The Wright Brothers Memorial

After we checked out of our hotel, we drove a few blocks down to The Wright Brothers Memorial in Kitty Hawk. We listened to a half-hour presentation explaining about their first attempts at flight, the locations where they took off and landed, the conditions they had to work in and so forth. We have an all new appreciation for what they did and how hard they worked to accomplish the ability of flight.

It was a rather warm afternoon, but still a gorgeous day for a walk. The climb up to the monument on Kill Devil Hill was a bit strenuous, especially pushing a stroller, but it was worth it for the spectacular view. From the top, you can see the ocean to one side and the bay on the other, as well as Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills and the wide expanse of fields and dunes at the historical site.

After wandering around the park for a while, we then took off down south. We drove through Nags Head, alongside Pea Island NWR, Rodanthe, Avon and down to Hatteras. We checked out the Bodie Island Lighthouse at Nags Head...more on that later.




A close up of the monolithic memorial at the top of the hill.


Historical marker showing the hill then and now. (Click to view larger photo and read sign.)


The actual spot that famous photo was taken.


A huge granite rock commemorating the site of the 1st flight. (Amelia Earhart happened to be present at the 25th anniversary when this was dedicated.)


The memorial eclipsing the sun.


A long, steep walk, but we're prepared to make it.


Looking up from the base of the hill.


Molly looking toward the ocean...this photo is facing north toward the museum, historical structures and hangers.


A panaramic view from the top of Kill Devils Hill.


Spanning to the right of the museum...


...further right, with the ocean in the background. Our hotel is to the far right.


A sewing machine used by Wilbur Wright in 1900.


Reproduction of the 1902 Wright Glider.


Reproduction of 1903 Wright Flyer.