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governments. This beautifully finished craft, had an overall length of 28 feet, 6 inches with a top span of 38 feet, lower 28 feet, length 24 feet, 6 inches, and a 90 h.p. Austro-Daimler engine. The wings were in six sections. four main planes with two detachable overhauling panels. There were two cockpits, the forward one for pilot and passenger and the other for additional passengers and extra fuel. The company was very progressive and the school was soon training Canadian students who later went into active military service during World War I.

In January, 1917, the firm was reorganized to become the Thomas-Morse Corporation and Brown was retained as Factory Superintendent. This firm made many noteworthy contributions to military aviation through World War I. 

Brown remained with Thomas-Morse as Factory Superintendent until 1919, when he left to go with the Old Town Canoe Company, where he remained until 1924. That year he joined the Penn Yan Boat Company of Penn Yan, New York. A former Thomas Brothers flying associate, Charles Herrman, had started the firm and induced Brown to join him in the venture. The business grew, and in 1940 Brown became President, and remained in this position until his retirement from active business in 1961. He continued to live at Penn Yan, where he enjoyed hunting and fishing as a hobby.

Flying Pioneer, Early Bird Ralph M. Brown deserves great credit for his many noteworthy contributions to early American aviation history. He was one of that pioneering fraternity of flying enthusiasts who, by their experimenting, courage, and foresight, carved out the beginnings of a new industry - one used throughout the world today - the aviation industry.

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