History of Kites

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Kites appeared over three thousand years ago, in China. All necessary materials were found there, for its making: Bamboo for the frame, and silk for the sail and bridle. It had a mythical and religious dimension.

From China, the kite spread throughout Asia, then later, in Europe, and now, in the modern age, in America, Australia and other countries. The people of the South Sea Islands used to use the kite to fish. In Europe, unlike Asia, kites were regarded simply as harmless toys for children to play with.

Later, it was used as a scientific instrument for various projects. American diplomat and scientist Benjamin Franklin experimented with kites to investigate atmospheric electricity. Kite studies were also made by the American physicist and inventor Alexander Graham Bell. In the early 1890's and continuing for about 40 years, box kites, made up from two or more connected open-ended boxes, were used for sending meteorological instruments high up to measure wind velocity, temperature, barometric pressure, and humidity.

On November 12, 1894, Lawrence Hargrave, an Australian, was lifted from the ground by a train of four of his "cellular kites". This was simply one stage in his quest for a stable lifting surface that could then be powered and used as a means of transportation. Hargrave was doing his utmost to invent the aeroplane! Hargrave developed several styles of kites and gliders, refined and developed the concept of curved surface wings, and also invented the rotary engine. He never patented any of his inventions, preferring them to be available for the advancement of mankind. He made scathing attacks on people who experimented in secrecy with the intention of profiting from their inventions, accusing them of trying to exploit humanity.

On November 7 1903, Samuel Franklin Cody actually crossed the English Channel on a vessel towed by kites. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries kites were used for lifting military observers to heights from which they could observe the disposition of enemy forces. During World War II (1939-1945), kites were also used as gunnery targets. French Military kites have long been popular with kite fliers. Their lifting power and stability make them ideal for high altitude flying.