Born: Early 20th century
Biography:
Frances McElwain Wakeman, known as Frannie Wakeman, was an extraordinary sailor and a trailblazer for women in the sport. Born in the early 20th century, Wakeman’s achievements on the water and her dedication to promoting women’s sailing continue to inspire generations of young sailors today.
Wakeman’s passion for sailing was evident from a young age. She quickly excelled in the sport and gained recognition for her exceptional skills. From 1935 to 1938, Wakeman secured her place in sailing history by winning the Adams Cup, the prestigious North American Women’s Sailing Championship, an impressive four years in a row. Her dominance on the water was unmatched, and her victories served as an inspiration to many aspiring female sailors.
In addition to her success in sailing, Wakeman pursued other sports as well. She actively participated in field hockey and equestrian events, showcasing her athleticism and versatility. A 1981 article published by the Boston Globe described Wakeman’s sailing abilities as incomparable and exceeding that of many of the top male sailors. Her son, Samuel, who himself became a respected sailor, spoke of his mother’s intensity and desire to push boundaries. If given the chance, she would have likely pursued aviation, as she always sought to exceed her limits.
Wakeman’s competitive spirit extended beyond her individual pursuits. She encouraged her children, as well as other young sailors, to find their passions and excel in their chosen activities. Her son, Samuel, went on to crew for the successful America’s Cup defenders Intrepid in 1967 and Courageous in 1974. This legacy of pursuing excellence continues to be an inspiration to her children and the sailing community at large.
In addition to her personal achievements, Wakeman was dedicated to giving back to the sailing community. She endeavored to assist young sailors and promote sportsmanship and fair play among them. This commitment to supporting others was exemplified by her involvement as a judge at numerous regattas across the United States. Wakeman’s contributions as a trustee of the Adams Cup, a prestigious sailing event, further demonstrated her dedication to the sport she loved.
Outside of sailing, Wakeman was involved in various community endeavors. Alongside her husband, Sam, she raised funds to preserve a 251-piece waterfront property in Hingham, Massachusetts as an open space. This project exemplified her commitment to preserving natural environments and benefiting her community.
Wakeman’s contributions to sailing and the community have been widely recognized. Two major sailing championships, the New England Junior Women’s Singlehanded Championship and the MASS Bay Women’s Championship, bear her name, honoring her legacy and inspiring future generations of female sailors. In 2003, Wakeman was posthumously inducted into the New England Women’s Sports Hall of Fame, recognizing her pioneering role in advancing women’s sports.
Throughout her life, Frances Wakeman defied expectations and shattered barriers in the male-dominated field of sailing. Her extraordinary achievements and unwavering commitment to excellence continue to inspire women in sports and stand as a testament to the power of perseverance.
Awards:
– Adams Cup (North American Women’s Sailing Championship): 1935, 1936, 1937, 1938
– Massachusetts Bay Championship: 1935, 1936, 1937, 1938, 1939
– Wells Bowl in the International 210 Class: 1942
– Inducted into the New England Women’s Sports Hall of Fame: 2003