See APPENDIX-BO. Sport balloonist. (Bio-data unavailable).
b: 1938; Resident of Madrid.
p: Television journalist.
f: British B-License #106.
l: FIRST to cross the Mediterranean Sea by balloon; 1981, Participated in World Hot-Air B-Championships; 1983, Organized the Sevilla Montgolfier Meet; Flew over Nazca, and Machu Pichu, Peru; Author of several books; Was mistakenly accused of being a Cuban Mercenary, and was sentenced to death. ***Epic flight 16 Apr.1980 from Tarifa, Spain. Crossed The Rock of Gibraltar, and 50 miles of the Mediterranean Sea. He landed near Tangiers, Morocco in 2 hours 15 minutes. (see H.VAULX). ***Epic flight 9 Feb.1992 (w/T.FELIU) from Huelva (Canary Islands). See T.FELIU.
r: BM-Winter 1992p17.
GOODALE, Frank William USA #-64 (1886-1948) (KB/GB)
See APPENDIX-AN/AR. Professional aeronaut.
Resident of Norwalk, Ohio.
b: 21 Dec.1886, Bowling Green, OH;
d: 26 Aug.1948, St. Petersberg, FL.
p: Theater manager; 1907-08 Balloon & Airship pilot for R.KNABENSHUE Tours; 1909-10 Airship pilot for Strobel Airship Company; 1911-16 Barnstormer.
s: Officer in U.S. Army, 1917-19. Balloon instructor; Balloon & Parachute test pilot.
f: First B-Flight 1907 from Luna Park in Chicago; First B-Solo 25 May 1907; First Airship flight 12 Jul.1909 from New York City; First Night flight from New York City in 1910; First Airship flight over Puerto Rico 1911; FAI-ACA B-License #64 issued 13 Jun.1917; Airship #6.
l: 1911, Made first airship flight over Puerto Rico; 1917, Made a demonstration para-jump for Pres.Taft (Ft.Omaha), The FIRST parachute jump in the military service); 1919, Made (w/J.WUEST) a series of military altitude flights; Author of "Reminiscences of an Early Bird."
m: Early birds; American Legion; NAABCV. ***Epic flight Sep.1918 (w/4-students) from Ft.Omaha, NB. Flying a standard Army balloon, Flew four hours at altitudes to 5300', and landed at exactly the same launch point.
r: NT-18 Apr.1919/4/3; Rotarian Magazine 1933; NT-27 Aug.1948 (T); Who's Who of Aviation 1942-43.
GOODALL, Henry USA (1865?1920) (GB)
See APPENDIX-B. Sport balloonist.
Epic flight Sep.1892 from Jagersfontein (Orange Free State) in "Cloud Queen." Killed when his balloon hit the side of a hill.
r: Pioneers of Early Aviation in S.Africa.
GOODYEAR, Charles USA (1800-1860) (HP)
b: 29 Dec.1800 New Haven, CN;
d: 1 Jul.1860 New York City.
p: Pioneer inventor of "Vulcanizing" textile fabrics; Made millions of dollars for others, but was bankrupt at the time of his death.
l: Dropped a piece of India rubber on a hot stove in 1837; discovering the process of making rubber thin and strong, yet elastic.
GOOSSENS, ? BELGIUM (1880?1930) (GB)
Sport balloonist, 1900-10 era. ***Epic flight 13 Sep.1902 (w/nobleman) from Berlin. Entered violent thunderstorm soon after launch and had a terrifying ride. Flight crossed Germany, France, Belgium, and Holland in lightning and turbulence. Flew 1400 miles in 16 hours at speeds of 125 miles per hour, ending at Fretham France. Both aeronauts suffered broken bones, and the balloon was lost.
r: Daily Telegraph 14 Sep.1903.
GOSSAGE, Leslie; Lord ENGLAND (1900?1980) (HP)
See APPENDIX-J. Historic person.
s: Officer in the British Army, Chief of the British B-Command in WW-II; Commander of project "Outward" (20 Mar.1942 to 4 Sep.1944); Launched 99,142 balloons carrying bombs over the enemy lines at a cost of 220,000 pounds; started thousands of forest fires. ***Epic launch 12 Jul.1942 from Oldstairs (Dover). Balloon landed in a 110 Kv. powerline near Leipzig Germany, starting a fire in a generator that destroyed the powerhouse. The damage from that one balloon alone did 4 times the entire cost of the project.
r: The Moby Dick Project p52-7.
GOTZE, Carl Jr. GERMANY (1902-1972) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AH/AI/CH. Sport Balloonist.
b: 2 Mar.1902 Dusseldorf.
d: 17 May 1972 Dusseldorf.
f: First B-Flight 1 Jul.1928 with H.von ABERCRON; German B-License issued 27 Jan.1930; 139 lifetime flights; Last flight 17 May 1972 from Holland.
l: Balloonmeister 1929-34; Participated in G-Bennett B-Races 1930, 34, & 35.
h: Harmon Trophy-1936.
r: FuA p55.
GOUBAT, Raul Eugenie ARGENTINA #:14 (1886-1955) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AV/CN. Military aeronaut.
b: 3 Mar.1886 Buenos Aires;
d: 28 Aug.1955 Buenos Aires.
s: Officer in the Argentine Air Force; Aviator.
p: Land surveyor.
f: First B-Flight 20 Mar.1913 from Belgrano in "Hurracan." Landed in Monte Grande after two hours 30 minutes; AAC B-License #14 issued 20 Mar.1913; Airplane #16 23 Oct.1912; Made 15 B-Flights in his lifetime; Last B-Flight 28 Mar.1914.
l: FIRST Argentine pilot to receive an airplane License in country; Established an Argentine Airplane record of 371Km.in 3:30 (1914); Est.Argentine Airplane record of 1400Km.in 3 days (1914); Survived two major airplane crashes. ***Epic B-Flight 28 Mar.1914 in "Eduardo Newbery." Landed in Necochea after a flight of 600Km.in 17 hours 50 minutes.
r: Argentine Aero Club.
GOULDING, Albert E. USA #-1036 (1908-1981) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AR. Sport aeronaut.
b: 1908 England.
d: 23 Jul.1981 Akron, OH.
e: Goodyear Industrial University (took every course).
p: Joined Goodyear 1924, Plant manager for Goodyear Aerospace; Participated in the construction of airship Akron, and most Goodyear blimps; Ret,1971.
f: Balloon, Airship, Airplane, & Helicopter pilot; FAI-ACA B-License #1036 issued 30 Nov.1929.
l: Corporate Spirit Award; Litchfield Medal, 1931.
m: NLTAS.
r: BF-V27#3p9, -V30#3p8, -V31#6p3.
GOULSTON, James ENGLAND (1801-1852) K (GB)
See APPENDIX-B. Professional balloonist.
Stage name "Giuseppe Lunardini"; Father of balloonist.
b: 1801;
d: 2 June 1852 Manchester.
p: Oil cloth manufacturer.
f: made 51 ascents in lifetime. ***Epic flight 2 June 1852 from Manchester Cremore Gardens. Tangled in rigging after a hard landing in a strong wind. Was dragged until his body struck the side of a building. Died on impact.
GRABB, William USA (1928-1982) (HB/GB)
See APPENDIX-BD/BK/BI. Sport balloonist, Father of balloonist, David.
b: 10 July 1928, Rochester, Y;
d: 21 Mar.1982, Bahamas.
s: U.S.Air Force 1954-56, Res. Captain.
e: BS-Michigan State Univ.; MD-Univ.of Michigan.
p: Dr.of Medicine, reconstructive surgery; died of heart attack.
f: First B-Flight (solo) 28 July 1967 from Sioux Falls, SD; FAA B-License same date; More than 250 B-Hours in lifetime; First Gas B-Flight 1971 from St.Niklas, Belgium.
l: 1968, Took 3rd place at Indianapolis Speedway Race; 1969-73, Competitor at 7-UP B-Races; 1970-75, Participated in U.S.Nat. B-Races; 1971, Participated in St. Niklaas Gas B-Race; 1972, Organized first annual "Ann Arbor" B-Race; 1972, Participated in "Dolder Alpine Meet" in Switzerland; 1973, Participated in World Hot-Air B-Championships; 1977, Placed first in Michigan Championship; 1980, Participated in Winter Olympic Opening Ceremonies.
m: Balloon Federation of America, President & Vice Pres.
h: 1973, CIA Delegate to FAI in Paris. ***Epic flight Aug.1972 (solo) from Indianola, IA. Competing in the U.S.Nat. (HB) Championships, he saw power lines in his landing path. Realizing collision was inevitable, he stretched his legs out straight, and broke the wires with the rubber soles of his shoes. ***Epic flight 1978 (w/E&M KRAUER) from Aspen, CO. Gas B-Flight was aborted at the Continental Divide fishing camp after one hour.
r: Pers. interview; Wife interview-1983.
GRAHAM, James George ENGLAND (1800?1860) (GB)
See APPENDIX-A/C/X. Professional balloonist, Husband of Margaret.
Founder of an accident-prone family.
p: Professional balloonist, 1823-43.
f: First ascent (2nd try) 5 Aug. 1823 from Pentonville, England; Last recorded flight 16 June 1851, sustained serious injuries. ***Epic flight June 1838. Hit chimney on launch, bricks fell on a bystanders head and killed him. (See APPENDIX-B). ***Epic flight 1851 (w/Wife) from London. Balloon snagged a rooftop after launch and he fell from the basket, sustaining serious injuries.
GRAHAM, Margaret (F) ENGLAND (1804-1880) (GB)
See APPENDIX-A/X. Professional balloonist. Wife of James G.
Weighed 220 pounds by 1850.
b: 1804;
d: 1880; Died peacefully in bed of advanced age.
p: Professional balloonist, 1824-44.
f: First flight 2 June 1824 from London; Made her first night flight in 1850; Flight from Dublin 19 Aug.1853 was her 82nd; Thirty year B-Career eclipsed most aeronauts of her era.
l: Wrongly credited as first woman pilot to ascend with another woman, 21 Aug.1836. (see J.GARNERIN); Known in sporting circles for her boldness; 1850, Flew with her 3 daughters amid public outcry of danger. ***Epic flight 22 Aug. 1836 from London. Landing after an uneventful flight, her passenger stepped out of the basket prematurely. Margaret was thrown off balance and fell from "great height." She hovered between life & death for many months, but recovered. ***Epic inflation 14 Aug 1850 in London. Balloon caught fire on inflation, severely burning her.
GRANDE, Harry BRITAIN (1870?1930) (GB)
p: Professional balloonist. Stage name: Prof.Gaudron.
***Epic flight 5 Jun.1906 from Alexandra Palace (London). Balloon burst on ascent and landed in the crowd, breaking his fall. NOTE: He made a second, a successful flight, later that day.
r: Morning Leader 7 Jun.1906; The People 10 Jun.1906.
GRANT, Frederic J. USA #-95 (1895?1970) (KB/GB)
See APPENDIX-AN/AR. Military balloonist.
b: 13 Apr.1895 Zanesville, OH; res.of Zanesville.
e: Yale University-1917.
p: Black & Grant Company.
s: Officer in the U.S.Army B-Corps; Enlisted 11 Jun.1917; Chief B-Instructor, AEF B-School; Commander of 102nd B-Company.
f: FAI-ACA B-License #95 issued 29 Aug.1917.
r: The B-Section.
GRANT, Hugh Duncan ENGLAND (1870?1930) (HP/GB)
See APPENDIX-AS. Scientific balloonist.
p: Officer in Royal Navy. Sport balloonist, 1908-14; Scientific aeronaut, explorer, meteorologist, author.
m: Fellow of the Royal Meteorological Society; Fellow of the Geographical Society; Fellow of the Astronomical Society.
GRATIEN, M. FRANCE (1860?1900) (GB)
p: Professional balloonist. ***Epic flight 22 Aug.1883 (w/Ms.ALBERTINE, also an aeronaut) from Royan in "Vidouvillaise." Launched prematurely by the wind, the pilot's two fingers became entangled in a restraining line, and he was carried aloft. Ms. Albertine fainted immediately after launch, and stayed that way during the four-hour flight. On landing, the pilot was dragged for half a mile through thorn bushes before being rescued by peasants. The pilot never lost consciousness, though his body was torn to shreds. When the balloon was freed, Ms. Albertine again fainted, while it continued downwind for another mile.
r: NT 23 Aug.1883/5/1.
GRAVES, ? USA (1875?1930) (SM)
See APPENDIX-L/S. Professional balloonist 1896-99 era.
***Epic flight attempt 13 Jul.1896 from Coney Island. NY. A gust of wind on launch, pulled him against a chimney, and into burning charcoal. Balloon continued on without him. Second attempt the following day was successful.
GRAY, George Hawthorne USA (1889-1927) K (GB/SB)
See APPENDIX-B/C/AA/AH/AI. Military & Sport Aeronaut.
FIRST aeronaut into stratosphere; Son of a steamboat captain.
b: 16 Feb.1889, Pasco, WA;
d: 4 Nov.1927, Sparta, TN.
e: University of Idaho, 1913.
p: Professional Officer in U.S. Army; 1915, Enlisted as an infantry private for Mexican War; 1917, Commissioned Second Lt. (2 June), Army Air Service; Scientific balloonist, Did extensive research on high-altitude (Cosmic rays, atmospheric pressure, & humidity); 1927, Captain at time of death.
f: Graduated Ross Field B-School 1921; Airplane school 1923; Graduated Scott Field Airship School 1924; All known flights were made in open wicker baskets; Made 107 B-Flights in his lifetime.
l: 1926, Placed second in Gordon Bennett Race. ***Epic flight 4 May 1927 from Scott Field, IL. Flight reached 42,470' on attempt to set a new World altitude record. Flight covered 110 miles in one hour 32 min. Rapid descent caused Gray to parachute from 18,000' over Golden Gate, Illinois. NOTE: Parachuting from the balloon invalidated FAI record. ***Epic flight 4 Nov. 1927 from Scott Field, Il. Flight reached 44,000' before pilot died of anoxia (pressure loss), and landed gently near Sparta, TN. Fate attributed to a clock that froze, allowing him to exhaust his oxygen supply before reaching a safe altitude.
GREELY, Adolphis USA (1844?1890) (OB)
s: Officer in the U.S.Army 1863-93; Ret.Brig.General; Enlisted in Cavalry 3 Jul.1861, Observed B-Ascents at Fredericksburg; Joined Signal Corps 1863; Electrical & Communications; Established B-Service as part of Signal Corps in 1893; (T.S.LOWE was only a civilian contractor 1861-63); Sent GLASSFORD to study ballooning in France; Distinguished career all over the USA and Arctic.
l: Personal friend of General GAMBETTA of France.
GREEN, Charles ENGLAND (1785-1864) (GB)
See APPENDIX-A/C/H/P/X. Son of a poor London fruit dealer.
b: 31 Jan.1785 London;
d: 10 Feb.1864 (Tuffel Park) London; Father of balloonist, George; Husband of 2 ballooning wives; Brother of sport balloonists Henry, James, & William.
e: Little formal education, but superb self-taught mechanic.
p: Professional balloonist, 1821-40-era; Founded (w/G.SPENCER) balloon & parachute factory in 1838, Sold B-Equipment Worldwide;
f: First flight 19 Jul.1821 from London, using coal gas; Made more than 100 ascents by 1832, 200 by 1835, 500 lifetime; Last flight, his 500th, 13 Aug.1852; Last ascent 1870 (at age 85), his 500th.
l: Did commercial competitions with brothers George & Henry; First to use "coal-gas" for lift (1821); First to use a drag rope for ballast; Made 5 Cross-Channel attempts, 3-successful, 2 in the sea; Made only one flight using hydrogen (1832, his 98th flight). ***Epic flight 19 July 1821 (w/1-Pax) from Green Park, London. Basket ropes parted on landing, dragged occupants considerable distance before deflating on a tree. ***Epic flight 1823 (w/1-pax) from Cheltenham. Unknowingly, launched with the foot-ropes cut half through. When the ropes started to part, they climbed into the load-ring, just as the basket fell to the Earth. The balloon continued to 10,000' as the envelope started to break thru the net. It finally popped thru at 30' from the ground, but they sustained only minor injuries. ***Epic flight Sept. 1826 from Vauxhall Gardens in London to 15,000' at night, with two sons on board. ***Epic flight 24 Sep.1828 from N.Y.City. Balloon became impaled on a flagstaff and was destroyed. Pilot climbed down his drag rope. ***Epic flight 7 Nov. 1836 (w/MASON & HOLLAND) from Vauxhall Gardens in London in "Royal Vauxhall" (70,000CF). Flight covered a record distance (until 1907) of 480 miles, landing in Germany after 18 hours. ***Epic flight 24 July 1837. Dropped COCKING on his fatal parachute descent. Balloon shot-up to 23,000' when the 400 pounds were released.
GREEN, Mrs. Charles (F) ENGLAND (1790?1860) (GB)
See APPENDIX-A/X. First Wife of Charles. Professional balloonist, 1836-40 era.
GREEN, Darius ENGLAND (1810?1860) (GB)
See APPENDIX-X. Son of Charles. Professional balloonist, 1828-38 era.
GREEN, Geoffrey BRITAIN (1933- (HB)
See APPENDIX-F/BA/BF/BO. Sport balloonist.
b: 11 Sep.1933 Kendal ENG. FIRST to fly a balloon in Hong-Kong.
s: Royal Air Force. Resident of Hong Kong.
p: Airline pilot.
f: First B-Flight 10 Sep.1974 from Bristol with D.CAMERON; First B-Solo 5 Nov.1974 from Newbury, U.K.; CAA B-License 22 June 1979; Issued #1 Airship license for Hong Kong; More than 230 B-Flights by 1983.
l: Has flown balloons in : Australia-10 Nov.74;Bahrain-22 Nov.76; Brunei-12 Feb.74; England-5 Nov.74; France-14 Sep.74; Indonesia-26 Jul.75; Japan 26 Jan.75; Korea (S)-29 Jul.76; Malaysia-30 Jun.75; Philippines-16 Feb.75; Singapore-27 Dec.74; Hong Kong-21 Nov. 75; 1977, Est. an FAI altitude record for AX-6 class; 1978, Est. an FAI altitude record for AX-5 & 6 class; 1980, Est. an FAI distance record for AX-9 thru 15 class.
m: Hong Kong Balloon & Airship Club (FM), Pres. 1974-83.
h: FAI-Montgolfier Diploma; Royal Aero Club Silver & Bronze Medals. ***Epic flight 21 Nov.1975 from Hong Kong. First balloon flown there. ***Epic flight 25 Jul.1976 (w/R.TAAFFE). First B-Flight over Mt.Fuji. ***Epic flight 30 Sep.1980 from Northam to Zanthus Australia. FAI-Record of 419 miles.
r: Bio-Data form-1983.
GREEN, George (Jr.) ENGLAND (1825?1875) (GB)
See APPENDIX-A/X. Professional balloonist. Son of balloonist Charles.
p: Active 1845-55 era.
f: First flight 30 Mar.1826 with his father.
l: Made many flights using coal-gas.
GREEN, George (Sr.) ENGLAND (1795?1849) K (GB)
See APPENDIX-A/B/X. Professional balloonist. Brother of Charles.
p: Active 1826-49 era.
l: Made almost all flights using coal-gas. ***Epic flight 11 Jul. 1849 from Preston. Drowned off Cardiff.
GREEN, William USA (1874?1950) (HB/GB)
See APPENDIX-G. Sport Aeronaut. Name sometimes spelled: GREENE.
e: Univ.of California-Berkley, DDS-1900; San Francisco Coll.of Physicians, MD-1901.
p: Dentist, Airplane Barnstormer, mechanic/inventor.
s: Officer in the U.S.Army 1917-19.
f: Self taught aeronaut; Built & flew his own airplane in 1909; Built & flew first balloon 1902; No FAI-ACA B-License; Airplane pilot 1906.
l: Established many firsts in the history of airplanes.
m: Early Birds; F&AM; BPOE; Aero Society of America, Tres..
h: Leo STEVENS Trophy. ***Epic flight 1902 from Chipas Mexico. Flight was made in a self-built hot-air balloon made of canvas. ***Epic flight 1909 (w/STEVENS) from North Adams MA in "Pommerain." Flight of four hours was mostly over the Atlantic Ocean. A lower altitude changed their course to a landing Poland Springs, Canada.
r: Who's Who in Aviation 1942-43.
GREENE, Paul Adolphus USA #-398 (1896?1960) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AR. Military aeronaut.
b: 10 Jan.1896 Rogers, TX; Res.of Cincinatti, OH 1927.
s: Officer in the U.S.Navy 1917-18; Naval Aviator #612.
p: Radio inspector; Playing card salesman.
f: Balloon & Airship training at Akron & NAS-Pensacola; FAI-ACA B-License #398 issued 20 Feb. 1918.
r: Contact-Profiles p191.
GREENER, ? BRITAIN (1860?1920) (GB)
s: Officer in the British Army, Royal Engineers; Balloon instructor at Aldershot 1890-92 era.
GREENLEAF, Thomas USA (1750?1800) (HP)
p: Mechanic, Experimenter, Inventor, and Developer.
l: 1789, Launched unmanned hot-air balloon from N.Y.City (10 Aug); 1789, Publicly announced a manned flight on 23 Sep. from the grounds of Federal Hall in New York City. Congress adjourned to witness the flight, but balloon was consumed in the flames.
r: The Air Devils.
GREENLEAF, Thomas W. USA (1866-1936) (SM/GB)
See APPENDIX-S. Professional balloonist. Father of balloonists, Ruth & Florence.
b: 27 Jun.1866 Quincy, IL;
d: 16 Feb.1936 Chicago.
p: Circus tightrope walker; Prof. balloonist for T.S.BALDWIN; Stage name "Electric Flying Meteor."
f: Student of T.S.BALDWIN 1887; First B-Flight 4 Jul.1887; Part of Baldwin Brothers Balloon Troupe 1887-97; Made over 100 B-Jumps; Broke kneecap 1908 and retired.
r: Quincy Herald-Whig, 4 Sep.1949.
GRIESCHABER, Dieter GERMANY (1919- (GB)
See APPENDIX-BE/BF. Sport balloonist.
b: 6 May 1919 Nagold.
p: Engineer.
s: Served 8-years in German Army 1937-45.
f: First B-Flight 19 Feb.1966 w/R.REILICH; German B-License #126-BWIC issued 9 Apr.1969 by A.ECKERT; First B-Solo 20 Apr.1969 from Augsburg; More than 1513 B-Hours (262 gas & 348 hot-air starts) by 1985.
l: Made more than 31 Alps crossings, 20 at night.
m: Several German B-Clubs.
h: Montgolfier Diploma-1974; Lilienthal Gold Medal; Dosdlos Silver Medal; Brickwedde Silver Medal. ***Epic flight 1970 from Augsburg. Established a German National AA-7 altitude record of 6700 meters. ***Epic flight 1976 from Augsburg. Night flight landed in Chinon after covering 616 Km. in 12hr. 5min.
r: Bio-Data 1985; FuA p57.
GRIFFIN, ? USA (1880?1940) (SM)
See APPENDIX-L. Professional balloonist.
p: Student, and employee of Leo STEVENS. ***Epic flight 1 Oct.1905 (w/La STRANGE) from No.Bergen, NJ. Griffin won the event, which was a competition for $500 in prize money. Event was judged on gymnastic ability, time aloft, and deportment. (A.L.STEVENS was the Judge)
r: NT-2 Oct.1905/14/4.
GRIFFIN, Steve AUSTRALIA (1950? (GB/HB)
See APPENDIX-BF. Sport balloonist (Bio-data unknown)
h: Montgolfier Diploma 1994 for outstanding Gas B-Flight. ***Epic flight 1994 (details unknown) across Australia in a Rozier balloon.
r: BL-July 1994.
GRIFFIN, Walter Bancroft USA #-311 (1889-1949) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AR. Military aeronaut.
b: 15 Oct.1889 Charlestown, MA;
d: 23 Jul.1949 Plymouth, MA.
e: Mass.Institute of Technology-1927.
s: Officer in the U.S.Navy 1917-21 (Lt.); Military Aviator #311; Served on patrol duty at Hampton Roads, and Chatham ENG.
f: Balloon & Airship training at Akron & NAS-Pensacola; FAI-ACA B-License #311 issued 23 Jan.1918.
r: Contact-Profiles p170.
GRIMLEY, Charles H. USA (1850?1900) (GB)
See APPENDIX-L/S/CE. Professional balloonist. Immigrated from England 1870.
b: about 1850 Worchester; Resident of N.York City, & later Ottawa.
p: Merchants clerk; Professional balloonist, Vermont-1870.
f: Reportedly studied ballooning with W.SIMMONS in England; First recorded American flight 1875; Made 41 ascents by 1878 Canadian tour.
l: Made many disastrous flights in lifetime; 1875, Nearly drowned in Hackensack (NJ) River (Sep.); 1875, Fell 40' to ground in Pittsburgh, PA (Oct.). 1878-79, Toured Canada with four ascents; 1878, Exhibited a fan driven airship at Montreal (unflown); 1879, First attempt to propel airship in flight (unsuccessfully).
r: AIAA box-217&8; NY Herald Jun.1879; Montreal Witness Jul.1879; A.Brookes Archives: Ottawa Daily Citizen 3 Jul.1877, 28 Aug.1877p1; Montreal Gazette 30 Sep.1878, 23 Jun.1879.
GROFF, Vincent de BELGIUM (1850?1874) K (GB)
See APPENDIX-B. Sport balloonist.
p: Shoe maker in Brugge. Stage name: "Flying Man."
l: Aviation inventor; Built many HTA aircraft 1864-74 in Paris.
m: Societe d'Aviation. ***Epic flight 9 Jul.1874 (see SIMMONS) from London. Ascended above Cremore Gardens (London), suspended on a kite like glider. The wings broke on its release from the balloon, he died of a fractured skull in a Chelsea street. (see W.SIMMONS)
GROOM, Pelham ENGLAND (1910?1970) (KB)
s: Officer the Royal Air Force Balloon Observation Corps. ***Epic flight 12 Jun.1930 (w/Robinson) from Aldershot. Kite balloon was being retrieved when the cable broke. The aeronauts drifted 15 miles before attempting a landing. Both attempted to jump out at touch-down, but Groom's leg caught on the basket work, holding him upside-down for another two miles.
r: NT-13 Jun.1930/3/5.
GROSS, Hans GERMANY (1860?1920) (GB)
See APPENDIX-U/T/AU. Military balloonist.
b: 1860 Meseritz.
e: Meteorological Institute of Berlin.
f: Made 165 flights in his lifetime.
s: Officer in the German Army Balloon Corps.
m: Berlin Aeronautical Society; Aerostatique Society of Templehof (FM)-1886. ***Epic flight Feb.1893 from Charlot-tenburg in "Humbolt." Balloon grazed the lightning rods on the top of a steel mill, shortly after take-off. It did not explode, but the flight continued on to a safe landing on the other side of the town, due wholly to the skill of the pilot. NOTE: The "Humbolt," belonging to the German Navigation Society, made only 3-flights, all ending in accidents.
r: l'Aerophile-1900.
GROSS-Meyer, Rolf SWITZERLAND #+131 (1921-1994) (GB)
See APPENDIX-BE/BJ/BM/CJ. Sport balloonist 1964-19 .
b: 21 Oct.1921 Basle.
d: 27 May 1994 Basle.
e: Univ.of Basle, PHD-Chem.Engineering.
s: Swiss Air Force Meteorologist.
p: Chemist, Ret.1981.
f: First B-Flight 1964 with Ernst ISELIN; First B-Solo 1966 from Burgundy France; FIE B-License #131 issued 22 Sep.1966; FIE-Designated Gas B-Instructor; More than 1000 hours, 190 starts (all Gas balloons) by 1985.
l: Made 27 Alpine flights (20 crossings) by 1985; 1983,84, Pilot in G-Bennett B-Races.
r: June-85 interview; FreeBallon Sport Jun/Jul.94 p26 (T); BuA p57.
GROSS, Thomas J. USA (1930? (HP)
See APPENDIX-BS.
p: High-Altitude Balloon Program Manager; In charge of scientific launches in Australia, 1968-72; Made over 600 launchings for "Project-Hibal" by mid-1972.
GROSSMAN, (Ms.) (F) USA (1870?1892) K (SM?GB)
See APPENDIX-B. Sport balloonist.
f: Amateur balloonist, type of balloon was not indicated.
l: Reported as an American Citizen, but no record of USA flights. ***Epic flight 13 Jun.1892 from Berlin. Balloon rose normally to about 500'. When she was ready to jump, the balloon became unstable, and she was thrown out of the basket. She fell into a lake, and died of her injuries.
r: NT-14 Jun.1892/8/3.
GROVER, George E. ENGLAND (1850?1900) (OB)
See APPENDIX-X. Military balloonist.
s: Officer in British Army, 1860-90 era; Served as official military observer in the American Civil War; Accompanied T.S.LOWE and the Balloon Corps 1861 & 62; No record of going aloft during this period; Went to Egypt 1886 (as Major) as balloon observer, But war was over before his arrival.
f: Experimented with captive balloons, 1862-86; Only recorded free flight (w/COXWELL), 1863.
l: Did extensive reporting of advantages of balloon observations (see H.BEAUMONT); Author of "Military Ballooning" (EB-12).
GRUBER, Paul GERMANY (1883?1930) (GB/KB)
See APPENDIX-AU. Military balloonist.
b: 2 Jul.1883.
m: Posener Balloon Club.
s: Officer the German Army Balloon Observation Corps, Oberlt. Grenider in Regiment-6.
f: German B-License issued 10 Mar.1909. ***Epic flight 30 Apr.1909 from Berlin. Tethered balloon broke loose in a strong wind. It caught fire from static electricity over the city, and crashed. The pilot survived with minor burns.
r: NT-1 May 1909/4/4; FuA p58.
GRUBB, Alexander Henry Watkins BRITAIN #*10 (1873-1933) (GB)
See APPENDIX-J/AG/AS. Military balloonist.
b: 18 Apr.1873;
d: 9 Jan.1933 Maidstoone.
e: Wellington College; Royal Military Academy, Woolrich.
s: Officer in British Army Royal Engineers 1892-1927; Balloon Section, Aldershot 1894-99, 1922-23; Served as balloonist So.Africa 1899-1904; France 1916-19.
f: FAI-British balloon license 10 issued 5 May 1908.
l: Participated in Hurlingham meet 30 May 1908.
h: CMG-1918; DSO-1902; Queens Medal (w/2-clasps); Legion of Honor; Greek Order of Redeemer.
GRUET, Joseph W. USA (1850?1874) K (SM/GB)
See APPENDIX-B/G/L/S. Professional balloonist 1868-1874.
Resident of San Francisco, CA. Came from show-business family of French origin. Stage names: Etienne Buislay, & Gruet Buislay. Name spelled "Albisu Busley" in Mexican 1869 tour.
p: Acrobat, Gymnast, Actor, Pantomime artist; Balloonist for Woodwards Garden (S.F.) 1873-74.
f: First recorded smoke B-Flight 3 Oct.1865; First recorded gas flight 1868 from San Francisco, CA; Student of James K. ALLEN; Partners with "Miss STACY" 1873.
l: Made ascents in Mexico, Spain, and France. ***Epic flight late Aug.1873 from San Francisco, CA. Balloon was launched prematurely in a strong wind, and grazed a telegraph pole. It continued to rise with a long rip in the fabric, but the intrepid aeronaut continued his acrobatic act. The balloon grazed another pole before landing in the mud flats, but the pilot received no injuries. ***Epic flight 11 Oct.1874 from San Francisco, CA. Balloon was launched prematurely in a strong wind, and the pilot became entangled in the parachute lines. He finally crashed onto rocks, and died later of his injuries.
r: Alta California 19, 21 Jul.1873; Grizzly Bear Jan.1923/8/3.
GUERRERO, Samuel COLUMBIA (1900?1929) (GB)
See APPENDIX-w/B. Professional balloonist.
d: July 1929, Medellin; Resident of Bogata.
f: Made many free flights in Columbia; Early flight history unk. ***Epic flight July 1929 from Medellin in a gas balloon. Envelope slipped from the net, and the pilot fell with the basket from a great height." NOTE: flight was a second hand narration, as told by the mother (who witnessed the tragedy) of G.Arango.
r: Gustavo Arango interview, Miami, FL-1989.
GUGLIELMINETTI, Ernest FRANCE (1862?1930) (GB)
See APPENDIX-U/AH. Scientific Balloonist 1891-1904 era.
b: 24 Nov.1862 Brigue Switzerland.
p: Doctor of Medicine.
s: Doctor in charge of Military Aerostiers 1891.
l: Did physiological studies of altitude effects on pilots 1892; Determined effects of rarefied air, and requirements for survival at high altitudes by 1900.
m: Aero Club of France; Biological Society; Academy of Medecine.
GUILLAMON, Gomez SPAIN (1888?1940) (GB)
See APPENDIX-AH/ (B). Sport Balloonist, 1920-23 era.
***Epic flight 23 Sep.1923 (w/PENARANDA-Baora) in the G-Bennett B-Race. Survived in-flight lightning strike by jumping from the basket to avoid flames, 100' before impact into a swamp. Passenger died, but Gomez ony broke both legs.
GUILLAUMIN, Xavier FRANCE (1860?1896) K (GB)
See APPENDIX-B. Professional balloonist 1896 era.
f: Student of G.BESANCON (l'Ecole Francaise Navigation Aerienne). ***Epic flight 26 Jun.1896 (w/Lelope, also a B-Pilot) from Paris in "l'Explorateur Celeste." One of three balloons launched into an approaching thunderstorm. Balloon made a terminal velocity descent, and Xavier was killed. NOTE: Second balloon "Pioneer" piloted by G.CASS, crashed into trees and passenger Bourgue fell out and died on impact. Third balloon "Jupiter" piloted by BOITEUX, (w/Foucart, LeGrand, & Crepillon) also crashed; all survived with serious injuries. The fourth balloon, "Argus" piloted by DELAGRADE, launched last and had an uneventful flight
r: l'Aerophile Jun.1896 V4 p167-9 (T).
GUILLE, Louis Charles USA (1800?1850) (GB)
See APPENDIX-C/S. Professional balloonist 1819 era.
b: 1800 France; Immigrated to the USA 1819.
f: Made successful flights in New York, Baltimore, and Cincinnati in 1819; FIRST to use a parachute in the USA.
l: Was sued for crop damages caused by a curious crowd after landing his balloon; Resulted in a classic ruling that: Pilots are liable for ALL damages (SWAIN vs.Guille, New York 1822). ***Epic flight 2 Aug. 1819 From New York City. Launched at Vauxhall Gardens in a strong wind, he delayed his parachute opening until he was 4 miles downwind. He landed safely at Great Neck after his parachute failed to open for the first 300 feet. ***Epic flight attempt 8 Sep. 1818 from Philadelphia (PA). Crowd destroyed his balloon after numerous launch delays. ***Epic flight 20 Nov. 1819 from Jersey City (NJ). Made his second successful USA parachute demonstration.
r: BM-S/O 1985 p6.
GUILLOT, Rene ITALY (1800?1850) (GB)
See APPENDIX-L/S/Q. (Bio-data incomplete)
p: Member of the Italian Parliament.
f: Early flight history unknown; Made his 55th flight 25 March.1847; Flew mostly from Naples and Rome; Made one ascent in the USA in 1845 (location unknown).
r: L'Aeronautica Italia.
GUPTA, Vishwa Bandhu INDIA (1928- (HB)
Sport Balloonist (Bio-data unavailable)
p: Journalist, Entrepreneur, Aviation promoter; Member of Parliament.
f: First Gas B-Flight 1970 with J. BOESMAN; Fabricated and flew the first Indian-made balloon Jan.1973; Received his formal B-Training from W.BERRY at Corning, CA 1969 (?); FIRST licensed Indian B-Pilot. l: FAI-CIA Indian Delegate since 197?. NOTE: W.BERRY brought the first modern thermal balloon to India and flew it 30 Nov.1975. He later donated it to the Indian Balloon Club.
r: Mrs.B.Berry archives.
GUSMAO, Bartolomeu de BRAZIL (1685-1724) (HP)
See APPENDIX-C/H. Known in Brazil as the "Precursor of Aviation."
b: 1685 Santos.
d: 18 Nov.1724 (age 39) Toledo, Spain.
p: Jesuit Priest, Missionary explorer and historian.
l: Discovered the Andes Indians using toy hot-air balloons. He reported his discovery to his superiors, who reported the incident to the Portuguese Court. On 8 Aug.1709, Gusmao demonstrated a model using charcoal suspended in a dish below a textile balloon envelope, before King Jao-V (at Casa de India, Terreiro do Paco, Portugal). Unfortunately, the demonstrations (he made two others) were also watched by members of the Inquisition, and he died in Spanish exile.
h: Three Brazilian postage stamps have been published in his honor by 1995.
r: Original records are at the University of Coimbra, Portugal.
GUY, George H. USA (1880?1930) (GB)
Professional balloonist early 1900's (Bio-data unknown).
GYPSON, Richard ENGLAND (1811-1853) (GB)
See APPENDIX-A/C/X. Professional balloonist.
p: Worked for Vauxhall Gardens (near Birmingham) 1839-49 era.
f: First recorded flight 14 May 1832 from London; FIRST pilot to successfully use an adjustable gas-valve; Made his last recorded flight (#100) Oct.1849; Retired to writing his memoirs.
l: Last recorded appearance (before a judge) as accused of stealing pewter pots; Died in poverty shortly thereafter. *** Epic flight (as pilot) 1841 over Lympre (Kent). Dropped the FIRST recorded airmail in England (See J.BLANCHARD). ***Epic flight (as pilot) 6 Jul.1847 (w/COXWELL & Smith) from Vauxhall Gardens at night, with a fireworks display. The balloon burst in a thunderstorm, but the envelope inverted in the net and acted as a parachute. ***Epic flight Oct.1879 (w/Smith) from Bedford. The flight encountered sleet that froze the flap-valve. The descent, made by cutting a hole in the side, ended at Oxfordshire after covering 59 miles.
r: Early Aviation in Ireland p25
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