1923 Orville Wright Autographed Letter On Personal Letterhead

Orville Wright’s 1923 Letter: A Testament to Aviation History

A Glimpse into Aviation’s Pioneering Era

Presented here is a remarkable piece of sports memorabilia that transcends the realm of sports and delves into the annals of aviation history. This 7.25″ x 10.5″ letter, dated March 18, 1923, is penned on Orville Wright’s personal letterhead. It serves as a testament to a pivotal moment in aviation, capturing the essence of innovation and the relentless pursuit of excellence that characterized the early 20th century.

A Record-Breaking Achievement

Near McCook Field in Dayton, Ohio, Orville Wright witnessed a groundbreaking event on April 17, 1923. Navy Lieutenant Rutledge Irvine set a new world record by ascending to an altitude of 11,609 feet with a load of 2,405 pounds. While this altitude weight carrying record might not have been as spectacular as other aviation feats, it held immense significance for the development of torpedo planes, crucial for military service requirements. The ability to maneuver under full-load conditions was paramount for military pilots, underscoring the importance of this achievement.

The Letter’s Content and Significance

Orville Wright’s letter, addressed to B. Russell Shaw of the National Aeronautic Association, reads in part: “I am sending enclosed the observers’ record. Mr. George B. Smith was also present at the start of this flight as an observer, but left the field before the landing, and so it was by the merest chance that any of us were present at the landing, as we mistook another plane, which appeared to land in the city, for the Douglas Torpedo.” This letter, signed in Orville Wright’s hand, is a rare artifact that captures the meticulous documentation of aviation milestones.

• Historical Context: The letter is a window into the early days of aviation, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of pioneering aviators.
• Authenticity: Accompanied by a full Letter of Authenticity from PSA/DNA, ensuring its provenance and significance.
• Additional Documents: The letter is part of a collection that includes 13 other related pages, offering a comprehensive view of the event.

A Collection of Observers’ Statements

The letter is still stapled into its original legal folder, labeled “Request for Homologation of World Record National Aeronautic Association U.S.A. Altitude With Useful Load of 1000 Kilograms Lt. Rutledge Irvine Dayton, Ohio April 17, 1923.” This folder contains a wealth of historical documents, including a typed statement from official observers Orville and Lorin Wright, in both English and French. Also included are a TLS signed by George K. Burgess, Director of the Bureau of Standards, and a weight certification of the load, each document meticulously preserved.

This extraordinary collection, featuring the articulate and crisply signed account by Orville Wright, is a testament to the meticulous documentation and celebration of aviation achievements. It is a rare opportunity to own a piece of history that not only commemorates a record-breaking flight but also reflects the spirit of innovation that defined an era. For those interested in exploring more about such significant artifacts, visit our consign sports memorabilia page to learn more about the process.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.