Wright Brothers' Milestones
Birth of Wilbur
Wilbur Wright was born near Millville, Indiana, to Milton and Susan Wright.
Birth of Orville
Orville Wright was born in Dayton, Ohio, to Milton and Susan Wright.
Early childhood and education
Inspired by a toy helicopter from their father, Wilbur and Orville developed an early interest in flight. Both attended high school but did not receive diplomas.
Wilbur's accident and family care
Wilbur suffered a facial injury in 1885, became withdrawn, and cared for his terminally ill mother, Susan, until her death in 1889.
Started printing business
Orville started a printing business with Wilbur; launched the West Side News and other publications.
Founded Wright Cycle Company
Founded the Wright Cycle Company in Dayton, building and repairing bicycles, which funded their aeronautical experiments.
Interest in flight and research
Inspired by Otto Lilienthal's gliding experiments and other aviation pioneers, the brothers began serious study of flight.
First kite and glider experiments
Conducted extensive kite and glider experiments at Kitty Hawk, developing three-axis control and improving wing design.
First powered flight
Achieved the first powered, controlled, and sustained heavier-than-air flight at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. Orville piloted the first flight, Wilbur the longest that day.
Further Flyer development
Developed and flew improved Flyers at Huffman Prairie, Ohio; 1905 Flyer III became the first practical airplane.
Patent granted
Received U.S. Patent No. 821,393 for their flying machine, securing their invention.
Public demonstrations in Europe and U.S.
Wilbur demonstrated flights in France, stunning the public and aviation experts; Orville demonstrated for the U.S. Army at Fort Myer.
First fatal airplane accident
Orville was injured and passenger Thomas Selfridge killed in the first fatal airplane crash during a demonstration at Fort Myer.
Wright Company founded
Founded the Wright Company to manufacture airplanes and train pilots; Wilbur served as president, Orville as vice president.
First commercial air cargo
Wright Company transported first known commercial air cargo, flying dress silk from Dayton to Columbus, Ohio.
Wilbur's later years and death
Wilbur stopped flying after 1911, focusing on business and legal matters. Died of typhoid fever in Dayton, Ohio, at age 45.
Orville's leadership and legacy
Orville led the company, sold it in 1915, and became an elder statesman of aviation. Received numerous honors and witnessed the evolution of flight.
Death of Orville
Orville Wright died in Dayton, Ohio, at age 76, having witnessed the dawn of the jet and supersonic age. Both brothers are buried in Woodland Cemetery, Dayton.