Distinguished Deltas: Louise McPhetridge Thaden

Louise McPhetridge Thaden was born in Bentonville, Arkansas in November of 1905. She studied at the University of Arkansas from 1921-1925, where she pledged the Delta Iota chapter of Delta Delta Delta.

Growing up, Thaden always had a passion for aviation and traveling. In 1927, she had the opportunity to work with the Travel Air Corporation and, she received her pilot's license the next year. This means she was the fourth female transport pilot in the United States. Just one year later in 1929, she set her first world record, reaching an altitude of 20,260 feet. She would also learn and fly with other female pilots like Amelia Earhart.

During her career, Thaden, along with Amelia Earhart would form an international organization for female pilots to encourage and inspire younger women. This group was called the Ninety-Nines.

In the following years, she married and had two children. As she stepped away from flying to care for her family, she also spent time writing memoirs, books and articles for newspapers and magazines.

Now, the municipal airport in Bentonville, Arkansas is named in honor of Thaden. She is one of the founding members of the Arkansas Aviation Hall of Fame. She passed away in 1979, leaving a big legacy behind. She currently has scholarships available for other Tri Delta members, along with aviation scholarships for women with a passion for flying.

It is so interesting to get to learn about our sisters in the past and all of their accomplishments. If you want to learn more information about Louise Thaden, click here to read how the official Tri Delta website has detailed her life.