Roberts, Vern, 1896-1953

Fargo, N.D. native, born 1896, served in World War I as a flight instructor, later a regional stunt flyer. Moved to Moline, Illinois where he was a test pilot for Mono Aircraft and later manager of Moline Airport. Died there in 1953.

A famous stunt aviator, Vern Roberts' career began as a pilot instructor in the Army Air Corps. during World War I. After the war, Roberts was involved in formation the Reineke Aircraft Company with Earl Reineke, was present during the first air mail delivery from St. Paul, Minnesota to Fargo, then to Winnipeg, Manitoba, was credited with starting the Hector Airport in Fargo, flew for the Fargo Aero Club, and was involved in many races and programs between 1928 and 1933, including the National Air Races in Chicago in 1930. Roberts was a test pilot for Mono Aircraft Corporation, became manager of the Moline Airport, and general manager for Moline Air Service in Illinois. Roberts associated with many early aviators, including: Col. Charles A. Lindbergh, J. Earl Fladeland, Jack Williams, J.E. Donaldson, Charles Collins, Dr. Lorne McConnell, Stan McClennand, Lieutenant H. H. Ogden, Charles W. Myers, Tex Rankin, John Livingston, Mayor Webb, L. A. Ward, Murray A. Baldwin, G. N. Powell, Mayor J. H. Dahl, George Dahl, and Leslie Miller. Verne's parents, Charles A. and Matilda Roberts, were among the first settlers of Fargo, Dakota Territory.

Fargo native, born 1896, served in World War I as a flight instructor, regional barnstormer. Moved to Moline, Illinois where he was a test pilot for Mono Aircraft and later manager of Moline Airport. Died there in 1953.