1927 Hearst Fokker Old Glory Refueling – Pre-Flight to Rome – Old Orchard Beach Press Photo

Original 1927 International Newsreel press photograph of the Hearst-owned Fokker F.VII Old Glory being refueled at Old Orchard Beach, Maine, prior to its historic – and ultimately tragic – attempt to fly from the U.S. to Rome. The image captures mechanics working on the plane’s radial engine and refueling from large barrels, while the American flag is visible under the wing. The verso carries the original press caption slip, identifying the event, location, and noting journalist Phil Payne as a passenger. The Old Glory would disappear over the Atlantic shortly after takeoff, making this an especially poignant relic of early transatlantic aviation.

• Date: September 6, 1927

• Photographer: International Newsreel

• Aircraft: Fokker F.VII Old Glory

• Size: Approx. 8" x 10"

• Condition: Very good, light handling wear, crisp image, complete caption slip on reverse

• Provenance: Original vintage press photo, not a reproduction

An evocative and historically important image for collectors of early aviation, Fokker aircraft memorabilia, and transatlantic flight history.