The Book of the Bricks

Introduction in Brief

Samuel Franklin Cody was the first person in the United Kingdom to make a controlled sustained flight in a powered, heavier-than-air machine. He was a significant aviation pioneer, having started with the development of kites. FAST has long been working to  commemorate Samuel Franklin Cody in ways which properly reflect his status as Britain’s first pilot. A replica was built of the first aircraft, to commemorate the centenary of the first flight (which may be seen at the FAST Museum in the Cody Pavilion); and a statue was unveiled on 8 August 2013 in front of the museum on the Farnborough Road, to commemorate the centenary of Cody’s death. The statue is complemented by an area covered in paving bricks bearing the names of individuals and companies who wished to contribute and who, in most cases, have a connection with Farnborough, the RAE, or aviation in general.

Behind each brick, there is a story. This, then, is THE BOOK OF THE BRICKS.

You can download the indexed book, or flick through on screen below.

Further Contributions to the Book

We would really welcome further additions to our Brick Stories. If you would like to add a story and photos for a brick you donated please send a request to: bricks@airsciences.org.uk and you will be sent a template to complete.

View Book on Screen

(Click on Full Screen Icon to View)