New Britain, Connecticut – April 23, 1911
On April 23, 1911, well known aviator Charles K. Hamilton was at the newly opened aviation field at what had been the “Andrews tract” located in the “Stanley Quarter” section of New Britain to make a test flight of his newly acquired airplane. An estimated 10,000 people had arrived that morning to watch the event, for airplanes were still a rarity in 1911. However, due to unfavorable weather the crowds were forced to wait around most of the day. Unfortunately, by late afternoon most had gone home before conditions had changed to the point where Hamilton decided to make his flight.
The aircraft took off and headed west, rising to an altitude of about 100 feet. After about a half mile the plane suddenly swerved to one side and went down near a ravine crumpling the wings and trapping Hamilton in the twisted wreckage. The crowds swarmed over the plane, and after Hamilton was extricated, proceeded to remove “souvenirs”.
Hamilton’s injuries were minor.
The type of airplane wasn’t specified.
Source:
Hartford Courant, “Hamilton’s New Aeroplane Wrecked”, April 24, 1911
