To preserve the history of women in aviation, the Ninety-Nines Museum of Women Pilots is launching a worldwide fundraising campaign. Its “Wings for History” endowment fund is asking for donations of airplanes. Helen Holbird of Oklahoma City was the first donor. Money from the sale of her Cessna 172 initiated the museum’s new endowment.
The museum plans to discover, preserve and display artifacts reflecting the heritage, achievements and adventures of women pilots. “Women have made a significant contribution to the advancement and field of aviation. I want to make sure that it’s not forgotten,” said Holbird. “By donating my airplane, I’m assuring that aviation history and the legacy of so many women who came before me will remain preserved and live on for generations to come.”
Donations to “Wings for History” are tax deductible and will be used to develop and preserve the museum.
“We are accepting donations of all sizes,” said Margie Richison, museum chairman. “We all have to hang up our wings someday, so we would like aircraft owners to consider leaving their planes to the museum. By donating an airplane, benefactors establish their own legacies and help ensure that the history of women in aviation will live on.”
The museum houses significant artifacts including some of Amelia Earhart’s personal possessions.