PBA Galleries

18, [6] pp. (including wrappers). Illustrated with 2 page map at center of the route around the world, photographs, and advertisements. 28x21.5 cm (11x8½") illustrated wrappers.

Charles B.D. Collyer was a former barnstormer (Liberty Flyers) and airmail pilot. From June 28th to July 22nd, 1928 Collyer, with H. Mears and a terrier named Tail Wind (as passengers), flew round the world from New York and back in 23 days, 15 hours, and 21 minutes to establish an FAI record. Their circumnavigation was completed faster than a lunar cycle, and one newspaper dubbed it a "race with the moon." Later that year, Collyer and Harry Tucker attempted to set the West-East speed record with the same airplane, but crashed shortly after takeoff in Arizona. Both men died. Includes a leaf from The New York Times, Monday, November 5, 1928, reporting "Collyer and Tucker Killed when Speeding Plane hits Canyon Wall in Arizona." Leaf is yellowed with a few tiny holes and tears. Titled within: "The Fairchild Aerogram." The narrative begins with the preliminary preparation for the Collyer and Tucker flight around the world, then detail the flight and their stops along the way. Rare booklet, only 4 copies located by OCLC / Worldcat.