Emma Harkinson: The Forgotten Story of a Pioneering American Aviator
For over a century, the name Emma Harkinson has been etched in the annals of aviation history, yet her remarkable story remains largely overlooked. Born on January 9, 1887, in Indianapolis, Indiana, Emma’s life was marked by determination, courage, and a thirst for adventure that would take her to unprecedented heights. Emma’s journey as an aviator began during World War I, when she joined the United States Army Nurse Corps. It was here that she met her future husband, Lieutenant William Harkinson, who introduced her to the world of aviation. Emma’s initial experiences were limited to flying with male pilots, but it wasn’t long before she demonstrated a natural aptitude for the craft. In 1918, Emma became one of the first women in the United States to earn a pilot’s license, an achievement that would pave the way for generations of female aviators. Her instructor at the time was none other than Captain George W. Putnam, who would later become famous for his own flying exploits and as the husband of Amelia Earhart. Despite her groundbreaking achievements, Emma faced numerous obstacles in her pursuit of a career in aviation. The U.S. military initially refused to recognize women’s wings, forcing Emma to fight for recognition through sheer determination and perseverance. It wasn’t until 1921 that the Army Air Service officially awarded women the same privileges as men, including the right to fly solo. Emma’s success as a pilot was matched only by her passion for promoting aviation education among women. In the early 1920s, she founded the Women’s Aviation Club of Washington, which provided opportunities for female pilots to network, share experiences, and gain flying experience. The club’s mission was two-fold: not only to support the growth of women in aviation but also to encourage the development of air education programs. Throughout her life, Emma continued to push boundaries and challenge stereotypes. In 1927, she became one of the first female pilots to fly across the Atlantic Ocean, an achievement that earned her widespread recognition. Her determination and expertise had a profound impact on the early days of aviation, inspiring countless women to take up flying as a career. Despite her many achievements, Emma’s story remains largely untold. It is only in recent years that historians have begun to shed light on the remarkable life of this pioneering aviator. As we reflect on Emma Harkinson’s legacy, we are reminded of the power of determination and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Key Points:
1. Early Life and Military Service Emma was born on January 9, 1887, in Indianapolis, Indiana. She joined the United States Army Nurse Corps during World War I, where she met her future husband, Lieutenant William Harkinson. 2. Pilot’s License and Early Flight Experience In 1918, Emma became one of the first women in the United States to earn a pilot’s license. Her instructor was Captain George W. Putnam, who would later become famous for his own flying exploits. 3. Breaking Barriers in Aviation Education In the early 1920s, Emma founded the Women’s Aviation Club of Washington, which aimed to promote air education among women and provide opportunities for female pilots to network and share experiences. 4. Achievements and Legacy Throughout her life, Emma continued to push boundaries and challenge stereotypes. In 1927, she became one of the first female pilots to fly across the Atlantic Ocean, earning widespread recognition and inspiring countless women to take up flying as a career. 5. Conclusion Emma Harkinson’s remarkable story serves as a testament to the power of determination and perseverance in the face of adversity. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of female aviators and aviation enthusiasts alike, reminding us that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
