Glenn Hammond Curtiss came to be known as "The Father of Naval Aviation" and "Founder of the American Aircraft Industry". He was a remarkable engineer, beginning his career as a successful motorcycle manufacturer. Curtiss was a fierce competitor, entering and winning many races and keeping up with competition from firms such as Harley Davidson and Indian. On Labor Day in 1902 Curtiss entered his first gasoline-powered race, sponsored by the New York Motorcycle Club in Brooklyn. He was awarded the C. F. Splidorf Cup for the First Annual Road Race.
Display Status
This object is on display in Nation of Speed at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.
Object Details
Date
1902
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
AWARDS-Trophies
Physical Description
This trophy is a cup with a triangular shape, having a wide round base and tapering inward at the top. There are three evenly spaced handles connected to the body of the cup. Engraved text: New York Cycle Club, First Annual Road Race C.F. Splidorf Cup, Won by G.H. Curtiss Labor Day 1902. On bottom: 310.
Dimensions
3-D (Overall): 19 × 14 × 19cm (7 1/2 × 5 1/2 × 7 1/2 in.)
Materials
Tin Alloy (Pewter)
Glass
Inventory Number
A19730598000
Credit Line
Bequest of the Estate of Glenn H. Curtiss
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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