Louise Thaden

Louise McPhetridge Thaden's remarkable story embodies the pioneering spirit that defines aviation. Born in Bentonville in 1905, she learned to fly at a time when few women dared to enter the cockpit. Her achievements opened doors for generations of aviators and continue to inspire today.

Historic Achievements:

  • First woman to win the Bendix Trophy (1936)

  • Set multiple women's air speed records

  • Women's altitude record holder

  • Transcontinental speed record

  • National Air Race champion

  • Aviation Hall of Fame inductee

  • Author and aviation advocate

  • Pioneering test pilot

  • Personal History

Born in Bentonville, Louise developed an early fascination with machinery and speed. Working for Travel Air Manufacturing Company, she earned her pilot's license in 1927. Within a year, she began setting records that would cement her place in aviation history.

Notable Records:

  • Women's altitude record: 20,260 feet (1928)

  • Women's endurance record: 22 hours, 3 minutes (1929)

  • Women's speed record: 156.51 mph (1929)

  • Bendix Trophy victory: 14 hours, 55 minutes coast-to-coast (1936)

Modern building with a large, illuminated sign reading 'FIELDHOUSE', featuring an airplane inside visible through large glass windows, with parked cars in the foreground and a sunset sky in the background.
Black and white photo of a smiling race car driver with goggles, waving from inside a vintage race car.

Continuing the Legacy

Education Programs:

  • Thaden Scholars program

  • Youth aviation initiatives

  • STEM education partnerships

  • Flight training scholarships

  • Women in aviation support

  • Historical preservation

  • Research grants

  • Mentorship opportunities

Community Engagement

  • Annual Thaden Day celebration

  • Historical exhibits

  • Educational lectures

  • Youth programs

  • Aviation workshops

  • Documentary screenings

  • Archive preservation

  • Oral history project