Women in Aviation History: Marjorie Crawford, Early Woman Aviator and Member of the Ninety Nines, 1929

Woman Aviator Photo

Photograph

Marjorie Crawford, American aviator active during the 1920s and 1930s, photographed on May 23, 1929, during a period of increasing participation by women in American aviation. Crawford was associated with the Ninety-Nines, an organization of licensed women pilots founded later that year to promote professional opportunities, mutual assistance, and the advancement of women in flight. The organization, whose first president was Amelia Earhart, established its original purpose as “good fellowship, jobs, and a central office and files on women in aviation.” Crawford's photograph predates the organization's founding on November 2, 1929, placing her documented aviation activity within the formative period of organized women's aviation in the United States.
Original black-and-white gelatin silver press photograph, dated May 23, 1929, measuring 8½ x 6½ inches. Crawford stands beside an airplane, identifying her with the aircraft and the emerging profession of female aviation. The verso bears a pencil inscription reading in part, “Marjorie Crawford Aviator,” together with additional inscriptions and press stamps. Produced for contemporary newspaper or editorial use, the photograph preserves both Crawford's likeness and the identification and distribution markings associated with early aviation photojournalism.
By 1929, women aviators were competing in national air races, establishing flight records, and seeking greater access to professional aviation. That August, the first Women's National Air Derby brought together female pilots in a transcontinental competition, while the establishment of the Ninety-Nines in November created a formal network for licensed women flyers. Crawford's dated press portrait records her participation in aviation before these developments and preserves contemporary evidence of the press's coverage of women pilots. Small tear to the right edge margin, not affecting the image. Verso inscriptions and press stamps preserved. Very good condition.

Item #16477

Price: $120.00