USS Shenandoah (ZR-1) Ohio Crash Scene
[Lakehurst?]: Clements, 1925. Silver gelatin photograph. Framed. Approximately 10 3/4" x 37 3/4", sight 6 5/8" x 31 1/4" Near fine. Not examined out of frame.
Uncommon original silver gelatin panoramic photograph of the Ohio crash of the U. S. Navy's first rigid airship, the USS Shenandoah. The Shenandoah encountered a severe storm over Ohio on the morning of September 3, 1925, the violent updraft of which quickly carried the ship to an altitude that ruptured her gas bags and resulted in turbulence that broke the ship into three pieces.
This photograph shows the aft section of the ship, in which 18 crewmen survived the crash. The Shenandoah was on her 57th flight, intended as a promotional visit to the Midwest from her home base at Lakehurst, New Jersey.
Lakehurst-based photographer Rell Sam Clements, known for his panoramic photographs, apparently captured this image a short time after the crash, as souvenir hunters would soon carry off most of the ship's fabric skin.
We have not found this particular view of the crash reproduced elsewhere. This amazing historical photograph is nicely matted and framed, ready to hang. Will require specific quote if shipping is required.
Item #1473
Price: $475