Biographical Sketches

WILLIAM T. PIPER

Born: Jan 8, 1881    In: Knapps Creek, NY
Died: January 15, 1970    In: Lock Haven, PA

William Piper first worked in construction, then in his family’s oil business, before finding his calling in aviation.

Known as "The Henry Ford of aviation," Piper mass-produced affordable aircraft and is credited with popularizing airplanes as a method of personal transportation and as a hobby. Although he did not learn to fly until 1931, he entered aviation in 1929 by investing in the Taylor Brothers Aircraft Corp to build their Model E-2 Cub. By 1937, Piper had bought out the Taylors’ interest in the company and established the Piper Aircraft Corporation to produce the famous yellow J-3 Cubs.

Popular for their simplicity and maneuverability, Piper Cubs were used as liaison craft, in photo-recon, and for training new pilots during World War II, numbering more than 14,000 before their production end. They were the matrix of his company, where he remained its president until his death.

Enshrined in National Aviation Hall of Fame 1980.

Denotes an individual known to have soloed an aircraft prior to December 16, 1917, whether they were members of the "Early Birds of Aviation" Organization or not.