Early Aviation Photographs

Black and white images of early airplanes and aviation scenes, including a Lepere plane and various aircraft types, depicting the beginnings of flight.

This photograph, numbered 111-SC-1393, features an airplane during World War One. The photographer, RDCD, captured the image, which depicts an unidentified airplane in flight. Additional details and annotations are mentioned in the notes associated with this image.

Photograph of a Lepere plane taken by D.M.A. photographer. The airplane type is identified as a Lapere plane.

This is a black and white image taken in 1919 of different types of airplanes in Washington, D.C. during World War One. The photograph is labeled with the file number 111-SC-27795 and the photographer received it in 1919. The image shows various airplanes, but no additional descriptive information is available. The photo carries the symbol AU- and includes the note 827716.

German steam locomotive, type 0-4-0, manufactured by Orenstein and Keppel. The locomotive is located in Abainville, Meuse, France. The photo was taken by CPL. W.J. Beach and is dated 3-1-19. Date of the locomotive production is between 1904-1919.

Double wreck at Taliaferro Field in Hicks, Texas on April 26, 1918. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The photograph was taken by Sunder A. on May 23, 1918, and received from the commanding officer.

Photograph shows a close-up view of the Ackerman wheels on a JH-4C airplane at the Aviation Experiment Station in Hampton, VA. The image was taken on July 14, 1917. This photograph is for official use only and has a reference number of 83613.

Transcontinental motor truck convoy descending Laurel Hill grade between Bedford and Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. This convoy was part of the Transcontinental Motor Truck Expedition, which aimed to test the feasibility of long-distance transportation by trucks for military purposes. The photograph was taken on July 9, 1919, by Lieutenant Jackson S.C.

The photograph captures a De Havilland 4 observation British airplane, which was also used for day bombing purposes during World War One. This particular model, designated as Sumber A, was later manufactured in the United States. The image is part of the official Signal Corps-U.S.A collection.

This photograph, numbered 111-SC-1393, features an airplane during World War One. The photographer, RDCD, captured the image, which depicts an unidentified airplane in flight. Additional details and annotations are mentioned in the notes associated with this image.

Chanute Field, Rantoul, Ill. The motor on a plane went dead, causing it to make an emergency landing in windy conditions. Unfortunately, the wind got under the tail of the machine and turned it over. This photograph was taken at Chanute Field in December 1918 and is not for publication. It is designated for official use only.

The photograph captures a Pomilio aircraft in a 3/4 rear view at the 54387 Aviation Experiment Station in Hampton, Virginia. The image was taken on January 15, 1919, and includes the photographer's notes.

JN 4 B plane with a 90 hp Curtiss Ox 5-motor flies alongside two JN 4A planes at Hazelhurst Field, Mineola, L.I. The JN 4 B is used for elementary training, while the JN 4A planes are also Curtiss machines. Photo taken on July 19, 1918, as part of the American military activities during World War One.

A photograph of different types of airplanes, taken in Washington, D.C. in 1919 by photographer Seco. This image captures the diversity of aircraft used during World War I. However, no further details or notes are provided.

Caption: Trucks of 23rd Engineers passing along road enroute to Belvoir from New York. The photo, taken on February 26, 1918, shows a motor truck train consisting of 60 Mack trucks, three officers, and 104 men. It was taken on the Lincoln Highway between Newark and Perth Amboy, New Jersey. Released by the War College Division on March 7, 1918.

Second D.H.4 No. 22805 aircraft landing at Acceptance Park in Detroit, Michigan on February 7, 1919, returning from Selfridge Field. It was photographed by D.M.A. Photographer 54319 as part of the documentation process.

A photograph of a 260 horse power Salmson aeroplane in Warfvillers, France. The plane is equipped with three Lewis machine guns and has the capacity to carry two passengers. Taken on May 25, 1918 by Pvt.E. R. Trabold. Issued by the A. E. F. Censor on June 24, 1918.

Motor convoy encountering a dangerous crossing halfway between Pittsburg and Edgewater, Pennsylvania en route to San Francisco, California. The photograph portrays the hazardous conditions faced by the convoy during their journey. Recorded on 19th July 1919 by photographer Sot Lacey.

Rear view of a Heinrich plane at the Aviation Experiment Station in Hampton, Virginia. The photograph was taken on February 1, 1917. Notes reference the photograph as 8369.

S.S. Sixaola sinking at Hoboken, as seen from a tugboat. The photograph captures the starboard side of the vessel during its final moments. The image is part of the Photographs of American Military Activities collection taken during World War One.

This photograph taken in 1919 shows a light rolling stock of the M. & S. Railway with the identification number 53643. It was used during World War One and features the CCC symbol and AU notes. The photograph is part of a collection showcasing American military activities during that time.

A photograph taken by Lt. G. E. Stone on January 1, 1919 shows a wrecked Ford vehicle near Osburg, Germany. This image is part of the 111-SC series and was issued with the number 00 on December 4, 1918. Additional notes suggest that the vehicle in the picture is numbered 42222 ARK.

The image shows a field kitchen of the Motor Transport Corps during their departure on a Trans-Continental tour. The photo was taken on July 6, 1919, by Sgt. Hitz, S.C. The field kitchen was a part of the Trans-Continental train numbered 60625.

West Point Class 1921 on tour through Italy. Trucks waiting at station at Naples, Italy, for the arrival of the class. This photo was taken on December 1, 1919, by renowned photographer NEC. The trucks pictured were issued to the class and symbolize their transportation during their tour.

The image shows the USS Orizaba departing from Hoboken, New Jersey, during World War I. The ship is seen leaving the slip and descending down the North River. The photograph was taken by photographer Seco and issued with the description and number 29,335 S.C. The accompanying notes mention "titt 1-3000."

A German 60 C.M. gauge speeder with couplers is seen in Abainville, Meuse, France. The photo was taken on 3-1-19 by photographer SUBIECT 49268 cpl. W J.Beach, S.C. and the description was issued on B 1-29-19.

Caproni plane prepared for takeoff. Photograph taken in September 1917 by an unknown photographer. The Caproni model on display appears to be a Humber A. This image, identified as subject 1258, was taken during World War One. It is only authorized for release with approval from the Italian High Commission.

A broken bridge caused by heavy trucks during a motor convoy trip. Image taken by Sgt. Lacey on August 1, 1919.

Side view photograph of the first Canadian J.N.4 airplane, manufactured by Canadian Aeroplanes Ltd. in Toronto, Canada. Taken on September 12, 1915. This image is for official use only.

Title: "Thomas 8-4 Side View at SYNDOL AU Aviation Experiment Station, Hampton, VA" Caption: A photograph taken on July 8, 1917, depicts the Thomas 8-4 aircraft in a side view. The image was issued by the Syndol AU Aviation Experiment Station in Hampton, VA. The experimental aircraft was part of military activities during World War One.

A group of jubilant Americans can be seen riding in a U.S. automobile in London, England. This photograph was taken on November 11, 1918, the day the Germans signed the armistice, bringing an end to World War I. The caption notes the photographer and details regarding the image's issuance number.

President Wilson arriving at Manchester Ship Canal in Manchester, England. This photograph was taken on December 30, 1918, and is categorized as reco 3-10-1921. The symbol "E" was issued for this image, and the note is labeled ITE 63070 3-M400.

Flatbed railroad car, number 80448, belonging to the 21st Grand Division Transportation Corps at Camp Pullman, France during World War One. The photograph was taken on May 25, 1919, and received by the photographer on July 15, 1919. The car displays the symbol "E" representing the 21st Grand Division Transportation Corps.

"Transport Northern Pacific on Fire Island sand bar during World War One. The ship was carrying 2582 returned soldiers, mostly ambulatory wounded. The men were safely removed using breeches buoy, surf boats, naval launches, and submarine chasers. No lives were lost. Seen on the beach during the rescue work."

Trans-Continental Motor Convoy crossing a sandy grade in Nebraska. An F.W.D. Truck successfully ascends the grade in second gear, while other types of trucks struggle in low gear. This image shows the reliable and powerful nature of the F.W.D. Truck during World War One transportation efforts.

Planes at Kelly Field, 1918. Some of the hangars are visible in the image. Two planes are in the air while another one is preparing for takeoff. This photograph is labeled as number 9571 from the collection of Photographs of American Military Activities during World War One, with the issuing symbol "A." Additional notes include "3571."

Dry Dock alongside the Army Base in Boston, Massachusetts. The photograph was taken on May 1, 1920, and has the identifier number 68474-A. The photographer is GT Saum. It is a US official image captured for military documentation purposes.

"Light railway running adjacent to a canal in Vertuzey, Meuse, France. The photograph taken on January 3, 1919, features Corporal W.J.Beach, S.C. The image showcases the Director of Light Railways and Roads overseeing the railway operations. Note the reference numbers: RECO 1955-19, DESCRIPTION: GUED Me NUMBER H 1-26-19."

A Caproni aircraft at the National Aviation Experiment Station in Hampton, Virginia, is prepared for a trip to Washington D.C. on September 22, 1917. The photograph bears the official label "For Official use only F332."

"Photograph taken by Herman Whitaker from a seaplane during World War One. The image shows a ship approximately 5000 feet below the plane. Although the sea appears calm, there was a strong 60 mile wind making photography difficult. Image number 8068, notes suggest potential danger in capturing the shot."

A collapsible observer's tower mounted on a motor truck, used by the Engineers Corps during World War One. The photo was taken at Washington Barracks, D.C. on June 1918. This tower allowed for strategic observation and planning during military operations.

"Damaged plane from the American Military's Air Service Flying School at Rich Field, Waco, Texas. The plane veered off course and landed in a fence near Hillsboro, Texas. This photograph is not for public publication and is intended for official use only."

A photograph taken by Sot. Musler, S.C. on December 17, 1918, depicts a wreck in Fahr Irlich, Germany during World War One. The image shows one car stacked directly on top of another, resulting in a significant pile-up. This incident occurred as noted in the 44/11 record.

A stripped Curtis motor on a repair stand at Wilbur Wright Aviation Field in Fairfield, Ohio. Received from the commanding officer at Wilbur Wright Field. The photograph was taken on July 11, 1918.

Trans-Atlantic Motor Convoy trucks driving through the Red Desert between Rawlins and Tipton Station, Wyoming. In the foreground, there is a rock that has been weathered by wind and sand, making it resemble a dog. This photograph was taken on August 15, 1919.

Rear view of a completed Murray-Carnes all-steel airplane being tested at Acceptance Field in Detroit, Michigan. The photograph was taken on October 14, 1918 by CPL Palumbo and is part of SC-23018 collection of American military activities during World War One.

Side view of the Albree Monoplane at the Aviation Experiment Station in Hampton, Virginia. The photograph was taken on January 15, 1919, and is labeled as number 54331.

A B ration train pulling out of a village in France. The photograph was taken by Sgt. L. Rode on July 3, 1918. Capt. Mansfield of the 21st Engineers is seen on the locomotive. The image is part of the Department of Light Railways and Roads collection. Censored by the A.E.F. on August 13, 1918.

Caption: Truck and train of ten trailers transporting a 16-ton load at the Motor Assembling Park in St. Nazaire, Loire Inferieure, France during World War One. The photograph was taken on November 18, 1917, and is numbered 59882.

Caproni airplane arrives at Polo Grounds, Washington, D.C. from Langley Field, Virginia. Photo taken in 1919.

Motor convoy trip in Nebraska during World War One, trucks chained together to facilitate climbing a steep grade. Photograph by Sgt. Lacey, taken on August 1, 1919. This image is part of StillPixFindingAid number 64231.

A heavy truck from the Motor Transport Corps (M.T.C.) is shown attempting to cross a bridge in Nevada. Sadly, the bridge could not bear the weight of the truck and collapsed under the strain. This photograph was captured by Sgt. Lacy on November 8, 1919.

"Class B spare parts truck aiding in the repair of a G.M.C. ambulance on the Transcontinental motor truck convoy east of Chicago Heights, Ill. This photograph was taken in 1919 by LT. JACKSON.S.C., depicting the transportation activities during World War One. Additional notes include the photo's ID number 9862156 J-S."

"Aviation Experiment Station, Hampton, Virginia. Sterid ard H4H aircraft is photographed in motion. Taken by Hunder photographer, assigned number 3661. Issued on August 8, 1917. Description of the image: Symbol AU - symbolizing aviation activities. Notes state B3661 and 8216."

Airplane No. 5159 at the Air Service Flying School in Rich Field, Waco, Texas, after a rough landing. The photograph, taken in September 1918, was received from D.M.A. Photographer on November 5, 1918. This image was not intended for publication and is classified for official use only.

American planes being tested at the Hempton Aviation Experiment Station in Vernal, Utah. The specific aircraft shown is the Albree monoplane. The photograph was taken on October 1, 1917. The plane's identification number is 03143, and it had a total of 8,369 hours of flight time.

Panoramic view of a truck park in Le Mans, Sarthe, France during World War One. The photograph was taken on March 1, 1919, by Pvt. W. J. Beach, S.C. It shows a large number of trucks parked in an open area, with the Cathedral visible in the background.

Disabled truck on a wide road between Blercourt and Dombasle in Meuse, France. This truck would have created significant obstacles if the road were not as wide. Photograph taken by an A.E.F. photographer on 9-30-48, with the description and notes provided.

President Wilson and his party arrive in the Port of Dover, England aboard the H.M.S. "Brighton" after returning from France. This photograph was taken on December 26, 1918 by Donnelly & Kelly, S.C. It is numbered 38032 and received on February 10, 1919.

Troops on board the S.S. America nearing Hoboken piers during World War One.

Dirigible balloon accompanying the U.S.S. George Washington during President Wilson's departure for the Peace Conference. In this photograph, taken by a Signal Corps photographer in 1918 or 1919, the balloon is seen from the deck of the George Washington, located 100 miles at sea. The balloon was used as a means of surveillance and communication during military activities in WWI.

Aero ambulance at Rich Field, Waco, Texas during World War One. The image shows the arrangement of control wires in the ambulance with the cowl removed, indicating preparedness to receive a patient. The photograph was taken in December 1918.

Gasoline tractor type 0-4-0 U.S 35 H.P. Bal.L.Co. in Abainville, Meuse, France. The tractor was used by the Director of Light Railways and Roads during World War One. This photograph was taken on January 3, 1919, by cpl. W.J.Beach, S.C. It is referenced as subject 49218 with a description issued on January 24, 1919.

A hydroplane is seen on the Potomac River in Washington, D.C. The photo was taken by photographer Reed and was issued by the Signal Corps as part of the collection "Photographs of American Military Activities during World War One." The image is labeled as SYMBOL A and has the description "A hydroplane on Potomac River."

A freight train carrying various types of rolling stock during World War I. The image, labeled as 35,131 by the Signal Corps, shows a collection of freight cars. These cars were used for transporting supplies and equipment during the war. The photo shows the U.S.A. symbol on the train, indicating it belongs to the United States Army.

Transcontinental motor truck convoy in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Dinner tables arranged in the form of a giant motor truck wheel on a high school lawn. This photo was taken on July 23, 1919.

An image taken in an airplane hangar during World War One. The photograph, numbered 111-SC-21968, shows a Humber 21968 S.C. car. This photo, taken by a photographer in the RECO division, features an "O" symbol on the car. It is unclear what the symbol represents.

A Spad plane preparing for takeoff. This particular Spad type is the Spad 13, as confirmed by the M.I.D. censor. The photograph was received from the French Pictorial Service in December 1918. Official use only - do not distribute.

Motor Convoy Trip: A motor convoy travels along a dusty road just before entering Franklin Grove, Illinois. This photograph, taken on August 1, 1919, depicts one of the many transportation activities during World War One. The convoy includes several vehicles and is embarking on a dusty journey.

A 10 x 13 photograph taken on September 25, 1918, by S.c. Photographer Sumber. The image features Cpl. R.H. Ingleston alongside a Lidgerwood Logging donkey, used in the transportation of logs down to the mill on a 72° grade. The photo was passed by the A.E.F. censor, although the exact date of approval is not provided.

Image of the tail skid of a Curtiss Triplane, taken at the Aviation Experiment Station in Hampton, VA on July 14, 1917. The photograph showcases the design and structure of the aircraft's tail skid. This image is reference number 3,609 out of the collection.

Title: German and American Mechanics Testing Fokker Plane in Coblenz, Rhenish Prussia Caption: German and American mechanics are seen bringing out a Fokker plane for a trial flight in Coblenz, Rhenish Prussia, Germany. Out of a total of 30 planes, one is chosen for testing by German pilots. This photograph was taken by H.D. Lothers, a photographer based in Coblenz.

Trucks from the Transcontinental Motor Truck Convoy are seen abandoned in the streets of Dixon, Illinois. The men taking part in the convoy are seen enjoying their lunch, which is provided by the Red Cross Canteen service. The photograph was taken on July 22, 1919.

This photograph depicts a triplane that has recently crashed at the School of Military Aeronautics in Langley Field, Hampton, Virginia. The image was taken by a photographer assigned to the C.O. of the School of Aerial Photography on April 17, 1918. The triplane appears to be damaged and in need of repair.

A parade of Smith's long distance moving trucks on 14th Street in Washington, D.C. They were part of a ship by truck parade that took place on May 20, 1920. The photograph was taken by Sergeant Warner S.C., and it is identified as number 68682 in the collection.

Side view of a Thomas S-4 airplane, taken at the Aviation Experiment Station in Hampton, VA. The photograph was received from C.O. Aviation Exp. Station on September 19, 1918. The date the photo was taken is July 8, 1917. This photograph is marked "ISSUED NOTES FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY."

The photograph shows a trans-Atlantic motor convoy where a Militor winch is seen exerting such force on a Class B Truck that it lifts the rear wheels off the ground, causing the truck to stand on its sprag. The incident took place 10 miles west of North Platte, Nebraska.

This image, numbered 111-SC-10631, depicts the Aerial Mail Service between Washington, D.C., and New York City, New York. The photo captures the view of the "boat" that was used for the return journey to New York City. It was taken on May 15, 1918, by Lieutenant DeBerri.

Narrow gauge railway in Nitro, West Virginia, transporting a load of copper. Photograph taken on September 7, 1919, by Pvt. Toesler, S.C. Symbol A on the image indicates that it was issued. This is a factual description of the photograph from the collection "Photographs of American Military Activities during World War One."

Sgt. Vincent J. Palumbo is pictured at Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Maryland. The image shows a freight car dedicated to transporting Chilean mounts. The photograph was taken on December 4, 1918 and received approval from the M.I.D. censor on December 10, 1918. No further notes are available.

Historical Transportation - California. Photographs Relating to National Forests, Resource Management Practices, Personnel, and Cultural and Economic History

The photograph shows a Quartermaster motor truck with the number 8 on its side. It was taken in April 1918 as part of the activities of the Engineer Corps of the U.S. Army. The image is not authorized for publication.

French refugees returning home crossing the Meuse River on a makeshift ferry in Villers, Devant, Mouzon in Ardennes, France. Photograph taken by Eikleberg, S. C. on February 13, 1919, at 11:48:18. Image reference number 111-SC-37584.

Italian Societa Italiana Aviazione 9B (S.I.A. 9B) Day Bomber shown in the photograph. It was a very speedy and fast bomber with a high ceiling. It had a wing spread of 50 ft. 10 in., and was fitted with the most powerful motor at that time - FIAT 685 HP. It could fly for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. It took around 8 minutes to climb to 6,500 ft. and had a top speed of 129 miles at that altitude. Its ceiling was 23,000 ft. and it could carry 770 lbs. of bombs. This particular model had a crew of 2 and was armed with 3 guns. The British and American De Havilland versions of the 4 and 9 are mentioned but not shown in the Day Bombers section due to their similarity to other machines mentioned.

Trucks of the 1st Field Signal Battalion, First Division, are seen on the Lincoln Highway between Belair and Baltimore during their journey from New York to Washington, D.C. This photograph, taken on September 15th, 1919, shows the convoy as it makes its way through Maryland. The photographer was Sgt. Warner, S.C.

A bombing plane flying high among the clouds at Ellington Field, Houston, Texas. Hooks can be seen under the plane where bombs have been released. This photo was taken by Lt. H.P. Kingmore of the Signal Corps in May 1918 and was censored and released by M.I.B. Censor on June 12, 1918.

Historical Transportation - Idaho. Photographs Relating to National Forests, Resource Management Practices, Personnel, and Cultural and Economic History

Seaplane at the Aviation Experiment Station in Hampton, Virginia during World War One. The seaplane shown is identified as a Macchi' seaplane. This photograph was taken by the US Army Signal Corps photographer.

Cpl. Tysell crating Class A and B trucks at Camp Holabird, Maryland in January 1919. The photo shows a rear half view of a Class B truck. The image was received and taken on Jan. 29, 1919 and was approved by the M.I.D. censor on Jan. 30, 1919. 18BUED: NOTES 9035627.

A flat car has been repurposed as a transportation vehicle for wounded soldiers. The photo was taken in Sorcy, France on July 1, 1918, by Sgt. L. Rode, S.C. The flat car has been equipped by the Department of Light Railways and Roads for this purpose. It was passed by the A.E.F. Censor on August 13, 1918.

Front view of a plane about to land smoothly at Kelley Fields in Texas in 1918. The photograph was taken by Lt. Kingsmore, as part of the SYNOL issued training for aviation cadets during World War One. Caption notes: 95.59

A photograph of a balloon dirigible with the registration number 2254, taken during American military activities in World War One. The image was captured in the vicinity of U.S.A. Balloons. The specific date of registration and any accompanying symbols or notes are not mentioned.

Caption: "Rear view of new Liberty Caproni CA-5 bombing plane at Hazelhurst Field, Mineola, L.I., taken on Oct. 14, 1918. This photograph was taken prior to a demonstration flight. Note 1540. For official use only. Photograph from the collection Photographs of American Military Activities during World War One."

A hospital airplane from Brooks Field lands on the parade grounds at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas. This photograph was taken in December 1918 and is part of the Photographs of American Military Activities during World War One collection.

"An airplane at Preston Flying Field in Dallas, Texas collapsed upon impact with the ground after a forward drop. This photograph was taken on November 21, 1918 by D.M.A. Photographer 54200. The airplane is not meant for publication and is for official use only. Notes indicate the location as Preston Field, located 3 miles east of Love Field, Texas."

The photograph shows the First DH4 aircraft with registration number 22804 and Lincoln engine number 116 at Acceptance Park in Detroit, Michigan. The photo was taken on February 7, 1919, by the photographer with the ID number 54345 from the D.M.A. This information was recorded in the photo description.

Hydroplane BER 140 in action during World War One. This photograph, taken in 1919 and labeled as 111-SC-140, shows the hydroplane flying over water. The hydroplane, identified by the symbol AU. 140, was used by the American military during the war.

Logging: Transportation: Log Drive - New Hampshire. Photographs Relating to National Forests, Resource Management Practices, Personnel, and Cultural and Economic History

Trucks of the Motor Transport Corps (M.T.C.) starting their Trans-Continental Tour from Washington, D.C. The photograph, taken on July 7, 1919 by Sgt. Bonner.S.C, depicts the M.T.C. truck leaving from the Eclipse for their cross-country journey. This image has the ID number 61195 and was received on July 26, 1919.

A plane wrecked at Love Field, Dallas, Texas during World War One. The forced landing was a result of a defective motor. Lieutenant H.B. Harrison successfully landed the plane at McKinney, Texas. This photograph was taken on December 3rd, 1918. The document is labeled "Not for publication - For official use only."

Tank car #70148 of the 21st Grand Division Transportation Corps at Camp Pullman, France. The tank car is marked with the symbol 218T and was photographed on July 23, 1918. This image was taken by a photographer from the Signal Corps. Notes mention a person named Delmir.

Rear view of a Caproni Biplane at the Aviation Experiment Station in Hampton, Virginia. The photograph was taken on January 15, 1919 by an unknown photographer. The aircraft's registration number is SC 54337. This image is part of the Ma collection and is labeled with the notes H263.

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