Description

Experimental research hydrofoil watercraft HD-4 during test off Cape Breton Island. An oval head shot of Alexander Graham Bell is inserted upper left. Original Print Numbers: S271048 (insert), S27149.

Original Caption: "(First Photo)".

Original Caption: "Dr. Bell, inventor of telephone, with his new speed flying boat. Dr. Alexander Graham Bell's 'H.O.4' flying boat on a trial run. The boat is capable of making 71 miles per hour. It is equipped with two 400 H.P. Liberty Motors. The boat has a series of blade forward and aft, and on each side under the so-called-wings. Nine of these blades are used in each place. As the boat gains speed the action of the water raises it so that when travelling over 60 miles an hour, the boat is practically soaring over the water. In other words the boat at top speed is travelling on the last set of blades and the body is about four feet from the tops of the waves. There is no vibration or lurching about as is the case with a sea sled. In fact, one could enjoy a meal while travelling at full speed. The phooto was taken off Cape Bretton Island, Canada. Insert, Dr. Alexander Graham Bell, the inventor of the telephone, who has now taken to speed boats to try his genius on."