Hugh Willoughby and his Hydro-Aeroplane

PERMANENT EXHIBIT

A Pioneer’s Lifelong Passion for Flight

High above the Stuart Main Street gallery soars a remarkable piece of aviation history — a full-scale replica of the Pelican Hydro-Aeroplane, designed right here in 1911 by Martin County resident and aviation trailblazer Hugh Willoughby. A visionary inventor, Willoughby held 14 patents for aircraft innovations and pushed the boundaries of early flight.

The stunning replica was masterfully crafted by renowned builder Ken Kellett, famed for creating the first airworthy reproduction of the Wright Brothers’ 1903 Flyer — and becoming the first person since the Wrights themselves to pilot it.

Step inside and witness the daring spirit and inventive genius that helped shape the dawn of aviation.

All permanent exhibits are included with regular Elliott Museum admission.