James Lee Simmons began designing, experimenting, and making propellers first at his Washington Aeroplane Company factory located on Water Street in the southwestern area of the district during the 1909-1910 period. By 1913, when this propeller was manufactured, the company also manufactured a line of "Columbia" monoplanes, biplanes, and flying boats based on European and American designs.
Like other early aircraft manufacturers, Simmons also fabricated Wright-type propellers for $100 (closer to $2,000 in modern currency) a pair, as well as variations of Chauviére and other French designers in two-, three-, and four-blade configurations.
Display Status
This object is on display in Early Flight at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.
Object Details
Date
1913
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Propellers & Impellers
Manufacturer
Simmons Co.
Physical Description
Wood propellor with metallic coating on the outer 2/3 of the blades. Sheet metal wrapped around edges of blade tips.
Type: Two-Blade, Fixed-Pitch, Wood
Diameter: 238.8 cm (94 in.)
Chord: 26.7 cm (10.5 in.)
Engine Application: Unknown
Dimensions
Rotor/Propeller: 238.8 x 26.7 x 15.2 x 10.5 x 1 x 3.8cm (94 x 10 1/2 x 6 x 4 1/8 x 3/8 x 1 1/2 in.)
Materials
Wood
Non-Magnetic Metal
Copper Alloy
Fabric
Varnish
Metallic Coating
Inventory Number
A19340026000
Credit Line
Gift of Frederick Strobel Jr., Washington, D.C
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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