Martha Croninger: An Early Aviator

Martha Croninger was born on February 25, 1910, in Covington, Kentucky. Martha was among the first women to stun the world by attempting to operate an airplane – as a woman. Many people were getting their start as pilots as the flying industry grew throughout the 1920s; the majority were men but there were the exceptional women, like Martha, who would break that mold. Martha Croninger started her flying career at Lunken Airport, Cincinnati, Ohio in June of 1927 the summer she graduated high school.

After completing her training, Martha set out to set endurance records beginning in August of 1927 at only 18 years-old. Martha was encouraged by her newly wedded husband, O’Key Bevins. O’Key was an aviator and instructor at Lunken Airport. The two aviators married in May of 1928. Martha set out to break the solo endurance record for a woman in October of 1928 but was forced to land after 5 hours and 40 minutes of flying. She made several attempts but never set a record. However, she did become the first women to fly airmail from Cincinnati to Chicago.

Martha retired her position with Embry Riddles, flying mail, to fly for the Gates Flying Circus. The Gates Flying Circus was a well-known barnstorming group known for their stunts and air rides. During her time with the circus, Martha participated in flight stunts and helped check the airplanes prior to flying. Martha’s husband, O’key Bevins, passed away in 1935 after his plane crashed into a radio antenna tower. The death of her husband did not slow her down. Martha continued to fly and foster her love of aviation. Though Martha Corninger Bevins did not set distance or elevation records she still broke assumed molds for women and set a precedent for women to come after her. Aside from being a dedicated aviatrix, Martha was also known as an excellent markswoman with a rifle!

Sources:

1.  [Biography, 1928-1831, Box 3, Folder 9], MS-167, International Cyclopedia of Aviation Biography, Special Collections and Archives, University Libraries, Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio.
2. [Gates Flying Circus Catalogue]. Cage 112, Clyde Edward Pangborn Papers, Manuscripts and Special Collections, Washington State University Libraries, Pullman, WA.
3. [Photographs of Martha Bevins]. O’key Bevins Collection, Cincinnati Aviation Historical Society (CAHS).