12 - BLANCHARD, Jean-Pierre (1753–1809), balloonist; the first person to cross the English Channel in a balloon.

BLANCHARD, Jean-Pierre (1753–1809), balloonist; the first person to cross the English Channel in a balloon. L.A.S. “Blanchard,” Paris, 22 Fructidor Year VI (September 8, 1798), to Citizen Perriaux, printer in Rouen; 1½ pages, quarto, with address. An interesting letter about his ascents and other balloonists. Note: Blanchard mentions, in particular, André-Jacques GARNERIN (1769–1823), the first parachutist, along with his daughter Élisa (1791–1853), and Pierre TESTU-BRISSY (1770–1829), who made ascents while mounted on his horse. “I saw Garnerin yesterday in Monceaux with his young lady; we drank champagne together. He left for Arras this morning. For the past four days, I’ve been following the experiment involving Têtu and his horse, but I’ve condemned them both to remain on the ground. His plan is as foolish as can be. He climbed the rope yesterday at 8 p.m., but there was no horse, and on Monday, I’m quite sure he won’t show up himself. These are the kinds of people who want to ruin everything. My arrival turned Têtu’s head and sent Garnerin running; we’re awaiting my 47th ascent—you’ll see it announced soon—but God forbid I should have a horse or a companion; one would cause me trouble and the other a headache”… [Testu-Brissy’s flight on his horse took place on October 16, 1798, following several preparations in September.]