American Cirrus Engines, Inc.

American Cirrus Engines, Inc. was incorporated in 1928 in Delaware, but was located in Belleville, New Jersey. The company was the American arm of Cirrus Aero-Engines Limited, a British aircraft engine manufacturer, known for their line of four-cylinder air-cooled vertical inline engines for general aviation use. The company traded between 1927 and 1931.

In 1930, American Cirrus Engines organized the All-America Flying Derby, the longest air race ever held in this or any other country. The company sponsored the event to demonstrate the possibilities of long-distance flight by light airplanes. One requirement for entry was that the aircraft had to be powered with an American Cirrus or American Ensign upright or inverted inline engine. The 5,541-mile race presented all the weather and terrain difficulties of flying that would be found within the USA.

Cities designated as mandatory overnight control stops were Buffalo, New York, Cincinnati, Little Rock, Houston, San Angelo, Douglas, Los Angeles, Ogden, Lincoln, Chicago, and final stop Detroit. Lee Gehlbach, the winner, flew a specially-built Command-Aire, and averaged a speed of 127.11 mph.

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Certificate: Class B Stock Certificate, issued in the 1920’s

Printer: American Bank Note Company

Dimensions: 7 3/4” (h) x 11 1/4” (w)

State: NJ-New Jersey

Subject Matter: Aviation and Aerospace

Vignette Topic(s): None

Condition: Vertical fold lines, no cancels, staple markings, and some toning and edge faults from age.