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These blue, ever-seeking-new-horizons eyes of mine first saw the light of day in Lancaster, Ohio on July 15, 1876. I was the second of a family later to grow into a pool of five sons, born to Salome Matlack Knabenshue and Samuel S. Knabenshue. My early childhood was that of a normal healthy youngster who grew up in a small midwestern town.

In the early 1880's, my father moved his family to Columbus Ohio where he entered a new profession. He became editor of the Ohio State Journal. It was through him that I knew Sam Filckenger, father's associate editor. Sam had become interested in balloons and one day became so daring he decided he would make an ascension with a professional aeronaut from the State House grounds. I was but five years of age at the time, and having heard from father all about this exciting adventure, I begged him to take me to see the balloon. My enthusiasm and persuasive talents finally paid off and I was allowed to go. Once there I wanted to get a close view of the contraption, and was permitted to stand in the basket where I swelled with conceit and pride.

The spectacle of that particular balloon ascension will remain with me as long as I live, as such early impressions are lasting. The ballon new and constructed of fine silk, and varnished to make it gas tight. When ready to ascend, it was a thing of beauty. Everyone present was tremendously thrilled and pleased. I vaguely remember that when news finally arrived that Sam and hes fellow passenger had landed safely, father and the crowd were all relieved of the dread of possible disaster.