Sikorsky Seminar

For the aviation history enthusiast, The Bradford Camps is offering a weekend-long seminar devoted to the far-ranging life of Igor I. Sikorsky. With excellent photos and Sikorsky family speakers we will look at Igor's Russian years in aviation, his World War 1 aircraft, his large commercial amphibian aircraft of the 20's and 30's, and his helicopter development. The seminar is held at The Bradford Camps on Munsungun Lake in northern Maine. Meals and private lodging is included.

The 2009 seminar will be held on July 3,4,5. Cost is $295 per person, double occupancy which includes all meals, private lodging, and full use of all facilities including boats, motors and kayaks. Daytime and evening schedule is outlined below.

(click on photos to get a larger image):

About the Seminar:

gor I. Sikorsky is best known for his pioneering work with the development of the helicopter in the late 1930's through the 40's. He was the chief designer, engineer, test pilot, pilot instructor, and trouble shooting mechanic. This accomplishment was made in the face of enormous skepticism from the ever-present 'nay say-ers' and took more than two years before any successes were made. There were numerous design changes, engineering dead ends and life threatening crashes that he endured to reach his lifelong goal.

Less known, however, is his earlier work with the large amphibians of the 1930’s which opened up the world to commercial aviation. Beginning in the mid 20's he designed five flying boat aircraft that went into major commercial production. The largest of these was capable of carrying 40 passengers across the Pacific in first class comfort. Note the Golden Gate Bridge under construction in the background of the photo at right.

His career began in pre-revolutionary Russia where he built the world’s first multi-engine aircraft and many other significant accomplishments. His first attempt at a helicopter proved to be thirty years too soon (see photo below). He designed and built the largest aircraft in WWI and more than one hundred were employed in reconnaissance and aerial combat against enemy forces. His efforts significantly affected the eventual success of the eastern front. For his accomplishments he was personally awarded a gold watch by Czar Nicholas II.

"Rare is the man of vision whose dreams become a reality. Rarer still is one whose vision brings a better life to others while fulfilling his own.”

SEMINAR ITINERARY

uests are welcome to browse the aviation library during the day which includes videos, books, artifacts and photos. A Saturday speaker will be announced. Other activities include: fishing and fly fishing, kayaking, relaxing on the porches with a good book, and hiking. Guides can be arranged for fishing, a moose watch, and sporting clays. Our meals are excellently prepared and served to your private table in our handsome lodge. The lectures will be given by his son, grandson and other members of the immediate family.

Friday: Arrive at camp by driving or by float plane service (we can help with arrangements) between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm. Books, historical videos, and artifacts will be available through the day. Settle in and enjoy your cabin and the lake through the afternoon. After the 6:00 dinner we will begin the seminar with a the first half of the slide show and lecture in our lodge.

Saturday: Rise at your leisure, breakfast will be served until 8:00. The library and videos will be available for researching through the day as well as the Sikorsky artifacts and photos. Seaplane rides will be given by Igor I. Sikorsky, III to anyone interested. An afternoon guest speaker will be announced. Otherwise, the day is at your disposal with plenty to keep you busy on the lake and trails around Munsungun. Guided parties will have a personally tailored trip. Lunch is provided for all in our lodge or a packed picnic if you prefer. Dinner again at 6:00 and afterward we will conclude the slide show and lecture.

Sunday: Rise at your leisure with breakfast served until 8:00. Guests are welcome to stay through the mid-afternoon and enjoy the surroundings. The library is open and guided trips are also an option.

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