The story of Captain Roger L. Smith
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
Captain Roger Lovewell Smith, an aviation pioneer from Coaticook, holds a cherished place in the history of both the Eastern Townships and Canadian aviation. His journey began with youthful dreams inspired by Charles Lindbergh and took flight into a lifetime of notable achievements. One of the most memorable parts of his legacy was the joy he brought to fairgoers at the Ayer’s Cliff Fair by offering plane rides that sparked dreams of flight for many in the community.
Smith’s fascination with aviation began at the age of 15 after seeing a photograph of Charles Lindbergh. He soon found himself working as a mechanic and test pilot for Continental Aero Corporation in exchange for flying lessons. By the time he turned 16, he had performed his first solo flight in an OX-5 Travel Air E-2000 biplane, becoming one of Canada’s youngest licensed pilots. At 19, he was the youngest commercial pilot in the country, and he quickly made a name for himself barnstorming across Canada, including offering $2 rides at events such as the Ayer’s Cliff Fair.
During the Ayer’s Cliff Fair, Smith would charge $2 per passenger for a short ride in his biplane, allowing passengers to experience the thrill of flying over the event and the scenic landscape of the Eastern Townships. Kelly M. Smith, Roger’s son, recalled that the plane rides became a local sensation, with Captain Smith frequently parking his Travel Air E-4000 biplane at Elmwood Park near the family’s cottage by Lake Massawippi. “There’s even a postcard showing my dad and uncle with the plane in the background,” Kelly noted in an Aug. 26 interview. “He used to park his airplane near the fairgrounds, and people would flock for a chance to fly.”
