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Ascent of Bell's Aerial Machine, from Vauxhall Gardens, 1850. Creator: Unknown
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Ascent of Bell's Aerial Machine, from Vauxhall Gardens, 1850. Creator: Unknown
Ascent of Bell's Aerial Machine, from Vauxhall Gardens, [London], 1850. The machine which Mr. Bell has constructed...is capable of sustaining a weight of between 500 and 600 lb. when inflated with the ordinary carburetted hydrogen. The propellers are on the principle of the screw-propeller. If two are used, they are placed one on each side of the car...This apparatus is so constructed as to have a hinge and a rotating motion, so as to obtain the necessary movements of an extended surface or fan, in all respects similar to the tail of a bird, so that the guiding or directing of the machine may be under the control of the aeronaut...the balloon ascended in the presence of a considerable number of spectators - among them several individuals of scientific eminence...We did not observe that the aeronaut had any specific control over the machine...It seemed to drift along...like any other balloon...'. From "Illustrated London News", 1850
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Media ID 36213085
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Aerial Aeronaut Air Transport Ascending Ascent Aviation Aviator Balloon Ballooning Contraption Crowds Flight Flying Machine Hot Air Balloon Hydrogen Balloon Invention Kennington Lambeth London England Machine Machinery Onlooker Onlookers Spectator Spectators Vauxhall Gardens
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph captures the historic moment of the Ascent of Bell's Aerial Machine at Vauxhall Gardens in London, 1850. The identity of the photographer remains unknown, but the image is taken from the pages of the Illustrated London News, providing a detailed account of the event. The machine, designed by the pioneering inventor, Sir George Cayley and piloted by Henry Coxwell, was a significant step forward in the development of heavier-than-air flight. The machine, depicted in the photograph, is described as being capable of sustaining a weight of between 500 and 600 lb. when filled with carburetted hydrogen. The propellers, positioned on either side of the car, were based on the principle of the screw-propeller. The aeronaut had the ability to control the machine through a hinge and rotating motion, resembling the tail of a bird. The successful ascent of Bell's Aerial Machine drew a large crowd, including several individuals of scientific eminence. The Illustrated London News reports that the balloon rose in the presence of a considerable number of spectators. However, it appears that the aeronaut had little control over the machine during the ascent, as it seemed to drift along like any other balloon. Despite this, the event marked a significant milestone in the history of aviation, paving the way for further advancements in the field. This photograph provides a fascinating glimpse into the past, offering a unique insight into the early days of aviation and the pioneering spirit of those who dared to dream of taking flight.
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