WWI Photo of American airman arriving at Luxeuil, France.
n.d. 1916. Photography. Two silvertone photographs of WWI pilots and aircraft. A group of 9 men in different uniforms with Captain Georges Thenault standing at center, with 3 dogs at their feet. Thenault was the commander of the Lafayette Escadrille - the famed branch of the French air force in World War I composed of American volunteer pilots. The Lafayette Escadrille was created before the United States gave up its neutrality, and joined France and Britain in the war against Germany. Once the United States formally entered the war, the Lafayette Escadrille was absorbed into the U.S. Army.
This image was published, and has extensive notes on the vero in pencil: "On our arrival at Luxeuil we were met by Captain Thenault. Left to right - Victor Chapman, Elliot Cowder, Bert Hall, William Thaw, Capt. Thenault, Lt. de Laage, Norman (G)Prince, Kiffin Rockwell, James Mc Connell." Other pencil notes from the photographer to the printer, '"A" mount on same plate as B & C," "Engraver be sure not to leave this man's arm out." "Flying for France". 6 3/4 x 4 5/8", 3 corners chipped, crack in upper right quandrant, closed tear on right border.
Second photo is of a biplane, notation on verso is "Faman, Buffalo" or possibly intended as 'Farman' referring to the British-French aviator and aircraft designer/manufacturer. The biplane appears similar to the Farman MF 11 "'Shorthorn". Image printed on 7 x 5" card, with pinhole at bottom center where it was affixed to a bulletin board. Good + overall. Item #28089
Price: $100.00