Amelia Earhart wore these flight goggles as she competed in the 1929 Women's National Air Derby, one of the first air races for women. She did not wear them for very long, however: the goggles were taken from her airplane during a stop at San Bernardino, California shortly after the race began in Santa Monica. They were later found with the lenses missing. Accompanying the goggles were a program from the Women's Air Derby and a note addressed to Earhart verifying her as the goggles' original owner. In 1957 the goggles, race program, and note were all donated to the Smithsonian.

Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.

Object Details

Date

ca. 1920-1930s

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Helmets & Headwear

Owner

Amelia Earhart

Manufacturer

Protector

Physical Description

Metal frame with leather padding and adjustable elastic band.

Dimensions

3-D: 19.1 x 2.5 x 5.1cm (7 1/2 x 1 x 2 in.)

Materials

Steel, glass, and elastic

Inventory Number

A19580054000

Credit Line

Gift of Richard Evans

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonian’s Terms of Use.

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