Imagine a world where flight was just a dream. Here at the Henry Villard Plaque, we honor a man who dared to chase that dream. Who was Henry Villard? Why does this plaque commemorate him?
Henry Villard was a French engineer. He was born in Torteron in 1869. Villard died in Cahors in 1916. He dedicated his life to inventing an autogyro. This was an early type of helicopter.
Villard’s story is one of innovation and perseverance. He designed an autogyro. He tested it in the courtyard of Schaerbeek’s town hall. This was in 1901. The tests were unsuccessful. Yet, Villard didn’t give up.
He presented his plans for a disco-helicopter. It was called “Le Nouvel Aviateur.” Prince Albert of Belgium was fascinated. In 1903, the Prince helped Villard build his flying machine. This machine had a 25CV Buchet engine. It also featured two circular wings. They rotated in opposite directions.
Villard showcased his creation at the 1903 Salon de l’Automobile. He hoped to finally make it fly. Sadly, “Le Nouvel Aviateur” never took off.
Undeterred, Villard continued his work. By 1913, he was developing another helicopter. He called it Ornis. During tests, the rear wheels lifted slightly off the ground. The machine weighed 400 kilos. It was 2.7 meters in diameter.
In 1914, Villard built a second model. Its frame was made of steel tubes. A radial engine was mounted on a tripod. The pilot could shift the aircraft’s center of gravity. A small tail rotor was also included.
The German invasion of Belgium ended Villard’s experiments. He returned to France. He joined the 6th Artillery Regiment. In 1916, Brigadier Félix Henri Villard died. He succumbed to his injuries in Cahors.
This Henry Villard Plaque marks where Villard tirelessly pursued his vision. He wanted to make vertical flight a reality. Though he never fully succeeded, his work paved the way for future aviation pioneers. It is a reminder that even in the face of failure, the pursuit of innovation is a noble endeavor. The street where this Henry Villard Plaque is located, was designed in 1903. It was built in the early 1920s. The Henry Villard Plaque itself is located at the corner of the street. It stands on the side of the building at 81 Avenue Paul Deschanel. As you leave here, consider Villard’s dedication. Consider the spirit of invention that still thrives today.