H. G. Hawker, airman: his life and work

Chapter 7: CHAPTER II

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About This Book

The biography traces the life of an early aviator who develops mechanical skill in youth, manages motor fleets, and pursues a passion for flying that leads him from home to England and to the Brooklands scene. It recounts trials and successes in design and flight, early employment and financial struggles, and his refusal to abandon hazardous work despite family responsibilities. Interwoven are personal recollections from his widow, portraying a modest, optimistic, generous character with occasional irritability and lax financial habits, and the technical, social, and emotional contexts of pioneering aviation. The narrative combines chronological chapters, eyewitness anecdotes, and illustrative photographs to convey both career milestones and private temperament.

CHAPTER II

THE BRITISH DURATION RECORD

Harry’s Aversion to Publicity—Circumstances of His First Brooklands Associations—The Sopwith-Burgess-Wright Biplane—Harry’s Effort in a Quick-starting Competition—Beating His Employer—Early Attempts for Michelin Laurels—A Real Success—Tuning-up for the Duration Record—Raynham Makes a Race—And Secures an Advantage—Raynham Lands after 7 hours 31½ minutes—And Holds the Record for an Hour or Two—Opportunity Knocks at Harry’s Door—And is Well Received—Harry Lands after 8 hours 23 minutes—To Him the Spoils—His Own Account of the Experience—A Reminiscence of Cody—The Significance of Harry’s Achievement—Other Flights at Brooklands—The Growth of a Pioneer Firm.