Press Release attached to photo: "HUGHES HERCULES READY FOR TESTS. LONG BEACH, CAL. An aerial view shows Howard Hughes' giant plywood seaplane Hercules ready for taxi tests at Long Beach. The initial flight of the plane, which cost $20,000,000 and will seat 700 persons, will not be attempted until early in 1947. ACME 10/13/46." Los Angeles Harbor, Terminal Island are now known as Long Beach.
Description given with photo: "Hughes Flying Boat - Port bow in dry dock at Terminal Island. Howard Hughes and Jack Jerman on platform in background. Long Beach, Cal."
Transcribed from attached press release: "Howard Hughes, on the flight deck of his flying boat, world's largest airplane, discusses with his flight engineer and radio operator, plans for tomorrow's taxi testing of the 400,000 pound craft. The flight deck occupies the upper level in the nose of the 219-foot hull, Nov 1, 1947."
Howard Hughes after breaking his own cross-country speed record, January 19, 1937. Inscription with image reads: "Howard Hughes at Newark Airport. 1/37." For more information, see Image 0373 0241 whh000519.