The Wright brother's Model B replica that proudly hangs in the Army Aviation Museum was built by the Virginia Aviation Company of Warrenton, Virginia. Construction began in 1993 and was completed in 1994.

A letter sent to the Museum Curator to update the progress read as follows:

April 29, 1993

Enclosed you will find some pictures of our Wright "B" flyer project. The wings, tail and center sections are completed and assembled. At the present time, we are constructing and fitting the landing gear pieces and engine mounts. Greg has also started manufacturing the fittings for the entire aircraft.

The construction is moving along very nicely at this time.

Sincerly,
Frank Hyde

The pictures below represent a small portion of those recieved from Mr. Hyde, as well as photos received July and December of 1993, and February 1994.

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This is a good example of the quality of workmanship that went into this project. Pictured on the right is one of the original drivetrain components, along with a new piece [left] that the Virginia Aviation Company reproduced in their shop.

Laying out the tail section for assembly. Note the metal framed pattern used to ensure accuracy.

Individual wing sections have been assembled and await the next step.

Here's a close-up of the wing tip bows.

The landing gear frame is being joined to the center section of the lower wing.

Here's a view of the engine mount.

Some of the major sections are starting to come together

A good view of the flight controls. The control castings were made from original pieces.

The "Mock-Up" engine is installed along with the drive train sprockets.

A close-up view of the drive sprockets.

Here is a detail shot of one of the wing strut fittings.

Our Wright B Model replica just prior to applying the fabric.

Stretching the fabric over the upper wing.

The completed project!!!