Paul E. Garber First Flight Shrine
A sacred place of remembrance honoring aviation pioneers and preserving the legacy of human flight
About the Shrine
The Paul E. Garber First Flight Shrine stands as a testament to the courage, innovation, and determination of aviation pioneers who dared to dream of flight. Established in 1963 and named after renowned Smithsonian curator Paul E. Garber, the shrine serves as a place of reflection and remembrance for those who have contributed to the advancement of aviation.
Located at the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, the shrine overlooks the very ground where Wilbur and Orville Wright achieved the first powered, sustained, and controlled flight on December 17, 1903. This hallowed ground continues to inspire visitors from around the world.
The shrine not only honors the Wright Brothers but also recognizes the countless individuals who have advanced the field of aviation through their contributions, sacrifices, and dedication to the pursuit of flight.
Memorial Plaques
Bronze plaques honoring aviation pioneers and contributors to flight history
Historical Timeline
Chronological display of major aviation milestones from 1903 to present
Wright Brothers Monument
Central monument commemorating Wilbur and Orville Wright’s achievement
Reflection Garden
Peaceful space for contemplation and remembrance of aviation heroes
Honored Aviation Pioneers
Wilbur Wright
1867–1912
Co-inventor of the airplane, first powered flight pilot
Orville Wright
1871–1948
Co-inventor of the airplane, first powered flight pilot
Paul E. Garber
1899–1992
Smithsonian curator, aviation historian, shrine founder
Octave Chanute
1832–1910
Aviation pioneer, Wright Brothers mentor and correspondent
Glenn Curtiss
1878–1930
Aviation pioneer, aircraft manufacturer, speed record holder
Charles Lindbergh
1902–1974
First solo transatlantic flight, aviation advocate
Annual Events at the Shrine
Wright Brothers Day Ceremony
December 17
Annual commemoration at the shrine with wreath laying and speeches
Memorial Day Observance
Last Monday in May
Honoring aviation veterans and fallen heroes
National Aviation Day
August 19
Celebrating aviation achievements and inspiring future aviators
Shrine Dedication Anniversary
October 15
Commemorating the establishment of the Paul E. Garber First Flight Shrine