Davis, David Richard, Papers, ca. 1934-1945

Collection context

Summary

Creators:
David Richard Davis
Abstract:
Davis was closely associated with aircraft development through the early part of the 20th century. He, together with Donald Douglas, formed the Davis Douglas Aircraft Company (much later to become McDonnell-Douglas), and formulated and built the Cloudster, the first plane to use thick wings and carry a supply heavier than its own weight. Later he was associated with the Bendix Aviation Corporation in charge of variable pitch propeller development. Davis died April 15, 1972, at age 78.
Extent:
1.5 linear ft.
Language:
English.

Background

Scope and content:

Included are Davis's original papers and photographs for the innovative airfoil he theorized, designed, uniquely tested and finally patented. Known as the Davis Wing, it bettered performance by 20% and was used by Consolidated in production of their PBY-5 Catalina and Liberator B-24's - outstanding long-range bombers during WW II.

Acquisition information:
Transferred from the Guggenheim Space Sciences Library (Aernautics and Astronautics Library), Stanford University.

Access and use

Location of this collection:
Department of Special Collections, Green Library
557 Escondido Mall
Stanford, CA 94305-6004, US
Contact:
(650) 725-1022