Harold F. Pitcairn
Bryn Athyn, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania
Marker Inscription
The noted aeronautical pioneer established his first flying field on this site in 1924. The 1930 Collier Trophy, an award for accomplishments in aviation, was presented to Pitcairn and his associates for developing the American autogiro, first introduced here.
Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
The Story
In 1924 aviation pioneer Harold F. Pitcairn established his first flying field on this site, launching decades of experimentation in flight. He and his associates developed the American autogiro—an aircraft with a free-spinning rotor that pointed toward the eventual helicopter—and won the prestigious 1930 Collier Trophy for the achievement. This quiet Montgomery County ground was an early laboratory of American aeronautical innovation.
Why it matters
It marks a foundational chapter in the story of American rotary-wing flight, bridging the airplane age and the coming of the helicopter.
Plan your visit
NearbyMake a day of it — museums, food, and places to stay near this marker.
Museums & culture
- National Constitution Center13.2 mi away · 525 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Betsy Ross House13.2 mi away · 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Illadelph Glass Gallery13.2 mi away · 68 North 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Muse Gallery13.3 mi away · 52 North 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Larry Becker Contemporary Art13.3 mi away · 43 North 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA
- African American Museum in Philadelphia13.3 mi away · 701 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
Attractions
- Harbison's Dairy Milk Bottle11.1 mi away
- Discovery Center at East Park Reservoir12.5 mi away
- Philly Gun Range12.8 mi away · North Percy Street
- Pennsylvania Railroad, Connecting Railway Bridge13.0 mi away
- Elfreth's Alley13.2 mi away
- Rocky Steps13.2 mi away
Food & drink
- Independence Mall Cafe13.3 mi away · 50 North Independence Mall East, Philadelphia
- 3J's Cafe13.4 mi away · 317 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Bubble Tea Room13.4 mi away · 319 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
- PrimoHoagies13.4 mi away · 304 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Fork13.4 mi away · 306 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Menagerie Coffee13.4 mi away · 18 South 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA
Places to stay
- Holiday Inn Express Philadelphia E - Penns Landing13.1 mi away · 100 North Christopher Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia
- Clarion Suites Philadelphia13.3 mi away · 1010 Race Street, Philadelphia
- Four Points by Sheraton Philadelphia City Center13.3 mi away · 1201 Race Street, Philadelphia
- Days Inn Philadelphia Convention Center - Philadelphia13.3 mi away · 1227 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Wyndham Philadelphia Historic District13.3 mi away · 400 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Penn's View Hotel13.3 mi away · 14 North Front Street, Philadelphia
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Related people
- · Harold F. Pitcairn
Themes & tags
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