Born: 19 May 1863 (Ham, Somme, France)
Died: 11 March 1928
Marie Surcouf (19 May 1863 – 11 March 1928) was a French balloonist and feminist. She made significant contributions to the field of aeronautics and played a crucial role in advancing women’s participation in aviation during the early 20th century.
Marie Valentine Nelly Bayard was born on 19 May 1863 in Ham, Somme, France. She was the daughter of Félicie and Ernest Julien Bayard. Marie married Alberic Roussel, a medical doctor, on 7 February 1882. The couple had two children, Pierre and André Roussel. André later became a dirigible pilot. Marie and Alberic lived in the 3rd arrondissement of Paris. However, they divorced on 31 July 1896.
On 20 September 1897, Marie married Édouard Surcouf, an engineer and balloonist. It was under her married name, Marie Surcouf, that she became famous for her aeronautical adventures. Édouard Surcouf was a member of the Aeronautique-Club de France (ACDF), an aerostatic association founded in October 1897. However, at the time, the club did not admit women as members.
Marie Surcouf’s husband’s affiliation with the ACDF sparked a discussion about women’s involvement in the club. Inspired by the number of women interested in aeronautics and participating in balloon ascents, the ACDF Management Committee eventually agreed to allow women related to club members to participate in balloon ascensions. On 14 November 1904, Marie Surcouf became one of the first women registered as an honorary member of the ACDF.
Marie Surcouf’s contributions to aviation expanded beyond her participation in balloon ascents. In 1906, she became the first French woman to earn an aeronautical balloon pilot’s license. Later that same year, she accomplished another significant feat by piloting a balloon flight with an all-woman crew. This was a remarkable achievement and made Marie Surcouf a trailblazer in the field of aviation.
Surcouf’s dedication to promoting women’s participation in aeronautics led her to found the women’s aeronautical club, La Stella. She also served as the president of the club, working diligently to provide women with opportunities to learn and engage in aviation activities.
Marie Surcouf’s achievements and passion for aeronautics undoubtedly influenced society and challenged gender norms at the time. By breaking barriers and excelling in a male-dominated field, she served as an inspiration to countless women aspiring to pursue their dreams in aviation.
Throughout her lifetime, Marie Surcouf faced numerous challenges and struggles. As a woman in the early 20th century, she had to overcome societal expectations and prejudices. Yet, her determination and ambition allowed her to achieve remarkable success and contribute significantly to the advancement of women in aviation.
Marie Surcouf passed away on 11 March 1928, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire women in aviation. Her pioneering spirit, accomplishments, and dedication to feminism have solidified her place in history and the annals of women’s achievements.
Awards:
– Honorary member of the Aeronautique-Club de France (ACDF)