Building Airships and Flying-Machines, by G. H . Curtiss. [at Bizarre Stuff.]

In building an airship, it is well to first determine the weight of the frame, propellers, engine, controlling mechanism and operator; then build, or purchase, the gas bag, of proper dimensions and sufficient capacity to lift the desired weight, together with a reasonable amount of ballast, which in a one-man outfit should be about 50 lb. Experience has taught us that a 7-hp. engine driving a suitable propeller will furnish sufficient pull to drive a one-man airship as fast as it can be readily controlled.

The casual reader may wish to note that Mr. Curtiss is less noted for his contributions to lighter-than-air aviation than for his distinguished contributions to powered flight.