A Survey and Tribute

Abstract

‘Let us now praise famous men’–Men of little showing–For their work continueth,And their work continueth,Broad and deep continueth,Greater than their knowing !Rudyard Kipling.It is of cardinal importance that the facts of aeronautical history should be placed on record.The stirring stories of these tremendous first fifty flying years must be told where and when and how they can, but should be told quickly before the mists of time and memory lose them for ever.Here is set down the story of the unprecedented achievement of the Wright Brothers, their impacts on, and relationships with, those members of the one-time Aeronautical Society of Great Britain who knew them and were aware of the reality of their genius. It is a story of some importance and one which it is fitting should be on record in the Society's own publication, for all to read who may. It is told by the brothers themselves, and by members of the Society.