This collection consists of one poster announcing King's gas balloon ascension at the Centennial International Exhibition on August 30, 1876, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The poster is 31 by 44.5 inches, and the overprinted illustration depicts King in flight in his balloon over a large crowd, tent at right background.
Biographical / Historical:
Samuel King (1828-1914) was a ballooning pioneer in the United States. He made his first balloon ascension in 1851, and over the course of his career he made over 450 flights. His flights generated great interest and balloon ascensions become an elemet of expositions and traveling shows. King also made several ascensions with United States Signal Service officers for the study of meteorology, leading the way with scientific study of air navigation and aerial photography.
Provenance:
Unknown, found in collection, Unknown, Inknown
Restrictions:
No restrictions on access.
Rights:
Material is subject to Smithsonian Terms of Use. Should you wish to use NASM material in any medium, please submit an Application for Permission to Reproduce NASM Material, available at Permissions Requests
