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Bromley and Beckenham Philatelic Society
AIRMAILS of France was the subject of John Hammonds' latest display.
He described the early balloon flights from the 18th and 19th centuries, including the first crossing of the channel by air, and the use of balloons during the 1870/1 siege of Paris.
Mr aAmmonds moved on to airships and their use in France, and finally to fixed-wing aircraft.
He spoke about some of the key personalities
involved, including Santos Dumont, Clement Ader, Hubert Latham, De Lessops and Henry Rolls.
The 1908 visit by Wilbur Wright to France was vital in showing the ability of an aircraft to manoeuvre in the air, instead of just flying in a straight line.
Mr Hammond also illustrated the 1909 Bleriot flight across the channel, the first mail carrying flight in 1912 at the Nancy meeting, and many other special flights.
Among the gems displayed were pilot signatures on covers, the famous 50Fr banknote used correctly on a cover to make up the correct rate, flown Letter-Journals during
the siege, and much more.
Members who attended the last meeting, which was on St George's Day, were asked to bring something relevant to the occasion, whether it be stamps, picture postcards, memorabilia or ephemera.
The society meets in the Public Hall, Bromley Road, Beckenham.
Visitors, guests and new members are welcome.
Full details may be obtained from secretary David Rennie on 020 8778 7001 or the membership secretary Chris Sands on 020 8402 1263.
12:18pm Thursday 24th April 2008
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