Women’s History Month is a time to honor all women who have paved a path, gone against the grain, and shattered glass ceilings. Enter Bessica (Bessie) Raiche. She was a trailblazer whose passion for aviation soared against the headwinds of societal norms. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we’re shining a spotlight on Bessie and her incredible journey in the aviation industry.
BESSICA RAICHE WAS BORN IN APRIL OF 1875 IN BELOIT, WISCONSIN.
Growing up in a time when women were expected to adhere to traditional roles, Bessie dared to be different. She drove cars, wore bloomers, and enjoyed swimming and shooting.
As a young adult, Bessie moved out East where she became a dentist and physician. She was also an accomplished painter and linguist. But her most impressive accomplishment (in our humble opinion) came in 1910 when she became the first woman to fly an airplane in a solo flight.
Bessie and her husband began building a Wright-type biplane in their living room and assembled it in their front yard. In September of 1910, at just 35 years old, Bessie took flight in Hempstead Plaines, New York.
"The following month she was awarded a diamonded-studded gold medal with “First Woman Aviator in America” etched into it by the Aeronautical Society of America at a dinner held in her honor."
Bessie’s courageous flight marked a significant milestone for women in aviation, inspiring future generations of female pilots, including Amelia Earhart. Her passion for flying extended beyond her solo flight. She continued to pursue aviation by participating in air shows and competitions, defying societal expectations and challenging the notion that aviation was only for men.
Bessie’s journey paved the way for future female aviators, proving that the sky really is the limit when it comes to pursuing one’s dreams.
