Bob Begin—Amelia Earhart, an American Icon

Born in Kansas in 1897, this daughter of the prairies become one of the world's most accomplished aviator’s. In her early years, she loved traveling on trains and fast automobiles. She loved speed and was fascinated by aeroplanes, that new mode of transit that was became more commonplace following the end of the Great War. Her first experiences were as a passenger for small rides at county fairs. Ultimately her thirst for flight would consume her and become the major love of her life.

In the 1920s, America was booming. The economy was surging, the Market was on fire, and things were good. More importantly America was looking for heroes. On May 21, 1927, Charles A. Lindbergh would become the first to fly solo across the Atlantic. Within a year, plans were being made for a woman to be the first to cross. At this time, living in the Boston area, Amelia Earhart, came to the attention of the sponsors of a flight across the Atlantic who had the stipulation that a woman must be onboard. Amelia was chosen and on June 18th, 1928, the aircraft Friendship, after a flight of 20 hours, completed its journey and she became the first woman to cross the Atlantic on a plane.

Fame, celebrity, endorsements, all fell upon her. In Boston a parade with crowds estimated in excess of 250,000 celebrated her deeds. She was fearless, determined, and was fortunate to have help from influential people. One of whom would be her publicist and husband, George Putnam. This fame launched her career to shatter records in women flight. From 1928 through 1937, she would fly all over the world. Her final and most ambitious flight would be to solo across the globe in 1937. This goal was never completed as she and her navigator were lost in the Pacific. In her relatively brief career, Amelia left a huge, unequaled list of accomplishments. Her efforts to advance opportunities for women were significant. This shy, charismatic, soft spoken girl from Kansas left her mark on the world. Lastly, we in the Boston area were fortunate to claim her as one of our own.

This event is sponsored by the Library Foundation of Needham.