History of Wright Brothers’ Day
On September 24, 1959, President Dwight D. Eisenhower declared the anniversary of the Wright Flyer’s maiden flight in 1903 to be a codified holiday (it is a commemorative day on government calendars, but is not technically a government holiday).
It has been observed annually ever since that time, both in honor of the pioneering experiments of the Wrights as well as to focus on the history and future of aviation technologies.
It is widely accepted among many laypeople and historians that the Wright Brothers were the ones who first invented the airplane. However, there are several competing claims that make it difficult to determine whether or not they were actually the first to accomplish heavier-than-air powered flight.
Regardless of those competing claims, the Wright Flyer was the first aircraft that was patented in the United States.
Orville and Wilbur Wright made further experiments during the first decade of the 20th century, which would prove indispensable to the development of the airplane.
Quite simply, while we may never know if anyone flew before the Wrights, there is no doubt that they contributed significantly to the history of aviation.
While some people may look at photos of the Wright Flyer today and think that it seems to be old-fashioned, it is important to remember that it was actually the cutting edge of aviation technology back in 1903.
Each year, the president of the United States makes an annual proclamation inviting Americans to observe Wright Brothers Day with activities and ceremonies in honor of two rather important people in the history of the world.
Official observances for this day include the annual Wright Brothers Dinner in Washington D.C., where the Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy is awarded.
In addition, there are planned celebrations in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, where the Wright Flyer had its maiden flight, as well as in Dayton, Ohio, the hometown of the Wright brothers.
Other activities include various luncheons in honor of the Wright brothers, school activities focused on aviation, and field trips to aviation museums or airports.
And that is why it’s time to celebrate and enjoy Wright Brothers’ Day!