Near Dayton in Greene County, Ohio — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
Commuter Flyers
The Wright Brothers
Photographed by Craig Baker, April 18, 2021
1. Commuter Flyers Marker
Wilbur and Orville Wright rode a trolley here almost every day - except Sundays - during the 1904 and 1905 flying seasons. It was ten miles from their West Dayton home to this stop in the middle of what was then open farm country. Here, in the privacy of a cow pasture, they would do some of their greatest work - perfecting their flying machine.
The Interurban electric trolley made it possible for the Wright brothers to haul tools, materials, and parts for their flying machines here to Huffman Prairie.
I used to chat with (the Wright brothers) in a friendly way...because I sort of felt sorry for them. They seemed like well-meaning, decent enough young men. Yet there they were, neglecting their business to waste their time day after day on that ridiculous flying-machine. I had an idea that it must worry their father.
Luther Beard, Dayton Journal writer.
Erected by National Park Service - U.S. Department of the Interior.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Air & Space • Railroads & Streetcars. A significant historical year for this entry is 1904.
Location. 39° 48.421′ N, 84° 3.848′ W.
this page online
Regionally, this marker is in Ohio’s Miami Valley. It is also in the American Midwest and in the Corn Belt. Globally, it is in North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) Confederacy, the territory of the Mississippian Culture, and the Northwest Territory.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Birthplace of Flight (a few steps from this marker); Huffman Prairie Flying Field (within shouting distance of this marker); Corner Boundary No. 6 (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); a different marker also named Huffman Prairie Flying Field
Photographed by Craig Baker, April 18, 2021
2. Marker and Trolley Station Replica
More about this marker. In 2026 work was underway rebuilding various structures in this area, including this one. The marker might be temporarily relocated until work is completed.
Credits. This page was last revised on June 18, 2026. It was originally submitted on April 22, 2021, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. This page has been viewed 434 times since then and 38 times this year. Last updated on October 8, 2025, by Craig Doda of Napoleon, Ohio. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on April 22, 2021, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. • Devry Becker Jones was the editor who published this page.
Editor’s want-list for this marker. A recent photo of the site and the marker. • Can you help?
