Description
Discover the captivating tale of Howard Hughes and the Spruce Goose in 'Howard Hughes and the Spruce Goose: The Story of the HK-1 Hercules.' This expertly crafted book by Graham M. Simons delves into the ambitious saga behind the HK-1 Hercules, better known as the Spruce Goose, exploring both its monumental design and the legacy it left in aviation history. With 256 pages filled with rich illustrations, rare photographs, and exclusive insights from the aircraft manual, readers will uncover the engineering challenges and historical significance of one of the largest aircraft ever produced.
The Spruce Goose was the ultimate symbol of Hughes’ obsession with perfection. Despite its impressive wingspan of 320 feet—still the largest ever—this iconic flying boat is remembered mostly for its single, fleeting flight over Long Beach Harbour. This book not only chronicles the construction of this colossal aircraft but also sheds light on the political controversies surrounding Hughes’ endeavors, including the findings of the Senate War Investigations Committee regarding government funding.
Perfect for aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, and those intrigued by the complexities of engineering, 'Howard Hughes and the Spruce Goose' is available in paperback format and ensures a deep dive into the intricacies of one of aviation's most polarizing figures. Whether you're a passionate collector or just stepping into the world of aviation history, this book is a must-have addition to your library.
**Delivery Information:** Enjoy fast shipping options available within New Zealand and beyond. Get your copy today and dive into an unparalleled narrative of ambition, innovation, and controversy.
By Simons, Graham, M.
Condition: BRAND NEW
Format: Paperback
Number of Pages 256
Publisher Pen & Sword Books Ltd
Howard Hughes' life ambition was to make a significant contribution to the field of aviation development. But the monumental folly of his endeavours on the HK-I Hercules meant that he came to be known and remembered to a great extent for all the wrong reasons. The 'Spruce Goose' (a name Hughes detested) became a product of his wild fixation on perfection and scale. Once completed, it was the largest flying machine ever built. Its wingspan of 320 feet remains the largest in history. Yet it only completed one flight; flying for a mile on its maiden voyage above Long Beach Harbour, before being consigned to the history books as a failure. Experienced author Graham M. Simons turns his attention to the production process that saw this colossus take shape. In words and images, all aspects of this process are illustrated. We have shots taken during the initial design period, images of the craft under construction, and photographs taken at the test flights. In addition, Simons has been gifted access to the highly prized and rarely seen aircraft manual produced for the aircraft, content from which has been extracted and used to supplement the narrative. The book goes on to explore the political issues that sprung up as a result of Hughes' endeavours, looking into the Senate War Investigations Committee's findings which explored the extent to which government funds had been utilised in the development and construction of the flying boat, adding a whole new layer of controversy to the proceedings.
The Spruce Goose was the ultimate symbol of Hughes’ obsession with perfection. Despite its impressive wingspan of 320 feet—still the largest ever—this iconic flying boat is remembered mostly for its single, fleeting flight over Long Beach Harbour. This book not only chronicles the construction of this colossal aircraft but also sheds light on the political controversies surrounding Hughes’ endeavors, including the findings of the Senate War Investigations Committee regarding government funding.
Perfect for aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, and those intrigued by the complexities of engineering, 'Howard Hughes and the Spruce Goose' is available in paperback format and ensures a deep dive into the intricacies of one of aviation's most polarizing figures. Whether you're a passionate collector or just stepping into the world of aviation history, this book is a must-have addition to your library.
**Delivery Information:** Enjoy fast shipping options available within New Zealand and beyond. Get your copy today and dive into an unparalleled narrative of ambition, innovation, and controversy.
By Simons, Graham, M.
Condition: BRAND NEW
Format: Paperback
Number of Pages 256
Publisher Pen & Sword Books Ltd
Howard Hughes' life ambition was to make a significant contribution to the field of aviation development. But the monumental folly of his endeavours on the HK-I Hercules meant that he came to be known and remembered to a great extent for all the wrong reasons. The 'Spruce Goose' (a name Hughes detested) became a product of his wild fixation on perfection and scale. Once completed, it was the largest flying machine ever built. Its wingspan of 320 feet remains the largest in history. Yet it only completed one flight; flying for a mile on its maiden voyage above Long Beach Harbour, before being consigned to the history books as a failure. Experienced author Graham M. Simons turns his attention to the production process that saw this colossus take shape. In words and images, all aspects of this process are illustrated. We have shots taken during the initial design period, images of the craft under construction, and photographs taken at the test flights. In addition, Simons has been gifted access to the highly prized and rarely seen aircraft manual produced for the aircraft, content from which has been extracted and used to supplement the narrative. The book goes on to explore the political issues that sprung up as a result of Hughes' endeavours, looking into the Senate War Investigations Committee's findings which explored the extent to which government funds had been utilised in the development and construction of the flying boat, adding a whole new layer of controversy to the proceedings.