I have a friend here in OHIO that built a 1905 Wright fFyer. It was a true 100% replica that he flew at least 60 flights in it. He built the exact derrick that had a rail extending out from as a catapult. There was an 1,500 Lb weight that he dropped to shoot it up to speed. I had crewed for him many times as it took about 6 to 8 people to stage it for flight.
He cast the engine, It was 100% as the Wrights did in 1905. Same materials, HP & Props. & all.
He crashed it at Hoffman Prairie @ Dayton on a practice flight. His name is Mark Dusenberry, and there is several clips on him on the NASA site. He didn't fare too well as he is now in a wheelchair.