Pancho Barnes

About

Aviatrix who broke Amelia Earhart's air speed record and took part in the Women's Air Derby.

Before Fame

She drove her cousin to flying lessons and decided during this period to learn to fly herself.

Trivia

Her well-publicized aviation accomplishments inspired generations of female pilots.

Family Life

She was married four times and had several children. One of her sons opened an aviation business near Los Angeles, California.

Associated With

She was one of the inspirations behind Tom Wolfe's well-received book The Right Stuff, which was later adapted into a film.