Welcome to another episode of Warbird Wednesday! Today, we’re discussing the H4 Hercules, also known as the Spruce Goose, the largest flying boat ever built with the largest wingspan at the time. The H4 was made using the duramold process, a technique involving compressing wood pulp slurry, primarily Birch, with other elements to create a cast material. The aircraft was a response to the shortage of aluminum during World War II, and its purpose was to serve as a cargo carrier, transporting war materials. Howard Hughes took over the project from Henry J Kaiser and completed the H4, which had its famous flight where it briefly lifted off the water. The aircraft is now displayed at the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum in McMinnville.