Robert Mulligan—A Boy, A Dream, and a Homemade Plane

 

Robert Mulligan—A Boy, A Dream, and a Homemade Plane

In a story that captures the spirit of perseverance and ambition, 16-year-old Robert Charles Mulligan of Bellerose, built and flew his own airplane in 1938 after saving his earnings for more than two years. Robert’s goal wasn’t fame or thrill-seeking—it was pure passion for aviation.

Starting with nothing but determination, Robert earned his money as a soda jerk and invested every dime into building his dream plane. He completed the aircraft using a motorcycle engine and took off from the then-active Roosevelt Field—now the location of Roosevelt Field Mall in Garden City, Long Island.

With just a short hop over the field, Robert demonstrated the impossible was possible with enough grit and vision. He didn’t need fancy training or deep pockets—just unshakeable belief in his dream.

Whatever Happened to Robert Mulligan?

It is not surprising that by 1942, Robert was working for the Brewster Aeronautical Corporation that manufactured naval aircrafts. After the company folded at the end of World War II, Robert enlisted in the National Guard. He died in 1991 at the age of 69 in Miami, FL as a husband, father and grandfather. I can only imagine that he left amazing stories with those who knew him. If any readers know more about his life story, I would love to hear from you!

Legacy of Roosevelt Field

Robert’s takeoff site, Roosevelt Field, holds its own legendary status—it’s the same airfield where Charles Lindbergh departed for his historic transatlantic flight in 1927. Today, the field has transformed into Roosevelt Field Mall, a place of commerce layered over the dreams of past aviators like young Robert.

The Moral of Robert’s Story?
Never underestimate the power of persistence. Robert Mulligan didn’t wait for opportunity—he built his own wings.