Emil Matthew
(Matty) Laird formed the Laird Aviation Co. in 1919 building
light biplanes. After Matty left the partnership, he
established a new company, the E.M. Laird Airplane Co.,
concentrating on custom-built sport and racing aircraft.
History
1912: Matty Laird builds his first aircraft
at age 16
1919: Laird Aviation formed with brother
Charles and other partners
1923: Charles Laird and partners buy Matty
Laird out and rename company Swallow Airplane Mfg. Matty forms
E M Laird Airplane Company.
1941: E M Laird plant converted to B-24
subassembly.
1945: Matty Laird retires
