In collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution, Corgi, the venerable diecast metal toy manufacturer, have collectively produced a scale replica, diecast metal collection of renowned aircraft and spacecraft displayed in the Washington, D.C. based Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. Designed in England to exacting standards with extraordinary detail and quality that will satisfy any ardent aeronautic or space enthusiast, the Smithsonian Collection by Corgi is perfect for older children and novice collectors.
The Smithsonian Collection by Corgi Blériot XI Monoplane, which measures approximately 3-1/4-inches long with a 3-7/8-inch wingspan, is a period correct, accurate reproduction of the actual aircraft, and features detailed graphics and markings. A Display Stand is included.
According to the Smithsonian, the Blériot XI was designed primarily by Raymond Saulnier, but it was a natural evolution from earlier Blériot aircraft, and one to which Louis Blériot himself made substantial contributions. Blériot achieved immortality in the Blériot XI on July 25th, 1909, when he made the first airplane crossing of the English Channel, covering 40 km (25 mi) between Calais and Dover in 36 minutes, 30 seconds.
The Blériot XI in the National Air and Space Museum's collection was manufactured in 1914 and was powered by a 50-horsepower Gnôme rotary engine. The airplane was purchased by the Swiss aviator, John Domenjoz, a Blériot company flight instructor. Domenjoz earned a reputation as one of the era's most celebrated stunt pilots, performing in major European cities and in North and South America through 1916, at which time he returned to France. Following war time service as a civilian flight instructor, both in France and the United States, Domenjoz made one final barnstorming tour with his Blériot in 1919.
