June 12

On June 12, 1817, Karl von Drais unveiled his Laufmaschine or “running machine,” later nicknamed the dandy horse. This contraption featured two aligned wheels connected by a wooden frame without pedals, steered by a handlebar. Riders propelled the vehicle by pushing their feet against the ground in a walking or running motion. Von Drais’s invention addressed the need for faster personal transport following a shortage of horses. Although it did not achieve immediate commercial success, the dandy horse paved the way for the development of modern bicycles. Its design principles influenced wheel alignment, steering mechanisms, and the later addition of pedals.

On June 12, 1939, Paramount Pictures commenced production of Dr. Cyclops, a pioneering horror film shot entirely in three-strip Technicolor. Directed by Ernest B. Schoedsack, the movie followed a scientist who shrinks his colleagues to miniature size in a jungle laboratory. The use of vibrant color technology set a new standard for genre filmmaking and captivated audiences with its lush visuals. Dr. Cyclops demonstrated Hollywood's technological advancements on the eve of World War II. The film's success paved the way for future color horror and science fiction productions.

The Gossamer Albatross, designed by aerospace engineer Dr. Paul MacCready, was built for maximum lightness and efficiency. Bryan Allen pedaled the fragile craft from England to France, covering 22 miles in just under three hours. This feat followed the first Kremer Prize won by the Gossamer Condor in 1977, further advancing human-powered flight research. The achievement demonstrated the potential of innovative, energy-efficient aircraft and human endurance. The Kremer Prizes were established to spur progress in human-powered aviation. Allen’s successful crossing remains a landmark in aerospace history and engineering ingenuity. The Gossamer Albatross is now displayed at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.