Quote Originally Posted by Jim Heffelfinger View Post
I offer John J Montgomery as first controlled heavier than air - unpowered. Research this nearly forgotten aviation pioneer.
Golden West Fly In theme this year - On display will be a (hopefully) flying replica of the Santa Clara Glider on display.
jim
http://www.goldenwestflyin.org/News/...ain%20page.htm
Montgomery was a fascinating guy, and, in my opinion, well worth learning more about. No affiliation, etc., but I can recommend this book:

http://www.amazon.com/Quest-Flight-J.../dp/0806142642

Not to mention William Wellman's slightly-obscure classic movie, Gallant Journey. I don't know Montgomery's story well enough to attest to the accuracy, but it's a very enjoyable film.