Replica of the Wright Brothers 1901 Wind Tunnel, Constructed in 1938
Add to SetSummary
When their glider did not perform as expected in 1901, Wilbur and Orville Wright determined that the standard lift tables -- used to predict the lift generated by aircraft wings -- were incorrect. The Wrights built a wind tunnel in their Dayton bicycle shop and calculated their own tables. This new data led directly to their success with the 1903 Wright Flyer.
When their glider did not perform as expected in 1901, Wilbur and Orville Wright determined that the standard lift tables -- used to predict the lift generated by aircraft wings -- were incorrect. The Wrights built a wind tunnel in their Dayton bicycle shop and calculated their own tables. This new data led directly to their success with the 1903 Wright Flyer.
Artifact
Wind tunnel
Date Made
1938
Subject Date
1901
Creators
Place of Creation
United States, Michigan, Dearborn
Creator Notes
A replica of the wind tunnel built in 1901 by Wilbur and Orville Wright. Created in 1938 by Ford Motor Company staff from notes supplied by Orville Wright.
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
38.833.1
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Wood (Plant material)
Glass (Material)
Metal
Dimensions
Height: 46.25 in
Width: 21.5 in
Length: 74.5 in
Share Anywhere
Use this Artifact Card to share this great find with others. From historic images to vivid descriptions, a record of rich detail is bundled inside a single card.
