De Naald - Etten-Leur

On 27 June 1909, a major step in Dutch aviation took place near Etten Leur. Count Charles de Lambert completed a successful flight in a motorised aircraft. It was the first of its kind on Dutch soil.

The idea came from sugar factory owner Sybrand Heerma van Voss. To celebrate the fortieth anniversary of his factory, he wanted to offer his employees and the public something extraordinary. He planned a flying demonstration. After earlier plans fell through, he met De Lambert. This French count was one of Wilbur Wright's students and already an experienced pilot.

On the Klappenbergse Heide, a hangar and launch field were prepared. Thousands of people gathered to watch. Despite wind and technical issues, De Lambert managed to stay in the air for around six minutes. A historic achievement, although it received little official recognition at the time.

Still, the event sparked interest in aviation across the country. It helped lead to the founding of the first Dutch aviation club and eventually to the development of an airfield near Gilze Rijen. Thanks to this flight, North Brabant earned a place in the early history of Dutch aviation.

This monument now stands here as a tribute to that event.

Photos: ©National Archive