Katharine Wright, the younger sister of Wilbur and Orville Wright, turns 150 years old on Monday, August 19th! That day is also her older brother, Orville’s birthday, and is designated National Aviation Day. Katharine was an unflappable force in her family’s lives and is heralded for her important role in encouraging and supporting her brothers’ success in inventing controlled, powered flight.
Come to the 4th floor of Dunbar Library to see an exhibit featuring Katharine’s life in photographs from the world-renowned archival collection of the Wright Brothers. You are also invited to experience original Katharine Wright photographs, letters, and memorabilia on exhibit in the Special Collections and Archives Reading Room, Tuesday-Friday between the hours of Noon-4 p.m. All are welcome!
Not able to see it in person? View Katharine Wright’s photographs and letters in the Campus Online Repository (CORE Scholar). Just click the links below to connect with history!
Katharine Wright Haskell Papers (MS-700) The digital collection consists of letters written by Katharine Wright Haskell ranging from 1922 to 1926. They contain a variety of details from her personal life, from major historical moments to minor details of her daily life and interpersonal connections. Throughout her life, Katharine assisted her brothers in their engineering and business ventures, was an activist in the first-wave feminist movement, taught high school, and was an Oberlin College Board of Trustees member.
Katharine Wright Letters (SC-117) Original and transcribed copies of letters dated 1911-1933 from Katharine Wright to friend Mrs. J.B. Guthrie (Florence).
Katharine Wright’s Correspondence with Agnes Beck (SC-97) The collection consists of eight letters written by Katharine Wright, sister of Wilbur and Orville Wright, to her close friend, Agnes Beck. The letters span 1908-1929 and discuss Wilbur and Orville Wright, their flights, the Wright Family, and other personal matters.
Wright Brothers Collection (MS-1) The Wright Brothers Collection documents the invention of the airplane, the lives of the Wright Family, and the Wrights’ flying exhibitions in Europe and the United States. Use keyword search “Katharine Wright”.
