Description
Commander Henry James White (1892-1962) was a naval aviator, linguist, translator, inventor, flight instructor and Commander
of Naval Air Station Ream Field.
Background
He was born on October 7, 1892 in Catonsville, MD. He was educated at St. George’s school in Newport, RI. Appointed to the
Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD, he qualified as a pilot at just 19 years of age. His earliest license was signed by Orville
Wright. He served in the Navy from 1916 to 1920 and again from 1940 to 1945. He was also a United States Naval seaplane pilot.
He instructed the famed Charles Lindbergh in seaplane operations. He was the test pilot for Sikorsky’s giant amphibian which
weighed about 9,000 pounds. He set an unofficial altitude record with passenger load when he flew to a height of 18,500 feet
with nine people on board. He was also the test pilot for the self-landing plane, which was a success in his demonstrations
to the public.
Extent
0.58 Cubic Feet
13” x 15.5 x 5"
Restrictions
Some copyright may be reserved. Consult with the library director for more information.
Availability
The collection is open to researchers by appointment.