Rare 1919 Curtiss Oriole Biplane Acquired by Cradle of Aviation Museum
In Garden City, New York, the Cradle of Aviation Museum has secured a unique Curtiss Oriole biplane from the 1920s, which is set for a lengthy restoration process. Once the restoration is complete, the aircraft will be showcased above the museum's café next to a mural created by Aline Rhonie. An exhibit featuring the unrestored plane is planned for next year. The Oriole, crafted by the Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company, established by Glenn Curtiss, began production in 1919 for civilian aviation and was utilized for significant missions, including Arctic expeditions. One of the few still in existence, this plane was built in Garden City and later shipped to Argentina, retaining 90% of its original components and remaining in excellent condition.
Key facts
- Cradle of Aviation Museum acquired a Curtiss Oriole biplane.
- The Oriole was built in the 1920s by Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company.
- The plane arrived in pieces and will undergo restoration.
- Restoration is expected to take several years.
- After restoration, the plane will be suspended above the museum's cafe.
- The museum has a 100-foot-long mural by Aline Rhonie featuring an Oriole.
- The unrestored plane will be in a retrospective exhibit next year.
- The plane came from East Wenatchee, Washington.
- It is one of a few known examples in existence.
- The plane was manufactured in Garden City, New York.
- It was sent to Argentina after manufacturing.
- The plane retains about 90% of its original parts.
- Restoration manager Peter Truesdell commented on the plane's condition.
Entities
Artists
- Aline Rhonie
Institutions
- Cradle of Aviation Museum
- Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company
Locations
- Garden City
- New York
- East Wenatchee
- Washington
- Long Island
- Argentina