This archive photograph captures a Bell HTL-6 / Bell 47-family U.S. Navy trainer in a clean side view on a 1955 flight line. The exposed tail structure, bubble canopy, skid gear, and military insignia give you a strong early-rotorcraft reference image with real period context preserved on the reverse.
The handwritten back caption identifies the scene as Bell HTL-6 & 47J on Hornet Flt. Line / 1955. The HTL designation was used by the U.S. Navy for Bell 47-family helicopters before the 1962 tri-service redesignation system. A smaller helicopter appears in the distance, adding depth and extra Bell-history interest to the composition.
From the Jeffrey C. Evans Helicopter Archive Estate. Evans was a respected helicopter historian, researcher, photographer, and co-author of The Bell 47 Helicopter Story. This provenance connects the piece to a focused aviation-history collection while the exact subject details remain grounded in the visible photograph and archive documentation.
Overall good display condition with light handling creases and a more noticeable wrinkle or moisture-like disturbance on the reverse. The affected area has a rippled/glossy appearance and may create slight distortion under angled light. Handwritten identification remains present on the back. No major tear is visible. Please review all photos carefully as they show the exact piece you will receive.
| Subject | Bell HTL-6 / Bell 47-series U.S. Navy training helicopter |
| Date / Era | 1955 |
| Format | Black-and-white photographic print |
| Paper / Material | Glossy/semi-gloss photographic paper |
| Measurements | Approx. 8 x 10 in. |
| Provenance | Jeffrey C. Evans Helicopter Archive Estate |
| Custom SKU | PHO-FLDH1-BZBZ |
Ships free with tracked shipping and careful protective packing. This physical archive photograph will be packed flat between rigid protection to help it arrive ready for display, collecting, or reference use.
You are purchasing the exact archive piece shown. Photos are part of the description and show the visible markings, paper type, included details, and condition.
1955 handwritten reverse identification
A strong addition for aviation historians, modelers, rotorcraft collectors, and focused archive displays.
Secure this piece for your collection while it is available.