Whenever a student tells me he does not like history, I respond “Then, you have never had a good history teacher nor read a good history book. History is about storytelling and who doesn’t like a good story?” You, sir, are a great storyteller!
This is the rugged American individualism I want to believe in. Look at the smile on his face, dude was high on life and didn't let anyone get in the way. Godspeed you magnificent bastard.
I remember my Irish Canadian grandfather telling me the story of ‘Wrong Way Corrigan’ with a twinkle in his eyes. He well knew Corrigan deliberately flew to Dublin. He was delighted the mischievous Corrigan got away with it and was celebrated as a result. Thanks for reviving that story.
This one hits home for me! When I was 17 I was working on my pilots license. In December of that year, I was in a severe car accident and was blinded on one eye. I never returned to finish my license. In 2017 at the age of 46, I went back and started my training over. I got my pilots license that summer, bought an airplane, and now fly my wife and kids all over the country on little weekend adventures!
When I flew to England(London Heathrow) the second time, I asked at check-in to send one bag to Gatwick, and have my second bag left at JFK, and sent on a week later. The clerk told me they couldn't do that. I said "Why not!??! It's exactly what you did last time!!"
I absolutely LOVE this story. Sadly, when I was young and in Tennessee public elementary/middle schools they taught us that Carrigan flew the wrong way as a result of an accident of ignorance. It wasn't until I was in my teens/early 20s I learned the real story, the one in which you have enriched with even more fact.
Having been raised by parents who were born and raised in Brooklyn (and of Irish decent) I grew up hearing either my Mom or Dad occasionally using the term "wrong way corrigan' and never thought to ask what it meant! Now, at the age of 59, I know :-) Thank you!
My grandmother (b.1906) and mother (b. 1933) both used that "wrong way corrigan" expression, notably when my brother & I occasionally sent the ball in the wrong direction on the soccer field. One of us also earned the "shoeless joe" moniker when kicking off a cleat while booting the ball during a youth game in the 80s.
When I was a young boy in the late 1950s, my grandparents had Corrigan's book, "That's My Story" on the bookshelf in their living room. With their permission, I borrowed and read it, and found it to be a fun adventure. For the last many years, that same book has been on my bookshelf, and I have read it again. It is still a fun read, and I still admire his determination and sense of fun and adventure.
After reading Corrigan's book, as a young girl I decided to learn to fly. Became the first female pilot in IL without driver license. Which I got two years after flying so l could drive to the airport.
Funny you should make that reference. To me, Bugs represented a certain American quality...that combination of humor, brains, attitude, mixed with a sarcastic view of authority...that Corrigan also seems to reflect.
Well yes, I did enjoy this video. My dad was born in southern California, in the middle of a lot of the movie-making and aviation atmosphere. He knew all about Wrong Way Corrigan and would tell about him now and then. I wish today's young people had a historical atmosphere they could relate to like that. Rather than all the bad language, odd body ornamentation, etc.
I just finished watching a vlog by a sailing family and they told of their determination to make their dreams come true. After that, I saw your video and, always enjoying the story of Corrigan, I clicked on it. Your closing line hit me between the eyes. Twice in 15 minutes two people from vastly different areas told me directly to go fulfill my dreams. Man. Someone is trying to get my attention.
I met Mr. Wrong Way Corrigan around 1982 (give or take) at a speaking engagement at "The Cradle of Aviation Museum" at Mitchell Field on Long Island NY. He told his story of his fights with the CAA (I think it was the CAA) and the flight and he still insisted that he meant to fly to California. But he said it with just a slight, but unmistakable, bit of sarcasm and a smirk each time he repeated it when someone would push him "no really, you knew". It was the best memory of my time volunteering at the museum restoring a/c.
Corrigan is from Galveston, where we have an airport with a runway as long as Houston Hobby's, but no regular commercial flights. He's still remembered here.
Singer Barry White, Gail Borden(Borden's Milk), the island was home to Akokisa and Karankawa Indians, who were Canibals, William Lewis Moody Jr., who founded a private bank, an insurance company, and one of the largest charitable foundations in the United States. French explorer Robert de La Salle landed here in the late 1600s and claimed it for King Louis (naming the area St. Louis). Galveston’s first European settler was French privateer (i.e. pirate) Jean Lafitte, who built a small community on Galveston Island called Campeche. Built in 1817, the community was used for years as a base from which he raided the Spanish merchant ships that traveled through the Gulf. In fact, since Lafitte was forced to leave the island, burning the town down behind him, his treasures are still rumored to be buried somewhere on the island. During Prohibition, it was like, the Atlantic City of the Gulf Coast due to Gambling, Casinos, Dance, Dinner Halls. But this era came to an end in 1957 when the Texas Rangers raided the city and ended gambling in Galveston. 'The Balinese Room, with brilliant views of the beach and Gulf of Mexico, extended 600 feet out into the water, was home to 'world-class entertainers', stars like Frank Sinatra, Duke Ellington, Groucho Marx(Brothers), Bob Hope, Jack Benny, George Burns and Gracie Allen, Mel Torme, Jayne Mansfield, and Gene Autry performed at the club. 'Frank Chalfant writes in Galveston: Island of Chance. “Sam became good friends with and booked all the big names in the entertainment business. It is my heartfelt opinion that Sam Maceo was to Galveston what Steve Wynn is to Las Vegas today.” 'Patrons of the private club included Howard Hughes, Sophie Tucker, and Oil Barons.' 'The Balinese is featured in pop culture; Rock group ZZ Top, Houston, wrote and performed a song about the club called, "Balinese." 'From the 1920s to 1950s, Galveston was a gambling oasis.'
@@Brucev7 Thanks for that info and trivia....I had no idea! And let's not forget Glenn Campbell's song "Galveston" ;-) ruclips.net/video/qBLboy3aXA0/видео.html
I remember the character of Wrong Way Feldman (Hans Conrid)from Gilligan's Island. That caused me to seek out the real individual . I met him in 1985-6 . He would love to share his stories. He gave me an autographed copy of his book 1st edition. He was the first person to ever let me fly a Cessna!
The Canadian Forces Air Navigation School had an award named for Corrigan, given to graduating students who had taken their aircraft the furthest off track from the intended route, but still passed the training. Great telling of this story!
Once a particular aircraft or vehicle gets it's hooks into your heart, there's no getting off. I've seen that same look on the faces of many a WW2 veteran pilot when they've been reintroduced to the aircraft they flew in the war. On a tank restoration show they rebuilt a M18 TD and managed to track down the original tank commander, he was still alive and lived not far from the workshop. The smile on his face when he saw his old tank was incredible. He scrambled up into the turret like he was 60yrs younger, no help needed, and just yelled "FASTER, FASTER!!" when they took him for a spin around the carpark. Had tears in my eyes when I watched that, and do again remembering it. Thanks for all the great stories, and RIP to all those characters who made those stories possible. The world is lessened by your passing.
Heard of Corrigan, but never knew the full story. Admirable telling, and as the late Paul Harvey would say, "And now you know." Keep 'em coming as we all look forward to 'em.
History you can't live without: If history were taught in this way, many more people would be a lot better informed about a wealth of topics. History gives people an "anchor" on which to rest their intellect. I always enjoy the stories.......... Suggestion: could you please look into the possibility of telling stories of related attacks by the Japanese on December 7, 1941. We have a great one here in Hilo Hawaii. The details are little bit foggy in old timers' memories, but the true story goes: a Japanese submarine surfaced outside Hilo Harbor sometime during the morning of December 7, 1941. Its target was the iron works in town and possibly a military barracks/ hospital nearby which still exists as a public elementary school. This certainly sounds like, "History that deserves to be remembered.......". Please keep up the good work as always. Thank you very much. Aloha and Mahalo!
As a young lad I was given a book on aviation stories. "Wrong Way" Corrigan was one I remember, along with others. Like Kingsford Smith, a marine Colonel named Rankin, (who ejected from a F8 Crusader into a thunderstorm.)Also an early woman pilot who flew the Atlantic, only to die performing a loop without being strapped in to her aircraft. Wish I still had the book,(along with about 300 others that got flooded out.)
Thanks for sharing. As an old man I find myself looking back from time to time on what I have done by accident or otherwise. If I was given a mulligan you know darn well I’d have chose a path closer to Corrigan’s. He was one hell of an adventurer and he is someone I’d like to have known.
Love this story, love your telling of Corrigan's story, @History Guy. "Shouldn't we all be that lucky, to discover our life's dream, and to go make it happen? And just not take no for an answer."
I just visited the Planes of Fame Museum in Chino, CA and saw Wrong Way Corrrigan's plane Sunshine! The wings were off to the side but you could see the fuel tanks he installed to "travel across the US to the west coast". The guide told the story and said there were RUclips videos about the man and his plane. Thanks for the history lesson!
All throughput my life , my Dad used the phrase "Wrong Way Corrrigan ! " whenever he wanted to correct what I was doing. I guess I had a vague sense of the story behind it....But never realized what an inspiring , and important character Corrigan was . So great to hear this history!!
When I'd be going the wrong way somewhere, my mama would always call out, "Wrong way, Corrigan!" I say the same thing to my kids and now I know the history behind it! Thanks! 😊
I came across an autograph of his in a local estate auction that he had signed on December 17th of 1989. As soon as I saw what he had signed, it reminded me of this video. A fantastic story if you ask me. Thank you so much for sharing all of these amazing bits of history that really do deserve to be remembered.
Thanks for a great episode. Although I knew of his flight I didn’t know that his “mistake” was most likely intentional. His determination does need to be remembered.
I grew up in a town called Santa Ana, in Orange County, California. Back in the day there really were orange groves scattered all over Orange County, and one of them was next to my old neighborhood. The grove was owned by Wrong Way, and he lived in a house on the property. The rumor that ran amongst us kids was that there was a barn hidden somewhere in the depths of the orange grove where he had stashed his famous old plane, and the double dog dare ya challenge was to be brave enough to sneak in there and find it, if you could avoid getting eaten by the dogs he let run loose. To the best of my knowledge none of us ever actually made the attempt (they were big dogs!), but we all thought it was a pretty special thing to have a guy famous for thumbing his nose at Authority, and getting away with it, living just down the road. He was ‘our’ Wrong Way Corrigan, thanks for shining the spotlight on him once again.
Thank you for your presentation. Wrong Way Corrigan. You had me grinning through most of this story. I like every version of it that I have ever heard . Straight up youthful exuberance. Ain't it strange how a nickname will outlive the character? Enjoy
I've heard of Corrigan all my life but had no idea of the story behind the name. Thank you History Guy for the fascinating tales and for making my life a little brighter.
It's funny but I have lived by the same motto of NOT letting others tell me NO when there was no valid reason for being declined. As long as I wasn't hurting anybody or putting others in danger, I've always thought, "Well, Why NOT?!?" And I'd go on about my way to DO whatever I had in mind. LOL Unlike Mr. Corrigan, I suffered from some of my misadventures; some more than others and the aches and pains I have to this day are the direct result of those wayward frolics. But, MAN! Some of my stories STILL have my hair standing on end just thinking about them. And rubbing the scars. LOL That is one kindred spirit I truly would have loved to have met and shake his hand. May he RIP and, hopefully, find the RIGHT way to Heaven! Thanks to you, THG, for presenting this story for our enjoyment and education. God Bless.
So glad The History Guy covered the story of this man and event. For me, it's always been one of the best stories of the 20th century; no tragedy, no world upheaval, no giant celebrities who lived long in the public eye. Just a plain mischievous guy who believed in himself and wanted to do his thing, in a long-gone age of discovery.
19 years in Thailand I always allow an hour for being lost finding a new place..Now with GPS it's gotten worse..However all the amazing places we find being lost is worth it
@Magyar, you need to have a steaming bowl of rice and Dog Crap and just STFU before some westerner knocks the snot out of you. Oh, and get your ass off of MY planet! You are a fetid disease to all around you. But have yourself a fine day, Sunshine.
This one is close to my heart. I have a copy of the NYT on the date of my birth, with lots of front page news about Howard hughes setting off on his around the world flight. There's also a small article mentioning that a west-coast aviator, anmed Douglas Corrigan, had just arrived at Floyd Bennett Field after completing a non-stop flight from San Diego. The article says that he plans to file a return flight plan in a few days. Little did they know. In ike form to Doug Corrigan, I never took "No" for an answer from all those who said I could never be a pilot. Lack of funds prevented me from taking lessons at Flushing Airport, but after badgering the local recruiter, I got a slot in the Aviation Cadet program and got my AF wings. I flew fighters, and later flew airliners from DC-6 to 747-400. Retired now for many years, I still fly my Socata Trinidad every week...and I will until I can't pass the physical.
I love it. I bought an autographed copy of his book, "That's My Story" at a library fund raiser in the 1970s. I don't believe a word of it, but it sure is fun.
Thanks so much for telling this story. 60 years ago I was a 5 year old in Santa Ana Ca. He was our neighbor across the street. It seemed he was always in his garage. I would go over there and bug him. He was always nice to me, a little kid. He told me stories and just let me hang out. It was really cool to know 'Wrong Way' Corrigan
This was really awesome at 9 and 11 years old I met him multiple times he lived four houses down the street from my grandfather where I spent a lot of my weekends we would ride our bikes over there and talk to him . really thank you for this one had to drive by his house tonight on the way home thanks for those awesome memories and an awesome history as you always tell .
Dear Lance, Thank you so much!! I am ashamed to admit this, but I was granted my pilot's license back in 1980, but never knew the story of Wrong Way Corrigan until now at the tender age of 62. Keep up the great work! Randy Havener
As an avid flight enthusiast, I applaud his audacity and his perseverance. I think the FAA, while generally a plus for Aviation safety, is a costly burden to most pilots not endowed w/ endless finances. Why should only the wealthy get the privilege to fly?
Its much more lax on very small aircraft... (those that do minimal damage) I think in the USA, though required to be tiny, microlight, Ultralight, and such, are the poor-man's plane... much similar in design to the vehicles of the 1920s
I had always been aware of the name 'Wrong Way' Corrigan, but thought it was something made up by the movies. Great to hear there was a real person behind a very well known name.
I knew part of the story but I'm glad you told it again cuz when you think how elaborately Lindbergh planned for his trip and see what wrong way Corrigan did it's kind of interesting he had to have a little bit of luck that's for sure maybe you should do something on Max Conrad I met his grandson at my restaurant in Towanda once
Thanks once again for the great video of someone that was revered by my late father. He was always mentioning his name and his feat of flying to Irland. I never knew his whole story, so thanks again History Guy.
Whenever a student tells me he does not like history, I respond “Then, you have never had a good history teacher nor read a good history book. History is about storytelling and who doesn’t like a good story?” You, sir, are a great storyteller!
Chem trails.
I got no car.
John Palmer You sir are a very bad storyteller.
Did any of your stories involve pirates? 😁
@ great question! The history of Pirates is extremely interesting.
This is the rugged American individualism I want to believe in.
Look at the smile on his face, dude was high on life and didn't let anyone get in the way. Godspeed you magnificent bastard.
@Toughen Up, Fluffy No. He was a latchkey kid. Neaner neaner....
Me too. If it exists there sure aren't many examples of it being touted around today.
it's there, just not in homes with helicopter parents!
@@claytonbouldin9381 stubborn irishman is more like it
Gotta love guys who won't take "no" for an answer!
I remember my Irish Canadian grandfather telling me the story of ‘Wrong Way Corrigan’ with a twinkle in his eyes. He well knew Corrigan deliberately flew to Dublin. He was delighted the mischievous Corrigan got away with it and was celebrated as a result. Thanks for reviving that story.
eyyyy Corrigan is my grandpa
History Guy, you are one of the greats of this era. I hope that you are well remembered in the future, as you are praised by so many of us today.
Even Gilligan's Island paid "tribute" to him with a character named Wrong Way Feldman in their 5th episode.
I was scanning the comments section for mention of this! :)
Rocky and Bullwinkle's show had a Captain Wrongway Peach fuzz, another tribute to the man and his accident.
Richard Scarry has a little mouse flying a red plane in his books named Wrong Way Rodger. This tale might help explain his origins.
Oh wow, you're right, so that's where that character came from. I haven't thought about that since I was a child.
Everything I know about life was learned watching Gilligan's Island.
This one hits home for me! When I was 17 I was working on my pilots license. In December of that year, I was in a severe car accident and was blinded on one eye. I never returned to finish my license. In 2017 at the age of 46, I went back and started my training over. I got my pilots license that summer, bought an airplane, and now fly my wife and kids all over the country on little weekend adventures!
Way to good good buddy! That the American Spirit!!
As an aviation buff i have always loved his story. You told it BRILLIANTLY.
Agreed.
I think you meant,
......YLTNAILLIRB
@@PhilipMReeder , gotcha, took me a couple seconds to get it!
@@dontroutman8232 took me a couple minutes. What a relief.!!!!
@@PhilipMReeder you son of a bitch i sat here for 3 minutes.....
Sounds like my luggage.
I took a flight to Vienna, Austria from California.
My luggage went to Japan.
I guess I had a wrong way cardigan.
Hahahahahah
Dude! That really stunk!
I read this in the tune of Rock n' me by the Steve miller band
When I flew to England(London Heathrow) the second time, I asked at check-in to send one bag to Gatwick, and have my second bag left at JFK, and sent on a week later.
The clerk told me they couldn't do that.
I said "Why not!??! It's exactly what you did last time!!"
@@thefunkosaurus Hahahaha That's a riot.
I absolutely LOVE this story. Sadly, when I was young and in Tennessee public elementary/middle schools they taught us that Carrigan flew the wrong way as a result of an accident of ignorance. It wasn't until I was in my teens/early 20s I learned the real story, the one in which you have enriched with even more fact.
I love your work. As a pilot this one is my favourite, so far.
I started flying after surviving Prostate cancer, been 15 years ago
I really got a kick out of the newspaper headline backwards
Same here, lol 😂 it would be a cool little piece of history to have!
I didnt quite understand why it was backwards... but now I do... thank you !
I guess everybody knew he was pulling the whole world's leg!!!
@@ringo1692 yes
Yes
We need more people like Douglas 'Wrongway' Corrigan. Rest in Peace sir.
I had heard of Corrigan and his "wrong way" flight. And as a typical Irishman he had a good story, well worth retelling.
He could have quoted the Classic Irish response' Who's giving these directions anyway?'
Yeah. This story *deserves* to be remembered. And what a great legacy to leave behind.
"Don't take 'no' for an answer."
Bless him.
Having been raised by parents who were born and raised in Brooklyn (and of Irish decent) I grew up hearing either my Mom or Dad occasionally using the term "wrong way corrigan' and never thought to ask what it meant! Now, at the age of 59, I know :-) Thank you!
Patricia N my dad mentioned him a lot and told us about his adventure. Irish decent, too.
My grandmother (b.1906) and mother (b. 1933) both used that "wrong way corrigan" expression, notably when my brother & I occasionally sent the ball in the wrong direction on the soccer field. One of us also earned the "shoeless joe" moniker when kicking off a cleat while booting the ball during a youth game in the 80s.
I never knew the story behind the phrase either.....who knew🤣
"Wrong Way" Corrigan is one of my heroes, and one of my inspirations to get my pilot's license.
All men die, not all men really live.
or you need to just watch Braveheart@Jon Doe
@@Nick-bn3od I think he's mocking the quote for being overly dramatic and prophetic. You don't have to see braveheart to have that opinion.
Well behaved women rarely make history.
@@dalmatiangirl61 that is because no one ever forgets a nasty biotch... ;)
Sadly, class is not something you can purchase.
When I was a young boy in the late 1950s, my grandparents had Corrigan's book, "That's My Story" on the bookshelf in their living room. With their permission, I borrowed and read it, and found it to be a fun adventure. For the last many years, that same book has been on my bookshelf, and I have read it again. It is still a fun read, and I still admire his determination and sense of fun and adventure.
After reading Corrigan's book, as a young girl I decided to learn to fly. Became the first female pilot in IL without driver license. Which I got two years after flying so l could drive to the airport.
He should have taken a left turn at Albuquerque.
The THG mentioned Bugs Bunny the other day
bahdeepbahdeepbahdeep
I thought it was Albuqoique
He missed that turn because HE NEVER SAW ALBUQUERQUE...😝
Funny you should make that reference. To me, Bugs represented a certain American quality...that combination of humor, brains, attitude, mixed with a sarcastic view of authority...that Corrigan also seems to reflect.
Well yes, I did enjoy this video.
My dad was born in southern California, in the middle of a lot of the movie-making and aviation atmosphere. He knew all about Wrong Way Corrigan and would tell about him now and then.
I wish today's young people had a historical atmosphere they could relate to like that. Rather than all the bad language, odd body ornamentation, etc.
Aviation has always drawn to it the most larger than life characters. He's right up there with the best of them. Great story!
I just finished watching a vlog by a sailing family and they told of their determination to make their dreams come true. After that, I saw your video and, always enjoying the story of Corrigan, I clicked on it. Your closing line hit me between the eyes. Twice in 15 minutes two people from vastly different areas told me directly to go fulfill my dreams. Man. Someone is trying to get my attention.
His name is GOD! He will guide you and protect you; you’re in His hand. Go with joy.
"I knew I should have taken that left at Albuquerque", Bugs Bunny.
That line is a tribute to Corrigan.
"What a maroon!" , Bugs Bunny....
I met Mr. Wrong Way Corrigan around 1982 (give or take) at a speaking engagement at "The Cradle of Aviation Museum" at Mitchell Field on Long Island NY. He told his story of his fights with the CAA (I think it was the CAA) and the flight and he still insisted that he meant to fly to California. But he said it with just a slight, but unmistakable, bit of sarcasm and a smirk each time he repeated it when someone would push him "no really, you knew". It was the best memory of my time volunteering at the museum restoring a/c.
Corrigan is from Galveston, where we have an airport with a runway as long as Houston Hobby's, but no regular commercial flights. He's still remembered here.
Also the birthplace of the first black heavyweight boxing champion, Jack Johnson.
Both bits of info, I didn't know. Thank you both.
Galveston? I was stationed there back in the early '70s....USCG! ;-)
Singer Barry White, Gail Borden(Borden's Milk), the island was home to Akokisa and Karankawa Indians, who were Canibals, William Lewis Moody Jr., who founded a private bank, an insurance company, and one of the largest charitable foundations in the United States.
French explorer Robert de La Salle landed here in the late 1600s and claimed it for King Louis (naming the area St. Louis).
Galveston’s first European settler was French privateer (i.e. pirate) Jean Lafitte, who built a small community on Galveston Island called Campeche. Built in 1817, the community was used for years as a base from which he raided the Spanish merchant ships that traveled through the Gulf. In fact, since Lafitte was forced to leave the island, burning the town down behind him, his treasures are still rumored to be buried somewhere on the island.
During Prohibition, it was like, the Atlantic City of the Gulf Coast due to Gambling, Casinos, Dance, Dinner Halls. But this era came to an end in 1957 when the Texas Rangers raided the city and ended gambling in Galveston. 'The Balinese Room, with brilliant views of the beach and Gulf of Mexico, extended 600 feet out into the water, was home to 'world-class entertainers', stars like Frank Sinatra, Duke Ellington, Groucho Marx(Brothers), Bob Hope, Jack Benny, George Burns and Gracie Allen, Mel Torme, Jayne Mansfield, and Gene Autry performed at the club. 'Frank Chalfant writes in Galveston: Island of Chance. “Sam became good friends with and booked all the big names in the entertainment business. It is my heartfelt opinion that Sam Maceo was to Galveston what Steve Wynn is to Las Vegas today.” 'Patrons of the private club included Howard Hughes, Sophie Tucker, and Oil Barons.' 'The Balinese is featured in pop culture; Rock group ZZ Top, Houston, wrote and performed a song about the club called, "Balinese."
'From the 1920s to 1950s, Galveston was a gambling oasis.'
@@Brucev7 Thanks for that info and trivia....I had no idea! And let's not forget Glenn Campbell's song "Galveston" ;-) ruclips.net/video/qBLboy3aXA0/видео.html
History Guy... Truly a Great American Story...Well done...
I remember the character of Wrong Way Feldman (Hans Conrid)from Gilligan's Island. That caused me to seek out the real individual . I met him in 1985-6 . He would love to share his stories. He gave me an autographed copy of his book 1st edition. He was the first person to ever let me fly a Cessna!
constipated in sin city
Awesome story!!!
what an honor!!!
Douglas Corrigan just became a new hero to me :) Awesome bit of history!!
Hey History Guy, I really appreciate these videos and the amount of effort you put into them. History should be remembered so thank you very much.
The Canadian Forces Air Navigation School had an award named for Corrigan, given to graduating students who had taken their aircraft the furthest off track from the intended route, but still passed the training. Great telling of this story!
It is far easier to ask forgiveness than to ask for permission.
Thank goodness for personal liberties and freedom.
Yeah... those were the days! Now you break a law if you forget to buckle your seatbelt and walking down the street, someone is watching you on camera.
Won’t have that freedom much longer if we keep electing loons
Thats why a lot of us enjoy these stories. It was a time when you had more freedom because society was much more cohesive.
@@p51mustang24 Not really. That's nostalgia speaking. Plus you can't have both freedom and social cohesion.
@Jani Akujärvi Oh ya.... as if we are better off with the big orange buffoon in charge.
What an absolutely grand story! I'd long ago heard of "Wrong way Corrigan" but never knew "the rest of the story". Well done sir, well done.
“First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do.” Epictetus.
Thank you
Once a particular aircraft or vehicle gets it's hooks into your heart, there's no getting off. I've seen that same look on the faces of many a WW2 veteran pilot when they've been reintroduced to the aircraft they flew in the war. On a tank restoration show they rebuilt a M18 TD and managed to track down the original tank commander, he was still alive and lived not far from the workshop. The smile on his face when he saw his old tank was incredible. He scrambled up into the turret like he was 60yrs younger, no help needed, and just yelled "FASTER, FASTER!!" when they took him for a spin around the carpark. Had tears in my eyes when I watched that, and do again remembering it.
Thanks for all the great stories, and RIP to all those characters who made those stories possible. The world is lessened by your passing.
Heard of Corrigan, but never knew the full story. Admirable telling, and as the late Paul Harvey would say, "And now you know." Keep 'em coming as we all look forward to 'em.
I've never heard this wonderful story. Your closing comments brought tears. Thanks!
What a great story. You are the best History Guy. Thank you.
Massive salute to Corrigan and a massive thumbs up to the history guy, love your work, brilliant
History you can't live without: If history were taught in this way, many more people would be a lot better informed about a wealth of topics. History gives people an "anchor" on which to rest their intellect. I always enjoy the stories..........
Suggestion: could you please look into the possibility of telling stories of related attacks by the Japanese on December 7, 1941. We have a great one here in Hilo Hawaii. The details are little bit foggy in old timers' memories, but the true story goes: a Japanese submarine surfaced outside Hilo Harbor sometime during the morning of December 7, 1941. Its target was the iron works in town and possibly a military barracks/ hospital nearby which still exists as a public elementary school. This certainly sounds like, "History that deserves to be remembered.......".
Please keep up the good work as always. Thank you very much. Aloha and Mahalo!
As a young lad I was given a book on aviation stories. "Wrong Way" Corrigan was one I remember, along with others. Like Kingsford Smith, a marine Colonel named Rankin, (who ejected from a F8 Crusader into a thunderstorm.)Also an early woman pilot who flew the Atlantic, only to die performing a loop without being strapped in to her aircraft. Wish I still had the book,(along with about 300 others that got flooded out.)
"You accidentally flew to Ireland?" [wink]
"Yes sir, I did." [wink]
The story surely holds up, after all who would want to fly there knowingly *duck and run*
Thus starting an entire history of Aer Lingus jokes.
Thanks for sharing. As an old man I find myself looking back from time to time on what I have done by accident or otherwise. If I was given a mulligan you know darn well I’d have chose a path closer to Corrigan’s. He was one hell of an adventurer and he is someone I’d like to have known.
Excellent upbeat, story about an adventurer's daring, rule-defying escapade and his lifelong tongue-in-cheek explanation.
Every episode reminds me of listening to Paul Harvey. Thank you History Guy & Gal!
Really enjoyed this one, and the powerful, and to the point, message at the end. Thank you.
Holy shit it's the illuminati himself!
Damn, got to be the best History Guy episode ever! What a time to be alive, what history Corrigan made.
I had never heard this story. This is why I love this channel, there is always a great new story to learn about and enjoy!
Another story well told and deserving to be remembered. Thanks History Guy !!!
One of the best stories I have ever heard! A case of supreme confidence bending fate to its will.
Love this story, love your telling of Corrigan's story, @History Guy. "Shouldn't we all be that lucky, to discover our life's dream, and to go make it happen? And just not take no for an answer."
Wow, never heard of him and yet...truly warmed my heart, what a wonderful person and all you can say is that he did it his way!
I just visited the Planes of Fame Museum in Chino, CA and saw Wrong Way Corrrigan's plane Sunshine! The wings were off to the side but you could see the fuel tanks he installed to "travel across the US to the west coast". The guide told the story and said there were RUclips videos about the man and his plane. Thanks for the history lesson!
Respect & Gratitude Professor!!
Proud regular financial supporter of your program...
All throughput my life , my Dad used the phrase "Wrong Way Corrrigan ! " whenever he wanted to correct what I was doing. I guess I had a vague sense of the story behind it....But never realized what an inspiring , and important character Corrigan was . So great to hear this history!!
Damn, History guy throwing down some very real inspiration this morning. What a great yarn.
When I'd be going the wrong way somewhere, my mama would always call out, "Wrong way, Corrigan!" I say the same thing to my kids and now I know the history behind it! Thanks! 😊
The history guy outdid himself this time, what an awesome story!!
I came across an autograph of his in a local estate auction that he had signed on December 17th of 1989. As soon as I saw what he had signed, it reminded me of this video. A fantastic story if you ask me. Thank you so much for sharing all of these amazing bits of history that really do deserve to be remembered.
Thanks for a great episode. Although I knew of his flight I didn’t know that his “mistake” was most likely intentional. His determination does need to be remembered.
My family used to call me “wrong way corrigan” when I was a kid, but I never knew what it meant. Thanks for a great story!
instantly this has become one of my favorite snippets - thanks
I grew up in a town called Santa Ana, in Orange County, California. Back in the day there really were orange groves scattered all over Orange County, and one of them was next to my old neighborhood. The grove was owned by Wrong Way, and he lived in a house on the property. The rumor that ran amongst us kids was that there was a barn hidden somewhere in the depths of the orange grove where he had stashed his famous old plane, and the double dog dare ya challenge was to be brave enough to sneak in there and find it, if you could avoid getting eaten by the dogs he let run loose. To the best of my knowledge none of us ever actually made the attempt (they were big dogs!), but we all thought it was a pretty special thing to have a guy famous for thumbing his nose at Authority, and getting away with it, living just down the road. He was ‘our’ Wrong Way Corrigan, thanks for shining the spotlight on him once again.
I've always loved this story. Thank you for the great telling of an iconic flight.
Thank you for your presentation. Wrong Way Corrigan. You had me grinning through most of this story. I like every version of it that I have ever heard . Straight up youthful exuberance. Ain't it strange how a nickname will outlive the character? Enjoy
Thank you for the uplift! I kept thinking about forgiveness vs. permission.
Amen to that
I've heard of Corrigan all my life but had no idea of the story behind the name. Thank you History Guy for the fascinating tales and for making my life a little brighter.
This was great! I really enjoyed this one 😁
It's funny but I have lived by the same motto of NOT letting others tell me NO when there was no valid reason for being declined.
As long as I wasn't hurting anybody or putting others in danger, I've always thought, "Well, Why NOT?!?" And I'd go on about my way to DO whatever I had in mind. LOL
Unlike Mr. Corrigan, I suffered from some of my misadventures; some more than others and the aches and pains I have to this day are the direct result of those wayward frolics.
But, MAN! Some of my stories STILL have my hair standing on end just thinking about them. And rubbing the scars. LOL
That is one kindred spirit I truly would have loved to have met and shake his hand.
May he RIP and, hopefully, find the RIGHT way to Heaven!
Thanks to you, THG, for presenting this story for our enjoyment and education.
God Bless.
Looking at him smile, I knew he was having fun with the "authorities"
Love this story, I have always admired Douglas Corrigan for his attitude, and audacity. He is truly inspirational.
I always thought Wrong Way's story was weird, but now it makes perfect sense!
Spider Seven To an Irishman!
So glad The History Guy covered the story of this man and event. For me, it's always been one of the best stories of the 20th century; no tragedy, no world upheaval, no giant celebrities who lived long in the public eye. Just a plain mischievous guy who believed in himself and wanted to do his thing, in a long-gone age of discovery.
A beautiful, amusing and thrilling story of the American spirit. ❤️👍
Thanks, this is inspirational. I'm a goat shepherd & pursuing my dream so it's fun to hear this story!
Another great video. Thanks for reminding us of the people who did amazing things.
This story made me smile from ear to ear. Thank you, you made my day.
19 years in Thailand I always allow an hour for being lost finding a new place..Now with GPS it's gotten worse..However all the amazing places we find being lost is worth it
@Magyar, you need to have a steaming bowl of rice and Dog Crap and just STFU before some westerner knocks the snot out of you.
Oh, and get your ass off of MY planet! You are a fetid disease to all around you.
But have yourself a fine day, Sunshine.
This one is close to my heart. I have a copy of the NYT on the date of my birth, with lots of front page news about Howard hughes setting off on his around the world flight. There's also a small article mentioning that a west-coast aviator, anmed Douglas Corrigan, had just arrived at Floyd Bennett Field after completing a non-stop flight from San Diego. The article says that he plans to file a return flight plan in a few days. Little did they know. In ike form to Doug Corrigan, I never took "No" for an answer from all those who said I could never be a pilot. Lack of funds prevented me from taking lessons at Flushing Airport, but after badgering the local recruiter, I got a slot in the Aviation Cadet program and got my AF wings. I flew fighters, and later flew airliners from DC-6 to 747-400. Retired now for many years, I still fly my Socata Trinidad every week...and I will until I can't pass the physical.
I love it. I bought an autographed copy of his book, "That's My Story" at a library fund raiser in the 1970s. I don't believe a word of it, but it sure is fun.
Thanks so much for telling this story. 60 years ago I was a 5 year old in Santa Ana Ca. He was our neighbor across the street. It seemed he was always in his garage. I would go over there and bug him. He was always nice to me, a little kid. He told me stories and just let me hang out. It was really cool to know 'Wrong Way' Corrigan
I just loved this episode! He created his own future. He is a model for all. Life is up to us!
This was really awesome at 9 and 11 years old I met him multiple times he lived four houses down the street from my grandfather where I spent a lot of my weekends we would ride our bikes over there and talk to him . really thank you for this one had to drive by his house tonight on the way home thanks for those awesome memories and an awesome history as you always tell .
This is quite something different from accidentally taking the wrong turn during a holiday.
Bugs Bunny would be proud.
House of History
There comes a time when you have to call your own number when the coach won't .
Excellent production of a fascinating story. Thank you!
" That's My Story And I'm Stickin' To It! "
Another gem of a story! Thank you!
Great video like always!
I've known of "wrong way corrigan" for a long time, but not this well. This story put tears in my eyes. Well done!!!!
My dad told me about Douglas Corrigan back in the 1970's.
Dear Lance,
Thank you so much!!
I am ashamed to admit this, but I was granted my pilot's license back in 1980, but never knew the story of Wrong Way Corrigan until now at the tender age of 62. Keep up the great work!
Randy Havener
"I never had any aims, that's why I never got anywhere".
Welcome to the club. 🍻
This is a great story; I love it. He was an amazing man and reminds me of the Great Waldo Pepper. Well told!
As an avid flight enthusiast, I applaud his audacity and his perseverance. I think the FAA, while generally a plus for Aviation safety, is a costly burden to most pilots not endowed w/ endless finances. Why should only the wealthy get the privilege to fly?
V. E. The FAA is a redundant and cumbersome arm of the DOT.
It was the CAA [Civil Aeronautics Authority] then but every bit the same bureaucracy.
@v, because only the wealthy have the money to fix those hurt if they screw up while flying. If that money is not forthcoming, the victims can sue!
Its much more lax on very small aircraft... (those that do minimal damage)
I think in the USA, though required to be tiny, microlight, Ultralight, and such, are the poor-man's plane... much similar in design to the vehicles of the 1920s
The FAA is filled with computer geeks and want to be politicians!! The days of knowing anything Aviation is over!! Federals Against Aviation
I truly love this story and your comments at the end.
Thank you!
I had always been aware of the name 'Wrong Way' Corrigan, but thought it was something made up by the movies. Great to hear there was a real person behind a very well known name.
Truth is stranger than fiction
What a classic example of early American aviation enthusiasm. Thank you, History Guy, for remembering Wrong Way Corrigan.
jolopy is my word of the day today. thanks history guy. 👍😆😅😂
@Stephen Morton thanks for sharing the details of the word, we got another interesting bit of knowledge today! 😊
These stories from history are sooooo fantastic History Guy! Going to sit down with the grandsons and have a marathon! Thank you for all you do!
I knew part of the story but I'm glad you told it again cuz when you think how elaborately Lindbergh planned for his trip and see what wrong way Corrigan did it's kind of interesting he had to have a little bit of luck that's for sure maybe you should do something on Max Conrad I met his grandson at my restaurant in Towanda once
Thanks once again for the great video of someone that was revered by my late father. He was always mentioning his name and his feat of flying to Irland. I never knew his whole story, so thanks again History Guy.