Ruth Elder facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ruth Elder
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Ruth Elder
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Ruth Elder
September 8, 1902 Anniston, Alabama, U.S.
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| Died | October 9, 1977 (aged 75) San Francisco
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| Nationality | American |
| Known for | Early aviation records, including first woman to attempt transatlantic flight; film star |
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| Children | 1 |
Ruth Elder (born September 8, 1902 – died October 9, 1977) was a brave aviation pioneer and a talented actress. She held a private pilot's license and was even called the "Miss America of Aviation." She was also a founding member of the Ninety-Nines, a group for women pilots.
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Ruth Elder's Daring Flights
The Transatlantic Attempt
In October 1927, Ruth Elder set off from New York. Her goal was to be the first woman to fly across the Atlantic Ocean. She flew in a plane called the American Girl, with George Haldeman as her pilot.
During their flight, they faced mechanical problems. They had to land their plane in the ocean, about 360 miles from the Azores islands. Even though they didn't make it all the way across, they set a new record. They flew 2,623 miles over water, which was the longest flight by a woman at that time.
A ship rescued Ruth and George. When they returned home, people celebrated them with a big parade in New York City!
Flying in the Women's Air Derby
In 1929, Ruth Elder joined the very first Women's Air Derby. This was a race just for women pilots. She flew her own plane, a Swallow, and finished in fifth place. This showed her skill and determination as a pilot.
Life Beyond the Cockpit
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After her famous flight, Ruth became very popular. She gave many speeches and even got a movie contract! She starred in films like Moran of the Marines (1928) and The Winged Horseman (1929).
Ruth Elder was married several times and had one son, William Trent Gillespie. Later in her life, she worked as an executive secretary in the aviation industry. She was even hired by the famous businessman Howard Hughes.
Her Lasting Legacy
Ruth Elder's story continues to inspire people. In 2013, a book for young readers called Flying Solo: How Ruth Elder Soared into America's Heart was published. This book tells her amazing journey.
Her life also inspired the character of Ruth Darrow in the "Ruth Darrow Flying Stories" book series. In 2016, her story was shared again in a novel called Crossing the Horizon. Ruth Elder showed the world that women could achieve great things in aviation and beyond.
