Aviator (1897–1991) chosen to pilot the Boston, one of four Douglas World Cruisers attempting the first round-the-world flight. The planes left Seattle, flew to Alaska and crossed the Pacific to the Orient. From India, they flew to the Middle East, Europe and England. En route to Iceland, the Boston was forced down on the Atlantic. Wade and his co-pilot later rejoined the flight in Nova Scotia in the Boston II, which ended successfully at Seattle. Four items: ALS,signed “Leigh Wade,” one page both sides, 4 x 6, personal letterhead, October, 1987. Letter to a collector reads, in part: “Jim Doolittle are [sic] close friends. Knew Lindberg [sic] and helped. Also Mrs. Lindberg [sic]. Helped on his chart of his course & to get all his instruments…all checked.” Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, with an additional notation by Wade on the front; an FDC with a cachet of the Spad XIII, signed and inscribed in blue felt tip; a commemorative cover with a cachet honoring Eddie Rickenbacker, signed and inscribed in blue ballpoint; and a 2 x 2 swatch of original fabric from the Chicago, the first of the Douglas World Cruisers to complete the round-the-world flight. Matted and framed to an overall size of 16.75 x 20.75. In overall fine condition. RR Auction COA.
