"Aeronautics" in the London Encyclopaedia, 1837

"Aeronautics" (pp. 186–206) in The London Encyclopædia, or Universal Dictionary of Science, Art, Literature, and Practical Mechanics [etc.]. Vol. 1 London: Printed for T. Tegg & Son, 73, Cheapside. 1837.

Online at Internet Archive.

Twenty big pages surveying the history of ballooning and the present state of aircraft design.

The authors concurs with a contemporary edition of Encyclopedia Brittanica that many would-be aero inventors of old were Catholic priests. Both seclusion and acquaintance with the 'miraculous' are thought to explain. (¶12)