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This collection consists of a scrapbook chronicling the Simmons Propeller Company and Washington Aeroplane Company.
James Lee Simmons began designing, experimenting, and making propellers at his Washington Aeroplane Company factory (which was sponsored by Emile Berliner) located on Water Street in the southwestern area of the District during the 1909–1910 period. Like other early aircraft manufacturers, Simmons also fabricated Wright-type propellers, as well as variations of Chauvière and other French designers. By 1913, the company was manufacturing a line of Columbia monoplanes, biplanes, and flying boats based on European and American designs. By 1915 the company switched back to concentrating on the design and construction of propellers. After World War I, Simmons worked for Emile Berliner in the construction of his helicopters.
NASM.XXXX.1203
Simmons, James L.
1897 - 1930s
bulk 1912 - 1917
Henry A. Berliner, Gift, 1953, NASM.XXXX.1203
0.35 Cubic feet (One flat box.)
National Air and Space Museum Archives
This collection consists of a scrapbook chronicling the Simmons Propeller Company and Washington Aeroplane Company. The following types of material are included: Simmons' patents on a variety of products (1897–1918); photographs and correspondence of early aviators who used his products, such as Rexford Smith, and Antony Jannus; newspaper and magazine articles; sketches; and company ephemera, such as advertisements and business cards.
No arrangement, just one item.
Material is subject to Smithsonian Terms of Use. Should you wish to use NASM material in any medium, please submit an Application for Permission to Reproduce NASM Material, available at Permissions Requests.
No restrictions on access
James L. Simmons Scrapbook, NASM.XXXX.1203, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution.
Aeronautics
Propellers, Aerial -- Design and construction
Aircraft industry
Aeronautics -- Patents
Collection descriptions
Archival materials
Scrapbooks