1953 “Little Miss Muffett” Departs Moffett Field – Original Photo from All-Women’s Transcontinental Air Race

This original 1953 aviation photograph captures the historic departure of the aircraft “Little Miss Muffett” from Moffett Field Naval Air Station, California, on June 23, 1953, in preparation for the All-Women’s Transcontinental Air Race—a landmark event in mid-century aviation and a bold display of female pilot achievement.

Supported by civilian and military personnel at Moffett Field, “Little Miss Muffett” was sponsored through small donations—25 cents at a time—from air station workers and civil service employees, underscoring the spirit of community and enthusiasm for women in flight. This public-supported aircraft symbolized grassroots encouragement for gender inclusion in competitive aviation.

The race, often referred to as the Powder Puff Derby, began on July 3, 1953, and ended on July 7, covering the continental United States in a challenging, high-endurance contest of skill and determination.

Aircraft & Event Highlights:

• Aircraft Name: Little Miss Muffett

• Event: All-Women’s Transcontinental Air Race (likely part of the Powder Puff Derby)

• Departure Site: Moffett Field Naval Air Station, CA

• Date of Departure: June 23, 1953

• Cruising Speed: 110 mph

• Planned Altitude: 500 ft hedge-hopping (if CAA approved), max 11,000 ft

• Sponsorship: Funded by 25¢ donations from Moffett Field staff

Historical Significance:

• The 1953 women’s air race marked a pivotal moment in aviation history, as women sought broader visibility and legitimacy in the highly competitive, male-dominated field.

• Moffett Field was a cornerstone of U.S. military and aerospace research; its endorsement of a civilian female race effort is a testament to the growing recognition of women’s roles in aviation.

• The Powder Puff Derby, founded by aviation legends like Amelia Earhart and later sponsored by the Ninety-Nines (International Organization of Women Pilots), provided a platform for women pilots to gain public visibility and demonstrate their skills.

• This photograph offers a rare visual artifact of the preparation, participation, and grassroots enthusiasm behind these important aviation milestones.

Key Features:

• Date: June 23, 1953

• Location: Moffett Field NAS, California

• Subject: “Little Miss Muffett” aircraft and departure for women's transcontinental air race

• Event: 1953 All-Women’s Transcontinental Air Race (Powder Puff Derby)

• Community Sponsorship: Civil service and military personnel donations

• Medium: Original black-and-white press or personal photograph

• Condition: Well-preserved; strong image clarity and documentation