Wright Family Writing Desk, 1890-1900
THF80584 / Wright Family Writing Desk, 1890-1900
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Artifact Overview
This ladies' writing desk is the starting point for a transportation revolution. On May 30, 1899, a Dayton, Ohio, bicycle shop owner named Wilbur Wright sat down at his sister's desk and wrote a letter to the secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. Wilbur's letter sparked a series of events that led to the world's first powered airplane flight in 1903.
Artifact Details
Artifact
Slant-front desk
Date Made
1890-1900
Place of Creation
Location
at Greenfield Village in Wright Home
Object ID
38.792.4
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Orville Wright.
Material
Ash (Wood)
Brass (Alloy)
Stain (Coating)
Walnut (Wood)
Technique
Inlay (Process)
Dimensions
Height: 41 in
Width: 27.5 in
Depth: 16.5 in
Keywords |
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Though the Wright family moved around, brothers Wilbur and Orville always thought of this house, originally located at 7 Hawthorn Street in Dayton, Ohio, as home. Orville was born here in 1871, and Wilbur died here in 1912. It was also here that the brothers began their serious studies in aviation -- work that led to their successful 1903 Wright Flyer.
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