1940 Josephine Clark Labbe – California Soaring Meet Press Photo, San Fernando Valley

An original ACME press photograph dated January 29, 1940, showing Josephine Clark Labbe smiling and waving from the cockpit of her motorless glider during a soaring meet in San Fernando Valley, Southern California. The event was sponsored by the Soaring Association of Southern California and attended by Hollywood director Clarence Brown, who hosted the meet at his ranch.

Labbe’s poised stance, half-emerging from the cockpit with the canopy open, exemplifies the glamour and optimism associated with pre-WWII aviation in California. The clear skies and streamlined design of the sailplane reflect the era’s fascination with silent, graceful flight.

This photograph blends sport, Hollywood culture, and women’s aviation history, making it appealing to both aviation memorabilia collectors and vintage Hollywood ephemera enthusiasts.