Frank Reade Jr. and his daughter, Kate Reade,
were the greatest explorers and inventors of the late 19th century.
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These aeronuatic adventures directly inspired Jules Verne's stories such as
The Steam House, Robur the Conqueror, and Master of the World.
Reade's helicopter airships predate Verne's "Albatross" by several years.
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Buy an 11" x 17" print of the above image HERE. |
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Manufactured entirely at the Reades' foundries and machine works in Readestown, Pennsylvania, the ships were constructed from a bullet-proof aluminum/steel alloy of Frank Reade Jr.'s own invention.
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Chemical generators powered the rotors and the vessel's electrical systems, such as sources of light and heat. The ships were airtight and could be pressurized for high-altitude flight.
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The craft were well-armed, and their decks were electrified to repel boarders. Fully loaded, the ships were capable of traveling around the world without making a single stop.
Purchase beautifully restored, full color art prints of Frank Reade adventures.
The Reade Gift Shop
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