Details
GENET, Edmond Charles (1763-1834). Memorial on the Upward Forces of Fluids, and their applicability to several arts, sciences and public improvements: for which a patent has been granted by the government of the United States. Albany: Printed by Packard and Van Penthuysen 1825.
8o (228 x 140 mm). 6 engraved plates, one letterpress folding table (Some browning and staining.) Original printed boards (light staining to edges).
FIRST EDITION: THE FIRST AMERICAN PUBLICATION ON AVIATION
Genet was the controversial ambassador of the French Republic to the United States. Rather than return to a France in turmoil, he settled in New York and married Cornelia Clinton, the daughter of New York Governor George Clinton. Despite its title, which suggests hydraulics, "from a scientific viewpoint this is the most important American publication in the field of aviation, for it is the first printed suggestion of the correct theory of the heavier than air machine" (Bennett, Practical Guide to American Book Collecting p.59). The appendix includes chapters on "navigating the atmosphere," "applying steam power to aeronautics," and the "velocity of different winds." Aeronautical Americana 9; Brockett 5185; Howes G-100; Streeter sale VII: 3974 ("first book printed in the United States on practical aeronautics and on the first patent for an aeronautical invention..."). Rare.
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FIRST EDITION: THE FIRST AMERICAN PUBLICATION ON AVIATION
Genet was the controversial ambassador of the French Republic to the United States. Rather than return to a France in turmoil, he settled in New York and married Cornelia Clinton, the daughter of New York Governor George Clinton. Despite its title, which suggests hydraulics, "from a scientific viewpoint this is the most important American publication in the field of aviation, for it is the first printed suggestion of the correct theory of the heavier than air machine" (Bennett, Practical Guide to American Book Collecting p.59). The appendix includes chapters on "navigating the atmosphere," "applying steam power to aeronautics," and the "velocity of different winds." Aeronautical Americana 9; Brockett 5185; Howes G-100; Streeter sale VII: 3974 ("first book printed in the United States on practical aeronautics and on the first patent for an aeronautical invention..."). Rare.