A letter sent to the Aero Club of America on 22 May 1919 established a $25,000 reward for the first non-stop flight connecting New York City and Paris. The offer, initiated by French American hotelier Raymond Orteig, aimed to strengthen diplomatic ties between France and the United States while advancing aviation technology during the post-war era.
Early Life and Hospitality Career
Born in the village of Louvie-Juzon in 1870, Orteig spent his early childhood working as a shepherd in the Pyrenees. At age 12, he emigrated to New York City with 13 francs to join his uncle. He began his professional life as a bar porter at Wengler's Restaurant. Through persistence, he advanced to roles as a waiter and maître d' at the Martin Hotel on University Place. By 1902, he acquired the business and rebranded it as the Hotel Lafayette. He later expanded his portfolio by leasing and refurbishing the Brevoort Hotel on Fifth Avenue, which became a focal point for his future ventures.
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The Hotel Lafayette served as a gathering spot for airmen and French military officers during World War I. Inspired by a dinner speech from aviation ace Eddie Rickenbacker, Orteig sought to facilitate a direct aerial link between his native and adopted countries. He issued the prize in 1919 with a five-year window, later renewing the offer in 1925 with $25,000 deposited at the Bryant Bank. The incentive became a catalyst for international aviation competition, eventually attracting the attention of Charles Lindbergh.
The Lindbergh Achievement
Upon receiving news that Lindbergh had departed for Europe, Orteig traveled to Paris to witness the landing of the Spirit of St. Louis. He met Lindbergh at the American Embassy in May 1927. The formal presentation of the award occurred on 16 June 1927 at the Brevoort Hotel. This event marked a significant milestone in transatlantic travel and cemented Orteig's reputation within the French-American community, for which he was eventually named a Chevalier of the Legion of Honour.
Legacy and Final Years
In his mid-fifties, Orteig entered semi-retirement, entrusting the daily operations of his hotels to his three sons, Evariste, Raymond Jr, and Jean, and his business partner Elie Pierre Daution. Throughout his career, he maintained a connection to his roots by purchasing the Henri IV Hotel in Pau. He died on 6 June 1939 at the French Hospital in New York City. He is buried at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery.
Fast facts
- Born: 1870, Louvie-Juzon, France
- Died: 6 June 1939, New York City
- Occupations: Entrepreneur, hotel owner
- Awards: Legion of Honour
- Immigration: Arrived in New York City 13 October 1882
- Notable Business: Hotel Lafayette and Brevoort Hotel
- Burial Site: Gate of Heaven Cemetery
Questions readers ask
What was the purpose of the Orteig Prize?
It was created to foster Franco-American friendship and encourage the development of transatlantic aviation.
Who won the $25,000 award?
Charles Lindbergh claimed the prize in 1927 after flying non-stop from New York City to Paris.
Achievements
- Legion of Honour
