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Author
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Topic: Researching wood propeller ex Deke Slayton
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SClarkson
Member Posts: 23
From: Fairfield,
Registered: Sep 2012
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posted 08-04-2019 08:40 PM
   
I purchased the wood propeller offered in the July 2019 Goldberg's auction. This propeller belonged to Deke Slayton and was previously on display at the Astronaut Hall of Fame. I recall seeing it on display several years ago but can't find a photograph with the description. Does anyone recall the story behind this propeller and why it was originally placed on display? Thanks.From the auction catalog: Sensenich Wood Propeller 54", From the Personal Property of Deke Slayton.A finely crafted wood propeller manufactured in Lancaster, PA. Minor evidence of use on the propeller: a ding to one edge (smaller than a dime) and two slight scorch marks near core. Propeller would make for a striking display wall piece with the craftsmanship very much apparent. 54" x 6 x 5" |
Robert Pearlman
Editor Posts: 42981
From: Houston, TX
Registered: Nov 1999
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posted 08-04-2019 09:25 PM
This doesn't help with a description, but the propeller appears in this photo of its former display. |
oly
Member Posts: 905
From: Perth, Western Australia
Registered: Apr 2015
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posted 08-05-2019 05:02 AM
Continuing to read the description on the Barnebys' auction website reveals that "While on exhibit at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, no one seemed to know why it was in Slayton's possession."Deke was involved in air racing, perhaps this prop came from his race plane? Details of his race plane can be found in this document. Sensinich props could tell you what engine the prop was designed to fit by the numbers found on the prop hub, which may reveal that the prop suits the same engine type as Deke's plane (while this will not prove the prop history, it may help). Some additional information about Deke's aircraft cane be found here. |
Joel Katzowitz
Member Posts: 808
From: Marietta GA USA
Registered: Dec 1999
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posted 08-05-2019 08:36 AM
Sandy, I looked through my copy of Slayton's Astronaut Hall of Fame artifact inventory list (dated 10-26-89) but didn't find the propeller. My list pertains to the original incarnation of the AHOF (Mercury Astronauts) so the propeller must have been procured during the re-design to accommodate the Gemini induction or later.I know this info probably doesn't help much, sorry. |
SClarkson
Member Posts: 23
From: Fairfield,
Registered: Sep 2012
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posted 08-05-2019 09:57 AM
Thanks for the information everyone. and Robert — thanks for the photo. I have a similar one but didn't capture the description of the propeller. I bought it because it looks cool but as always knowing the story makes it more interesting. |
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