H.P. Nielsen
Hans Peter Nielsen (May 21, 1859 – September 11, 1945) was a Danish-born American machinist, mechanic, engineer, fireman, and inventor who lived most of his life in Alameda, California. In 1910 Nielsen built the first biplane in Alameda, commissioned by Adrian J Merle. An early adopter of automobile technology, he also believed in the potential represented by aviation.
Mr. Nielsen announces that there is no question to be raised against his prognostication that in a few years aeroplane parties will be common. He states that by the time of the Pacific-Panama exposition in San Francisco, many of the now motor enthusiasts will fly to San Francisco in their ships of the air. He believes that the exposition authorities will provide landing places for their aerial guests.
— "Airship Shop For This City", Times-Star (1910-01-24)
H. P. Nielsen | |
|---|---|
| Born | 21 May 1859 Denmark |
| Died | 11 September 1945 (aged 86) |
| Resting place | Grave at Mountain View Cemetery, Oakland, California |
| Citizenship | Danish (1859-1892) American (1892-death) |
| Occupation(s) | Firefighter Engineer Inventor Mechanic Machinist |
| Employer(s) | Self Alameda Fire Department Municipal Electric Light Plant HP Nielsen & Son |
| Known for | Building the first biplane in Alameda, California in 1910 |
| Spouses | Hansine Christine (m. 1883)Lilly Palmer (m. 1933) |
| Children | 4 |
| Signature | |
| Notes | |
Nielsen was also a firefighter who innovated several firefighting devices, and was the first engineer at the Alameda Electric Light Plant. As a prominent member of the Alameda community his activities were frequently covered in local newspapers, often under the misspelling "Nielson."