Glenn Curtiss: Pioneer of Flight

by Cecil R. Roseberry

Glenn Curtiss (1878–1930) was a self-taught aeronautical engineer, a self-­made industrialist, and one of the first airplane pilots, the model for “Tom Swift.” C. R. Roseberry’s biography begins with Curtiss’s years in Hammondsport, New York, his experiments with designing and learning to fly his own airplanes, and his many “firsts” in aviation history. Establishing one of the first aviation schools, Curtiss also developed a highly successful aviation company and designed one of the most popular early American planes—the Curtiss JN-4 (the “Jenny”). More than just a biography, this is also a well-documented history of the development of aviation and the key figures associated with it during the first three crucial decades of this century. Through an examination of Curtiss’s dealings with people such as Alexander Graham Bell, his original partner, and Wilbur and Orville Wright, his most important rivals, Roseberry provides insight into the overall development of flight in America. Aviation enthusiasts, historians, those interested in American technology and industry, and all who enjoy a good story will welcome this book.

Genres: History, Biography, Nonfiction

514 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1991

Reviews

[Mel Foster · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sympathetic biography of a neglected pioneer of aviation and engines. The bigger victory of the Wright Brothers is not their court patent victory. It is the fact that the average school history text concedes a paragraph or two to the Wright brothers in recounting the history of aviation, and gives none to Glenn Curtiss. Fill that hole in your education with this book.
I think what I enjoyed most was the description of Curtiss as congenital inventor and tinkerer. Even on the way to the hospital for an appendectomy he was discussing plans with his son for a new type of ambulance for more comfortable transport. What a beautiful sense of curiosity!

[Walter D · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book about a man that has been somehow lost to history

[Robert White · Rating 5 out of 5]

The most complete and thorough study of Glenn Curtiss' life and contributions to the pioneer era of aviation. Well written and exceptionally well documented. Thorough and very detailed yet not ponderously weighed down by all the critical data necessary to understand the accomplishments and impact of this aviation pioneer. A must-read for anyone trying to understand the early years and efforts of pioneer aviators. Superb references, photos, documentation, and bibliography.

[KennyO · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this in the same month I read The Bishop's Boys about the Wright Brothers. Both are excellent, both cut through the triteness and B.S. that surrounds the stories of these men and both bio's are enlightening. Far less is heard in the popular press and in schools of Glenn Curtiss than of the Wrights even though Curtiss accomplished so much more over time. Roseberry sets that to rights. His writing style is easy and pleasant to read but the attention to technology may put off some readers. He illustrates nicely connections and correspondence among the various inventors and scientists who explored early flight. His is a voice of authority and he's clearly done his homework.