The Jacqueline Cochran Collection, 1908-1980

Printable guide [HTML]

Summary

Creators:
Cochran, Jacqueline, 1906?-1980
Abstract:
This collection contains papers relating to Jacqueline Cochran's distinguished aviation career. Cochran earned her pilot's license in 1932 and went on to help form the Women Airforce Service Pilots group during World War II.
Extent:
0.4 Linear feet 1 manuscript box
Language:
and English
Preferred citation:

[Item], Jacqueline Cochran Collection, Archives, San Diego Air & Space Museum

Background

Scope and content:

This collection covers Jacqueline Cochran’s admirable career as a pilot and speed record holder, and covers her many valuable contributions to the aviation world. This collection contains the certificates, awards and honors earned by Cochran throughout her distinguished career, as well as some newspaper clippings and photographs. The materials cover the time span of Cochran’s career, from 1939 until 1978, and consists of a variety of materials relating to the life and achievements of this great aviator.

Biographical / historical:

Orphaned at an early age, the exact date of “Jackie” Cochran’s birth is unknown. However, we do know that her most distinguished aviation career began in 1932 when she obtained her pilot’s license after only three weeks of instruction. From this point on, she dedicated her life to aviation. Participating in her first air race in 1934, she earned the respect of fellow pilots for her competitive spirit and high skill. Her performance in various aviation events of the 1930s is legendary. Cochran is credited with many significant flight accomplishments attained during her flying career. Among these is her 1964 flight in the F-104 Starfighter where she established a speed record of 1,429 miles per hour. At the beginning of World War II she became a Wing Commander in the British Auxiliary Transport Service, ferrying U.S. built Hudson bombers to England. With the U.S. entry into the War, she offered her services to the Army Air Corps and formed the famed Women’s Air Force Service Pilots. This group, over 1,000 strong, played a major role in the delivery of aircraft to the combat areas throughout the world. For this service she was awarded the U.S. Distinguished Service Medal. Some of the honors she has been accorded include the Harmon trophy, the General William E. Mitchell Award, Gold Medal of the Federation Aeronauteque, and decorations from the numerous other countries.

Acquisition information:
The materials in this Collection were donated to the San Diego Air and Space Museum.
Rules or conventions:
Describing Archives: A Content Standard

Access and use

Restrictions:

The collection is open to researchers by appointment.

Terms of access:

Some copyright may be reserved. Consult with the library director for more information.

Preferred citation:

[Item], Jacqueline Cochran Collection, Archives, San Diego Air & Space Museum

Location of this collection:
2001 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park
San Diego, CA 92101, US
Contact:
(619) 234-8291
archives@sdasm.org
Website