Turner, Roscoe, 1895-1970
Dates
- Existence: 1895 - 1970
Biographical Note
Roscoe Turner (1895-1970) was an American aviator, barnstormer, and businessman.
Roscoe Turner was born on September 29, 1895 in Corinth, Mississippi. When American entered into World War I, he enlisted as an ambulance driver and was soon accepted as a flying cadet to train as a balloon pilot. He briefly served in France and Germany before his honorable discharge in 1919.
Upon his stateside return, Turner began barnstorming in October 1919 where Turner became known for his appearance. In 1924, he established the Roscoe Turner Flying Circus. In early 1929, Turner became the chief pilot for Nevada Airlines. He participated in numerous National Air Races in the 1930s and was a three-time Thompson Trophy winner. In 1948, he founded Turner Airlines, which became Lake Central Airlines in 1950. Turner continued to be active in aspects of aviation throughout his life.
Roscoe Turner died on June 23, 1970.
Occupations
Found in 2 Collections and/or Records:
Elrey B. Jeppesen Papers
The Elrey B. Jeppesen Papers documents the career and personal life of aviator and aerial navigation pioneer Elrey B. Jeppesen. This collection is comprised of textual, visual, and audiovisual materials created and collected by EBJ and his wife and business partner, Nadine Audrey (Liscomb) Jeppesen. The documents date from 1843-1996, with the bulk of the material dating from 1940-1979.
William L. Smith Aviation Collection
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