Flying Boat/Seaplane of the Week: Spencer-Larsen SL-12C Amphibian NX-20621
Our first Seaplane of the Week is an experimental monoplane amphibian built by Percival Spencer and engineer Vincent Larsen in a factory in Farmingdale in May 1938. These images of the Spencer-Larsen SL-12 C amphibian have been provided by the Beutenmuller Family Collection, the Cradle of Aviation and various aviation websites.
Be Safe, Stay Healthy, Save Lives,
Howard Kroplick
Background Information
A historical "resume" written by Percival "Spence" Spencer. Courtesy of shu-aero.com .
Source: American Flying Boats and Amphibious Aircraft by E.R. Johnson
From the Beutenmuller Family Collection
These photos were taken the the Port Washington base in June 1938. It was piloted by founder Percival Spencer.
The NX designation indicated the seaplane was experimental.
The design and look of this seaplane appears 20 years ahead of its time.
From the Cradle of Aviation
Location is Roosevelt Field
At the end of this news clip, Percival "Spence" Spencer can be seen wearing a suit next to his seaplane.
From Criticalpast.com
A seaplane lands on water at Port Washington in New York, United States. It reaches the shore and moves toward the hangar. Motor in the hull of the plane is connected by special gears to a propeller above the plane. Landing gear of plane has a unique design. Location: New York United States. Date: November 23, 1938.
More information on Spencer (right) can be found at Seebee People.
Comments
A comprehensive profile of Percival Spencer has been added to the post.
Grew up with Seabees (Repubic, that is) on LI’s South Shore and in the Adirondacks and Canada but had forgotten all about the S-L! Thanks muchly. That float-cum-gear is wild! Looks like I’m a’gonna love this new deviation (flight?) from the LIMP/VCR. Off to North Beach (Marine Air Terminal) after Port? I’m “into” flying boats (along with so much else!). Sam, III
I like it this concept of unortodox reusing of floats.