Boing Boing stumbled across this fascinating look at the future of helicopters from an 1951 issue of Mechanics Illustrated. All these babies required to operate was a single seat, small motor and, naturally, a penis.
But really, should we expect anything less from the era? Look as Betty and little Tim bid daddy a fond morning farewell. His day is just getting started as he primes the motor and lifts off, dressed in his finest double breasted flight suit and matching fedora helmet. However, Betty is showing off a little too much leg in this picture, if you ask me.
In the background, Mailman Jim drops off a bundle for Missy, who will sort it and make sure all the proper letters and bills are laid out in exactly the right place for husband Bob when he gets home.
Here's the original article blurb, which just reeks of safety issues and looming life insurance claims (no wonder the wife is smiling):
"The third model has corrected some of the above mentioned faults. The engine now is slung under the seat directly beneath the center of gravity. This warms the pilot in cold air and improves the machine’s balance. The model at present is being tested. There still remains, however, the sense of insecurity—of riding a flying swivel chair with no visible means of support. Pentecost and his associates are perfectly well aware of this natural reaction and have planned a weatherproof enclosure for the machine."
[Modern Mechanix via Boing Boing]