Rutland, Vermont – September 2, 1930
On September 2, 1930, Mr. and Mrs. William Vaughan and their friend, Howard Chandler, were traveling in an automobile headed to the Rutland Fair when a hot air balloon suddenly crash-landed on their car, caving in the roof, and seriously injuring the occupants. The balloon was part of an act being performed at the fair, when for some reason it rapidly deflated and fell five-thousand feet before striking the auto.
There was no word on any occupants of the balloon.
Source: New York Times, “Balloon Drops On Auto”, September 3, 1930.
Updated April 12, 2017
The accident occurred around 3 p.m. The balloon had been used by DeForriest Dickinson, 21, a parachute jumper performing at the Rutland Fair. Dickinson’s act involved his being launched from a cannon suspended from the balloon while 5,000 feet above the ground. After leaving the cannon, Dickinson dropped for 1,200 feet before his parachute deployed. Upon landing he narrowly missed some electrical wires near a railroad track before alighting safely on South Main Street.
Meanwhile, his balloon lost its buoyancy and fell rapidly, crash-landing on top of the automobile occupied by the Vaughan’s, Mr. Chandler, his wife, and their 9-year-old son Russell. The balloon reportedly weighted more than 100 pounds, and when it hit, it completely enveloped the car. The impact took place at Strongs Avenue and South Main Street. Fortunately, Mr. Chandler, who was driving, was able to bring the vehicle to a safe stop, thus avoiding a greater accident.
Source: Rutland Herald, “Autoist Injured, 4 Endangered By Falling Balloon”, September 3, 1930. Article supplied by Mr. Brian Lindner, Vermont Avation Historian.