You are most welcome, Genghis! I wish I could tell you more about Francis and Gertrude, but I never met either one in person. I can tell you that the original patent for the Rogallo Wing was taken in both of their names and that many of the drawings and diagrams which I sifted through were executed and signed by Gertrude. I remain under the impression that although Francis wore the pants in the family, Gertrude was a co-equal partner, contributor, and inventress.
The largest paragliding area on the largest natural sand dune on the East coast of the United States is Jockey's Ridge State Park in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. I am told that Mr. Rogallo flew his designs there with some frequency until age caught up with him. I booked hang gliding lessons there on three separate occasions; two were cancelled for high winds and one for lightning. Now age and osteoarthritis have caught up with me - I don't believe my "undercarriage" is up for the punishment of takeoff and landing! I am jealous of you and your experience in that type of craft. I have a number of soaring hours, in craft ranging from Blanik LET L-13's to Grob 103's. I love it and wonder if hang gliding puts one even closer to being "one with the air"?
If you are interested in further research, you may contact The Outer Banks History Center at:
https://archives.ncdcr.gov/researche...history-center. Kitty Hawk Kites, a most excellent purveyor of everything from fancy kites (build the "Ghost Clipper; I did and it takes two to handle her in a strong breeze) to hang gliding lessons. Please see:
Kites - Hang Gliding Lessons - Kiteboarding Lessons - Kayak Tours | Kitty Hawk Kites.
I look forward to hearing of your adventures, Genghis! May I take this opportunity to wish you and yours a Very Merry Christmas, clear skies, and soft winds...
- Ed