Viewing page 41 of 105

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

FAMOUS OLD BALLOONS

139

Mr. Ferris had purchased two large spherical balloons which he had in storage in Los Angeles and he wanted me to do something which would gain additional publicity for him. One was the balloon named "United States" which was used by Lt. Frank Lahm when he won the Gordon Bennett Trophy. Just how this balloon was procured Mr. Ferris [[strikethrough]] has [[/strikethrough]] never revealed. The other balloon was the "America", constructed by Leo Stevens and both were in fair condition. We decided to make a balloon ascension and carry as passengers Paul Cowles, a representative of the Associated Press, and George B. Harrison who was with the Los Angeles Herald. I do not recall why Dick did not go along but we three took off and made a short flight to Orange, California a trip of about 45 or 50 miles. Mr. Cowles did not enjoy his ride but the experience had an important