From 1919 to 1927 Charles Kinsford Smith performed at aerial circuses and pioneered commercial aviation service throughout Australia. In 1927, he went to the United States to purchase and prepare a Fokker Trimotor aircraft that he named the Southern Cross. On May 31, 1928, Kingsford Smith and his crew took off from Oakland, California, and arrived in Brisbane via Honolulu and Fiji eight days later. In November 1935, on a flight from England to Australia, he and his companion disappeared in typhoon weather over the Bay of Bengal. Vintage 14 x 11 photo of C. P. Ulm and Smith, signed and inscribed in fountain pen on the photographer's mount, 'To C. C. Maidment from 'Smithy' and 'Charles' C. P. Ulm,' and 'C. Kingsford Smith 1928.' In very good condition, with light creasing to inscription, separation to right edge of photographer's mount and scattered light soiling, none affecting image and signatures. RRAuction COA.
