I developed a minor interest in balloon history having photographed a new memorial plaque on Canal Street in Nottingham for this Aviation Memorials in Nottinghamshire publication.

Text from the booklet reads:

“This plaque was unveiled by the Sheriff of Nottingham on Saturday 30th November 2013 to mark one of Nottinghamshire’s earliest aviation events; the 200th Anniversary of the first successful balloon flight from Nottingham.

The plaque has been located close to what is believed to have been the original launch site for the balloon back in 1813. It is understood that thousands of people travelled to Nottingham to witness the balloon flight, which was made by James Sadler on 1st November 1813.

Approval to get the plaque sited in the city was secured by the Nottingham Civic Society and the East Midlands Balloon Group.”