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SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION  802
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"I wish particularly to call your attention to this engine, for if the Wright Brothers were geniuses in the science of aerodynamics, as well as in the engineering judgment and good sense which characterized the conduct of their successive experiments, and if Glenn Curtiss was the practical type of engine designer most likely to succeed, Charles Matthews Manly was certainly the outstanding genius of early power-plant design.  When we consider that the most popular type of airplane engine of today is almost identical in its general detail and arrangement with the one evolved by Charles Manly in 1902, we are lost in admiration for a man who, with no data at his disposal, no examples of similar art on which to roughly base his design, and no workmen capable of making the more difficult parts of his engine, nevertheless, through the processes of a logical mind, the intelligent application of the science of mathematics, and the use of his surprising mechanical skill, succeeded in constructing an engine developing 52.4 hp. for a weight of 125 lb., or a weight of 2.4 lb per hp., which stood up under severe tests, once even going through a full power, non-stop run of ten hours."

After giving many details Mr. Lawrance concludes:

"Everything had to be specifically made, the ignition system, the carburetor, and even the spark plugs.  This engine may indeed be characterized as the first "modern" aircraft engine in the world, and the fact that it was produced years ahead of any other modern engine, and by an American engineer, should be a matter of pride to all who are interested in the advancement of American aeronautics and the mechanical genius of the American people."

You will recall that the Langley Gold Medal was established in 1908 primarily to honor the Wright Brothers, to whom it was awarded on February 10, 1909. Since then it has been awarded to Glenn Curtiss and Gustave Eiffel in 1913; and to Colonel Lindbergh in 1927.

The objects to be honored by such awards are stated to be "for specially meritorious investigations in connection with the science of aerodromics and its application to aviation".

Charles M. Manly, as the Regents will recall, was Secretary Langley's associate in aeronautic investigations from 1898 to 1903, and compiled the large quarto Langley Memorial volume published in 1911.  Mr. Manly twice risked his life in attempted flights in 1903.  Has also carried on under Langley's direction a long series of laboratory investigations.
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