1956 Don C. Stevens Mid-Air Glider Pickup Attempt Press Photo – United Press Telephoto, Escondido CA

This original United Press Telephoto press photograph, dated April 20, 1956, captures legendary glider stunt champion Don C. Stevens seated in the cockpit of a sleek, high-performance sailplane in Escondido, California.

The image was released in connection with Stevens’ ambitious plan to execute the first-ever mid-air glider pickup, an experimental technique designed to extend the operational range of gliders without the need for traditional runway launches.

Known for holding the world record of 116 consecutive loops, Stevens brought both technical skill and daring showmanship to the project. He partnered with electrical engineering technician Charles Webber, who developed a specialized tow method intended to revolutionize long-range glider operations.

The photograph features:

• Striking detail of the glider’s streamlined nose cone and cockpit canopy

• Stevens in confident, ready-to-launch pose, enhancing the narrative appeal

• The integrated typewritten press caption, describing the innovation and its years of planning

This is a visually powerful and historically significant artifact of mid-century American aeronautical experimentation, making it ideal for collectors of aviation history, glider memorabilia, or postwar technological innovation.

Key Features:

• Date: April 20, 1956

• Location: Escondido, California

• Subject: Don C. Stevens, glider trick champion & world record holder

• Event: Planned first mid-air glider pickup attempt

• Photographer/Agency: United Press Telephoto

• Medium: Original vintage black-and-white press photograph with integrated typewritten caption

• Condition: Excellent clarity and tonal range; light edge wear from editorial handling