Mary Bush Shipko of Gloucester, one of the first female airline pilots in the country, will be guest speaker at the Mathews Historical Museum for Movie Night on Friday, July 14. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Shipko’s remarks will precede a showing of Part II of a movie detailing Virginia’s role in aviation history: “Taking Flight—Stories of Modern Virginia Aviation, 1941 to Present Day, Part II” resuming where June’s movie night concluded.
“Taking Flight” is produced by Dave Miller of Miller Productions of Virginia, described in a release as a “prize-winning independent film maker who is now focusing his efforts on Virginia stories and films about the Chesapeake Bay and the Virginia coast.” His recent film on the life and accomplishments of the late Gwynn’s Island resident Gilbert Klingel received the Platinum Award at the International Film Festival, the release said.
Shipko is author of three books, including her memoir “Aviatrix,” an account of challenges she faced breaking the aviation industry’s gender barrier. She also wrote a children’s book, “Daring Mary Aviation Pioneer” and a new book for ages 12 and up, “The Firsts: Women Pilots and How They Changed the Airlines.” She is also a violinist in the Courthouse Community Orchestra.
The Mathews Historical Museum is located at 200 Main Street in Mathews. There is no cost for this event.