Robert E. Peary
Robert E. Peary claimed in 1909 he was the first person to reach the North Pole. He, his assistant Matthew Henson, and four companions traveled to within several miles of the North Pole. Peary rested for a few hours and then, with two companions, finished the journey (according to his calculations). Many experts feel he did not actually reach the North Pole. Children could learn more at: Peary.
Louis Bleriot before take-off
Louis Bleriot became the first person to fly a plane across the English Channel. He left Les Baraques, France, in 1909 and landed in Dover, England. The trip took 36 minutes 30 seconds. The Daily Mail, a British newspaper, had offered a reward of £1000 to the first successful aviator. Bleriot received the reward, and he instantly became famous. Children could read the 1984 Caldecott Medal book The Glorious Flight: Across the Channel with Louis Bleriot, July 25, 1909 by Alice Provensen and Martin Provensen.
Alice Huyler Ramsey
Alice Huyler Ramsey and three fellow female travelers in 1909 became the first women to drive across the country by automobile. They had left Manhattan on June 9, 1909, and finished in San Francisco, California. Only Ramsey could drive! She had to replace flat tires, fix brake pedals, and make other repairs. Only 152 miles of the 3,600 mile trip were paved. Ramsey wrote Veil, Duster, and Tire Iron to commemorate her trip. Older children could learn more at: Alice Huyler Ramsey.
Indianapolis 500 Early Days
Indianapolis 500 Race Track opened in 1909. It went through significant changes to be the race track it is today.
All-American Soap Box Derby was held for the first time in Dayton, Ohio, in 1934. The race was moved to Akron, Ohio, in 1935 because the city had more hills. Today the race is still held in Akron, and all cars must be unpowered. However, the science behind the scenes is amazing! Children can learn more at: Soap Box Derby