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Flying High in Fredericksburg Texas History

Sep 04, 2009

imageHere in the Texas Hill Country, there are many people who have a different opinion than the accepted version in the history books.  Some say there is evidence to support the story that Gillespie County resident Jacob Brodbeck was successfull in piloting a fixed-wing aircraft nearly 40 years before the Wright brothers.

According to the story, Brodbeck flew his “airship” on September 20, 1865.  This took place near Fredericksburg, about 3 miles east of Luckenbach.  Reports have it that though the flight was “successfull”, Brodbeck crash landed and destroyed his craft.  He was not seriously injured during the event.

Brodbeck’s “airplane” had wings, a propeller, a rudder and was powered by coiled springs.  However, after being unsuccessful in obtaining a patent for his invention he did not pursue his interest in flight further.

Brodbeck died seven years after the flights by the Wright Brothers and some in the Hill Country stubbornly refer to him as the “Father of U.S. Aviation”.  Believing that he has not received proper recognition even in Fredericksburg Texas, his descendents have erected a monument on Marktplatz in downtown Fredericksburg.

What an interesting place to live.  People buy Fredericksburg Texas real estate and move to the Texas Hill Country for many reasons: the moderate weather, the historical architecture, the quality health services, the multifaceted cultural and artistic events.  But there is more to the story.  From an isolated cultural population to growing vivacious town, Fredericksburg still carries a rich heritage and a history all its own.

Find out more about real estate in Fredericksburg Texas.  Call me with any questions about Fredericksburg TX homes, acreage or land and I will be happy to share information and my enthusiasm for this special place.  Call (830) 456-6243 or email (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).