Published March 28, 2017
Harriet Qumiby (1875 - 1912) was a woman who wasn't afraid to try new things. She pioneered many paths for women. She was a writer, a critic, listed herself as an actress, and worked as a photojournalist.
These activities kept her on the forefront of the news of the times. She was able to follow and join in many exciting opportunities that presented themselves.
In 1910, she interviewed a pilot, and discovered that she wanted to fly. She was the first licensed female pilot in the US. Only one other woman in the world had received her license at that time.
Flying was a rather new opportunity for anyone. In fact, to increase awareness of flying, many pilots put on fancy shows to demonstrate their skills. She was no exception. At least there, on dancing on the tip of a plane wing, she was allowed to wear pants rather than a dress, which would have ended up wrapped around her face, and possibly caught in the wings, causing a crash.
Her biggest glory was eclipsed by the sinking of the Titanic. The was the first solo flight by a woman across the English Channel.
Less than three months later, on June 1, 1902, she and her passenger were killed during an air show. Her work was considered an inspiration for other female pilots of the time including Amelia Earhart whose plane was lost during a flight around the world in 1937.
Works Cited: All Accessed on 02/23/17
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