We’re thrilled to introduce our brand-new Women in Aviation display, honoring four remarkable pioneers who broke barriers, defied expectations, and boldly claimed their place in history during the early 20th century.
Carefully compiled over months of intense research, interviews, and curation, this exhibit will be a permanent feature of the museum’s Wagner Welcome Atrium. Chief Curator Hannah Shickles utlized multiple medias to present these forgotten stories in compelling, interactive ways, including creating over 24 mini-documentary chapters diving deeper; guests can use an interactive touchscreen to choose what to explore. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or simply love powerful history, this exhibit is a must-see. Discover inspiring stories, historic photographs, and fascinating artifacts that bring their journeys to life.
“As a woman pilot myself, of course I knew that many female aviators were forgotten, and tried to be well-versed in that area of history,” says Ami Eckard-Lee, the museum’s Creative Director. “However, the astonishing stories Hannah uncovered were filled with names I had never heard of. It totally opened my eyes – and I think it shows why it’s so important to bring these women’s stories to light.”
Although dozens, if not hundreds, of aviators would be great subjects for this display, curator Shickles chose to focus on four specific women, each illustrating something different and unique in women’s aviation history. Harriet Quimby set the stage for all women pilots by becoming the first female licensed pilot in the USA in 1912, publicly proving women belonged in the sky. Helen Richey blazed her way through every professional arena in aviation – including commercial airline flying, record-setting, racing, and military flying – all before 1947. Willa Brown’s accomplishments as a pilot, mechanic, and leader in military and aviation organizations as a Black woman stood out long before the civil rights movement. And local legend Jeanne Scholes, still a fixture at the Brodhead airport at age 97, became one of the first women in this area to fly, casually breaking barriers and inspiring others (all while remaining cheerful and optimistic) starting at age 16.
Together, the stories of these women show the diverse and remarkable ways women shaped aviation history – and how the freedom of aviation shaped women’s rights in the USA and beyond.
Additionally, this March the museum is also presenting a new displays highlighting museum founders Al and Lois Kelch, to help illustrate the story of how the museum came to be; new artifacts from Brodhead airport founder Bill Earleywine; and a handmade Golden Age aircraft model collection.
Come and explore these exciting new exhibits! The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm. Learn more at www.kelchmuseum.org.
