The Hudson River Valley Institute (HRVI) at Marist College and the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum come to Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome in the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area to pay tribute to Glenn Curtiss on Saturday, Oct. 9.
“We will be making this day a celebration of the 100th anniversary of Curtiss’ historic flight in his Albany Flyer down the Hudson River Valley from Albany to Manhattan. We will also recognize those who strive to preserve the memory of his innovative spirit,” said HRVI Executive Director Colonel (Ret.) James Johnson.
Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome Air Shows President Hugh Schoelzel expressed appreciation for the choice of the Aerodrome as a fitting venue and explained the special air show: “Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome’s replica of the 1911 Curtiss “D” Pusher — very similar to Glenn Curtiss’ Albany Flyer — will be on display to greet guests entering the Aerodrome courtyard. At 2 p.m., the Pioneer and Barnstorming Air Show will feature the Curtiss “D” Pusher in a taxi demonstration of its unique flight controls, flying exhibitions of an original Curtiss JN-4 H Hisso Jenny built for the Great War in 1918 and a Curtiss Wright Junior CW-1 built by Curtiss as an economical flying machine for recreational pilots in 1931.” The museum and grounds open at 10 a.m. with four hangars full of antique airplanes and related artifacts to browse through; biplane rides will also be available.
Following the air show, the Hudson River Valley Institute is sponsoring a lecture by Trafford Doherty, Executive Director of The Glenn H. Curtiss Museum of Hammondsport, New York. There will also be a special static display and photo opportunities of the Curtiss airplanes.
“This is an appropriate way not only to celebrate Mr. Curtiss and his achievements but to recognize them as having the period significance of the exploration of space today. His historic flight down the Hudson River Valley 100 years ago marks the birth of practical inter-city commerce by airplane,” Mark Castiglione, Acting Executive Director of the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area commented.
For more information: Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome: 845-752-3200 or OldRhinebeck.org; Glenn H. Curtis Museum: 607-569-2160 or GlennHCurtissMuseum.org
