This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/27/2023
Fabric from the wing of the first airplane, the Wright Flyer, which made its debut flight at Kitty Hawk on 17 December 1903. Large swatch of fabric measures 1.875'' x 1.625'', taken from the wing of the airplane and personally saved by Orville Wright after the plane's restoration. Fabric is affixed to a certificate signed by Harold S. Miller, nephew-in-law of Orville and Wilbur Wright and co-executor of the Orville Wright estate. Certificate to the recipient, Bob and Dot Neff, reads in part, ''When Orville Wright prepared the Kitty Hawk machine for public exhibition, the original fabric had to be replaced as it had been under water during the Dayton Flood of 1913...After his death we found that he had preserved some of the original coverings of the wings. We certify that this piece of fabric was used by Orville Wright on December 17, 1903 at Kitty Hawk, N.C. in the world's first heavier-than-air flight in which man made free, controlled, and sustained flight. [signed] Harold S. Miller''. Certificate measures 8'' x 10''. Near fine condition. Accompanied by Wright Bros. first day cover.