Voisin

Designed by Gabriel and Charles Voisin of France, this aircraft type became a popular sight at aerial demonstration meets around the globe. Despite its marginal handling, the Voisin set many records, and is largely responsible for creating an interest in aviation among Europeans. Aircraft designer Henry Farman, (responsible for the Farman observation aircraft of World War I), had his earliest flight experiences in Voisin aircraft. Perhaps the most famous man to ever fly a Voisin was the world-renowned escape artist and magician, Harry Houdini, who became the first recorded pilot to successfully fly an aircraft in Australia.

The Museum’s Voisin is an original aircraft built in 1909 by Norvin C. Rinek of Easton, PA. Rinek incorporated many unique and practical ideas of his own in the construction of the aircraft. Although this machine outwardly appears similar to Voisin’s construction, it differs in many ways. Most notably, Rinek became the first to utilize a chrome-moly welded steel tube structure in place of the standard wooden airframe. He also designed and built his own V-8 engine which he later developed and produced for sale to other aircraft owners.

This aircraft is believed to have flown up to six times before being disassembled and stored in Rinek’s Cord and Rope Company rafters in 1910. It remained there for 62 years when it was acquired by Cole Palen for the Rhinebeck collection. Restoration took place in Florida in 1973, and the aircraft was displayed at Rhinebeck until 1979. At this time, the Voisin was loaned to the National Air and Space Museum in Washington where it appeared in the Hall of Early flight for several years. From there it was moved to the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum aircraft carrier for display. The Voisin has made its way back home to the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome where it remains a valuable piece of early aviation history.

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