Historic Early 20th Century American Aviator

This photograph features Frank Coffyn, a prominent American aviator known for his contributions to early aviation in the early 20th century. Taken between 1910 and 1915, it captures a pivotal moment in history when aviation was in its infancy. Coffyn was not just a pilot; he was an innovator, often involved in demonstrating flight and promoting aviation to the public. His endeavors helped spark interest and acceptance of airplanes as a viable mode of transportation.

The image is part of the George Grantham Bain Collection, which documented important news events and figures of the time. The Bain News Service, responsible for this photograph, played a key role in reporting on advancements in technology and the burgeoning aviation industry. This photo is a snapshot of a transformative period, illustrating not only Coffyn’s influence but also the larger narrative of how aviation was reshaping the modern world.