At age eight, Edgar Schmued first saw an aeroplane in flight and decided that aviation was to be his life's work. Edgar embarked on a rigorous program of self study to become an engineer, and later served an apprenticeship in a small engine factory. He also designed several innovative engine components for which he received patents. In his spare time he continued the self study of aviation. His experience in Germany led to employment with the General Motors Corporation in Brazil, and later with a General Motors subsidiary in the United States, the Fokker Aeroplane Company, where he began his career as an aeroplane design engineer. In 1935, North American Aviation was formed in Los Angeles, California. The talented and inventive Schmued, by now a citizen of the United States, was employed by North American as a preliminary design engineer and later became chief of Preliminary Design. During his long tenure at North American, he contributed greatly to the design of many aeroplanes. By far his most famous design was the highly succcssful P-51 Mustang of World War II. His adaptation of the then new laminar flow wing and other innovations made the P-51 performance outstanding in all respects and its flying qualities superb. This aircraft was still winning races and setting speed records for piston engine-powered aeroplanes decades after its production had ended.
Inducted in 1991.
Portrait Location: Not Currently on Floor