Fredericksburg Parent

14 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • July 2024 Everyone knows that the Wright Brothers were "First in Flight." Well, yes and no. Flight enthusiasts - both those with and without a pilot's license - will want to travel to the Stafford Regional Airport to learn about the man who beat the Wright Brothers to the skies. His name was Samuel Langley, and, on May 6, 1896, he achieved "the world's first successful flight of an unpiloted, engine driven, heavier-than-air craft of substantial size." So momentous was the day that even Alexander Graham Bell was there for the event, which occurred in Stafford County. Bell wasn't the only person there that day - so were photog- raphers who documented the flight. Now, you can experience the event and learn more about it thanks to the efforts of the Langley Flight Foundation, which has opened the Langley Aerodrome Experience to teach oth- ers about Stafford's prominent place in aviation history. The most interesting sight is the replica of the aerodrome that hangs from the ceiling. The original is at the Smithsonian, but the Langley Flight Foundation measured it to create an exact replica. Stafford airport is just north of Fredericksburg off I95 at mile marker 136, making it an easy morning or afternoon trip for the family. School age kids will both enjoy the exhibits, as well as find some fun things to do. There are interactive kiosks, as well as a video which reconstructs the flight in real time. Your kids will find the experience amazing. The Langley Flight Foundation exists thanks to the research and dedication of Phil Hornung. It is supported with generous gifts from Silver Companies, Discover Stafford, Bob and Amy Stanford, Tour Stafford Virginia, EDA Stafford, and Stafford County. 14 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • July 2024 Just up I95 from Fredericksburg is an exhibit that will thrill the hearts of aviation buffs young and old. WRITTEN BY PENNY A PARRISH FAMILY GET-AWAY Fly Away to Langley

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