The first engine-powered plane

Talking about the Concorde and aviation reminds me that this year 2003 marks the centenary of the first engine-powered flight by the Wright brothers.

Here is a Singapore stamp that commemorates the event.

The Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, were reputed to be men of few words.

The story goes that in a big celebration dinner in honourof their pioneering achievement, the Master of Ceremonies said, “I now call upon Orville Wright to say a few words”.

Rising slowly from his seat, to long and loud applause, Orville Wright said, “Thank you for the privilege to say a few words. Actually, it is my brother Wilbur who will say a few words”, and sat down.

It was now Wilbur’s turn. Rising slowly from his seat, to long and loud applause, Wilbur Wright said, “Thank you for the privilege to say a few words. My brother Orville has already said them”, and sat down.

Re-trievia recalled: Excerpts from Year 2003/ 2004
Tan Wee Kiat