Raw Fuselage Framework (1927)

The raw, completed tubular steel fuselage framework of the Spirit of St. Louis resting on wooden sawhorses outside the Ryan Airlines factory building. — Raw Fuselage Framework (1927) · Donald A. Hall Estate Collection

A brilliant behind-the-scenes engineering photograph from 1927. Donald A. Hall Sr. captured the completed, bare tubular steel framework of the Spirit of St. Louis resting outside the factory, showcasing the exact layout and fresh welding marks of his rapid 60-day design.