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Archive Reference / Library Class No.D5459/1/28/5
Former ReferenceD5459/2/139
TitleBritish Flag Balloon for Air or Water
Date[1785]
DescriptionA drawing showing Lunardi's British Flag Balloon inflated. The various parts of the balloon are numbered, with explanations at the bottom of the page. The canopy is decorated with the Union Jack and the arms of the Prince of Wales. The basket is draped with a red fringed curtain. The upper level of the basket has wings projecting from it, and the lower level has oars. At the very bottom is a boat-like structure, with two cannons projecting from the front. Available on CD 157.
LevelItem
RepositoryDerbyshire Record Office
ArtistWoodward, George Murgatroyd (?1765-1809)
Archive CreatorGeorge Murgatroyd Woodward (1765-1809), artist and writer
Further InformationText reads:
'Mr Lunardis New balloon representing the colours of the British Flag embellish'd with the arms of his Majesty and His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales. - 1. Oars for the air - 2. Ditto for the water - 3. Cannons for the effect of sound in the air - 4. Speaking trumpet - 5. Boat for the water - 6. Seat for Mr Lunardi. - 7. Ditto for [...]'

The balloon was used in the flight of 29 Jun 1785. The drawing accurately shows the wings and oars Lunardi hoped would help propel him. He claimed to have used the oars in his first aerial trip in order to help him land.
He also used his speaking trumpet to address harvesters on his first voyage on 15 Sep 1784. The Prince of Wales, whose arms the balloons bears, was interested in the work of Lunardi, and saw him off on his first flight.
Physical DescriptionColoured drawing. Size 377 x 232 mm. Portrait.
CopiesA digital copy can also be viewed on the public computers at the record office.
Related MaterialFor more information on Lunardi see D5459/1/28/6
Publication NoteRolt, 1966.
Image

British Flag Balloon for Air or Water

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