In an impressive feat of early aviation ingenuity, Alfred P Maxfield, a motor engineer based on Victoria Road in Aston, reportedly managed to climb to an altitude of 50 feet in a flying machine of his own creation back in 1909. This remarkable achievement took place at Castle Bromwich, marking a significant yet little-known milestone in the area’s aviation history.
Maxfield’s success predates the official opening of Birmingham’s Elmdon Airport-now known as Birmingham Airport-by almost three decades. While the airport opened its doors to the public much later, Maxfield’s pioneering efforts showcase how local inventors contributed to the early development of flight long before commercial air travel became established in the region.
His experiments and mechanical skills as a motor engineer highlight the spirit of innovation present in Aston at the start of the 20th century, illustrating a fascinating chapter in the local community’s contribution to aeronautical history.