Harry Hodges’ Failed High Bridge Glider Attempt – Early Experimental Aviation Photo

This vintage photograph captures Harry Hodges moments before his ill-fated attempt to demonstrate a homemade glider by leaping from High Bridge in New York City. The image, produced by Photocraft News Co. of New Haven, Connecticut, shows Hodges standing with arms extended, fabric wings outstretched, moments before testing his unconventional design.

According to the original printed caption, the wind pressure collapsed the glider as soon as Hodges left the bridge, ending the flight immediately. While unsuccessful, such daring stunts were part of the experimental spirit of early aviation, when inventors often risked life and limb to test their ideas.

The photograph is both a humorous and poignant reminder of the trial-and-error process that characterized mankind’s pursuit of flight in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

• Date: Circa early 1900s

• Location: New York City – High Bridge

• Photographer/Producer: Photocraft News Co., New Haven, Connecticut

• Format: Vintage gelatin silver photograph with printed caption attached at bottom

• Condition: Very good — sharp focus and detail; minimal toning from age

An excellent conversation piece for collectors of experimental aviation, early human flight attempts, and unusual aeronautical history.