Henry Melly Merseyside pioneer

[soonguy]

Hi, just wondering if anyone can answer a longshot question. On 11 July 1913, the King and Queen visited Liverpool and reviewed a large fleet of anchored vessels. Above them flew local aviation pioneer Henry Melly and his wife Ellen in a Bleriot two-seater. The following day, he took a place to the centre of Liverpool as a static exhibit. Does anyone know of any photos of either event, or the location in Liverpool where the plane was exhibited? Grateful thanks.

[134brat]

Hi soonguy
I have had a look at my copy of 'British Aviation-The Pioneer Years' by Harald Penrose and was very surprised to find that Mr Melly doesn't get a mention anywhere in this book.

Next attempt was Dallas-Bretts History of British Aviation where Melly is mentioned in four entries but none that are relevant to your question. He flew from two locations (Freshfields and Waterloo) near Liverpool.

I can only suggest that you try to get your hands on a publication about early aviation in the northwest (if you haven't already) or maybe local historians in Liverpool.
Sorry l can't be more help, Mr M was a genuine pioneer and deserves to be better known.

[treadigraph]

Probably related to George Melly of jazz fame - granddad's brother, something like that.

[soonguy]

Thanks so much guys.

I've found that Flight International is digitised going right back, and Melly was a frequent contributor. Pioneers like him would submit news about what flights they had take. He did indeed submit his flights over the Mersey and the royal visit. But as a new user, I don't seem to be able to even post a graphic.

Yes, Henry Melly was I think related to George Melly. He retired to Crosby. His daughter only died 11 years ago. The family still has two of the propellors from his Bleriots.

Best wishes

Tony

[UV]

Born and bred just a mile or so away from that aerodrome at Waterloo, near Crosby. Never knew anything about it!

You may find this interesting ...

https://liverpoolflyingschool.com/docs/2011_henry_melly.pdf

Plenty more about him on google.

[soonguy]

Thanks. He posted in 1911 Flight Magazine some of what must have been the earliest aerial photos of the Mersey. Fascinating story. Seems that no one has actually published his full biography.