The Government Airplane
lorne strider
“Early in the year 1903 the U.S. government awarded a grant of $70,000 to Samuel Langley to develop a heavier-than-air flying machine. Dr. Langley, director of the Smithsonian Institute, was amply qualified for the undertaking, being one of the most respected scientists of his time.
“Naturally, no government enterprise could proceed without a staff of administrators, committees and overseers, which were hired with the $70,000 budget. The government airplane was to be launched from a ramp on a house boat, and much of his budget was expended for this.
“On October 7, 1903, the government airplane developed by Dr. Langley’s team was ready for a test launch. The house boat was towed 
to the launch site amid great fanfare. A large crowd gathered, fireworks were displayed, and newsmen jostled each other for a good view of what they hoped would be the momentous occasion of man’s first powered heavier-than-air flight.
“The excitement mounted as the aircraft’s engine roared to life. When it reached full throttle the machine was released, and it lumbered along the catapult toward launch. A few seconds of wonderful acceleration were followed by an ignominious plunge into the Potomac.” …