Monthly Archives: December 2011

“a flight very modest compared with that of birds”

Posted on December 17, 2011 by lynda

December 17, 1903. At 10:35 a.m., Orville Wright takes off into a 27 mph wind. The distance covered was 120 feet, and the time aloft was 12 seconds. Wilbur can be seen at right. The picture was taken with Orville’s … Continue reading →

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Sick in Rolla, Missouri

Posted on December 15, 2011 by john

On December 15, 1861, Robert wrote his father from a camp in Rolla, Missouri.  In the letter, Robert writes about being extremely sick — almost to the point of death, as well as commenting on regimental politics.  (Transcript of Robert’s … Continue reading →

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A Birthday, One Hundred Years Ago

Posted on December 14, 2011 by lynda

Today marks the 100th birthday of Dr. Hans von Ohain, co-inventor of the jet engine. Special Collections and Archives is fortunate to have collections from both co-inventors, von Ohain and Sir Frank Whittle. Reprinted below is the biographical note from … Continue reading →

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