The ENGINES were ROLLS-ROYCE
An informal history of that famous company
Signed by RW Harker OBE
Presentation inscription from
Ronald Harker to Air Cdre Rod Banks
Rod, Best wishes & happy memories of our
association with the old ‘Firm’. Ronnie
Macmillan Publishing Co First edition 1979. 202 pages and well illustrated with photographs.
A Fine condition hardback book in two-tone mustard and maroon covers in a Fine condition unclipped dustjacket. A smart copy in all respects. There is a small note on the title page initialled FRB (Francis Rodwell Banks) about corrections on pages 34 &70.
This book is an informal history of Rolls-Royce by the company’s first test pilot best known as “the man who put the Merlin in the Mustang.” He was with the company from 1925 until its tragic bankruptcy in 1971 and tells the whole dramatic story of this unique enterprise covering both automotive manufacture and aero engines.
Air Cdre ‘Rod’ Banks is mentioned a few times and appears in the acknowledgements. He is known for his work on engine development and particularly for his work on the special racing fuels which powered the Rolls-Royce engines used by the Schneider Trophy winning Supermarine seaplanes in 1929 and 1931.
An absorbing read with plenty of famous names scattered through the narrative – Harker seems to have known everyone! Enhanced by a great association inscription.