Stirling’s landscape, people, and institutions have played a quiet but significant role in the history of aviation. From early balloon ascents and experimental flights to wartime airfields, training activity, and the local industries that supported them, Stirling’s skies have long been more active than they first appear.
Everyone knows the Wright brothers, but far fewer people know the story of the two brothers who helped change aviation forever and placed Stirling on the world map of flight. In this talk, Jonathan Kaney of Stirling Central Library explores the remarkable story of the Barnwell brothers, pioneering aircraft designers whose work from Stirling helped shape modern aviation at a crucial moment in its development. Their early experiments, technical innovations, and personal tragedies influenced both military and civilian aircraft design in ways that are still felt today.
Originally developed as an exhibition for Stirling Science Festival and Stirling 900, this talk brings the story to life through a rich visual presentation of rare and beautiful photographs from Stirling Council Libraries and Archives. These images reveal the people, places, and machines behind the headlines, showing how Stirling became central to a global story of innovation, risk, and ambition.
Everyone knows the Wright brothers, but far fewer people know the story of the two brothers who helped change aviation forever and placed Stirling on the world map of flight. In this talk, Jonathan Kaney of Stirling Central Library explores the remarkable story of the Barnwell brothers, pioneering aircraft designers whose work from Stirling helped shape modern aviation at a crucial moment in its development. Their early experiments, technical innovations, and personal tragedies influenced both military and civilian aircraft design in ways that are still felt today.
Originally developed as an exhibition for Stirling Science Festival and Stirling 900, this talk brings the story to life through a rich visual presentation of rare and beautiful photographs from Stirling Council Libraries and Archives. These images reveal the people, places, and machines behind the headlines, showing how Stirling became central to a global story of innovation, risk, and ambition.
RSS Feed