My girlhood heroine was and will always be the American aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart. After seeing my first air fair in Leavenworth, Kansas I became infatuated with Amelia. Amelia made me realize that I can succeed at anything I set my mind to. Amelia went after her dreams and succeeded in a male-dominated field. Amelia Earhart is primarily known as the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, but to me she represents soaring dreams and hopes for girls of all ages.
Amelia will always be a big part of my life, because her hometown is just a short drive away from me. Amelia Earhart was born at her grandparents’ home on July 24, 1897 in Atchison, Kansas. Amelia was first interested in a medical education to train as a nurse, but after visiting an air fair she was drawn into flying. Like Amelia, I was also drawn into my field of study and I know that as long as I try I can succeed.
In 1928, Amelia was selected to be the first female passenger on a transatlantic flight by her future husband, George Putnam. After flying solo across the Atlantic in 1932, Amelia began designing clothing for active women and published two books. Although Amelia disappeared over the Pacific Ocean on July 2, 1937 during a flight around the world, she will always be remembered for being forward-thinking in the world of aviation and dreams.
-Samantha Bradbeer
For more information, check out the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum.
Visit us tomorrow to learn about a heroine who devoted her life to learning about another species.