The forgotten flight pioneer: Berblinger and his dream of flying!

The forgotten flight pioneer: Berblinger and his dream of flying!

Ulm, Deutschland - Albrecht Ludwig Berblinger, better known as the tailor of Ulm, celebrates his 255th birthday on June 24, 2025. Born in Ulm in 1770, this extraordinary man not only perfected the art of tailoring, but also carried his technical skills into the air. He was a real pioneer of flying, whose visions and ambitions met with little understanding at the time. So Berblinger not only dealt with the tailor, but also developed interesting products such as leg prosthes and strollers, which underlines its versatile talents.

It was particularly remarkable to fly over the Danube. He originally planned to jump from one of the towers of the Ulm cathedral, but his plans were thwarted by a clergyman. Instead, Berblinger opted for a high wall on the Danube, which he opened with a self -made wooden framework in order to create the necessary "fly wind". As WDR led an unexpected temperature difference between the river and the country to the fatal crash, as Berbling in May 1811 jumped with its self -made wings from a height of around 20 meters.

The failed flight attempt

The Berbling's attempt to fly should take place during the visit of King Frederick I of Württemberg in May 1811. The Ulm citizens were optimistic and did not want to embarrass himself in front of the king. The approval of the royal authorities was necessary for the attempt, which is why the preparations were thoroughly thought out. Even if Berblinger had previously carried out successful sliding exercises on the Michelsberg, the big day was shaped by nervousness. Before the jump, Berblinger found that a wing was damaged and explained that he could not fly.

The tension was noticeable for everyone involved. As Ulm.de , the king showed understanding of the Situation and gifts with 20 Louisdor to appreciate his efforts. However, this was only a small consolation, because after his failed attempt the tailor was showered with ridicule and mockery. His ideas were dismissed as ridiculous, and the recognition of his contribution to flying was long in coming.

A look into the future

Today Albrecht Berblinger is recognized as the flight pioneer, who was at least a hundred years ahead of his time. The head of the Ulm City Archives, Michael Wettengel, continues to emphasize how important it is to preserve and celebrate the legacy of this unique man in the future, because Berblinger's dreams were far more than just fleeting ideas. They were an inspiring example of creativity and determination.

The story of the "Schneider von Ulm" shows us that it is worth holding on to his dreams, even if the path is stony. So we go to the streets of Ulm or Cologne today and we celebrate this impressive pioneer, the visions of which ultimately laid the basis for the flight technique.