Could you imagine a woman in skirts maintaining her hairdo while building planes? That was Hilda Hewlett. This plaque commemorates Hilda Hewlett. She was a true pioneer. Let’s delve into her inspiring story right here at the Hilda Hewlett Plaque.
Hilda Beatrice Hewlett was born in 1864. She defied expectations and soared to incredible heights. She was the first British woman to earn a pilot’s license. Not only that but she also became a successful aircraft manufacturer.
In 1911, Hilda Hewlett received certificate No.122 from the Royal Aero Club. She qualified as a pilot. This was a monumental achievement for a woman in that era. Her son Francis also learned to fly. She taught him herself. He earned his license soon after his mother. This made her the first mother to teach a son to fly who became a military pilot.
Hilda’s passion for aviation was ignited at an event in Blackpool in 1909. There she met Frenchman Gustave Blondeau. Together they shared a fascination with flying. She went to France. She bought a plane. Only then could she learn to fly.
Hewlett and Blondeau established one of Britain’s first flying schools at Brooklands. This was in Surrey. The school produced many pilots. One notable pupil was Thomas Sopwith. His company built the famous Sopwith Camel fighter plane during World War I.
Hilda and Gustave also started an aircraft manufacturing business. It was called Hewlett & Blondeau Limited. Initially, they built planes at Brooklands. They later moved to Battersea. Here at 4 Vardens Road, the factory was based from 1912 to 1914. The factory was housed in a disused ice-skating rink. Imagine that. An ice rink turned into an aircraft factory.
During World War I, Hewlett’s company manufactured over 800 military aircraft. They also made specialized engines. The British government considered them vital for the war effort. Her company employed up to 700 people. Hilda even set up a training school for women. They learned skills like welding which had been traditionally done by men. She was an indefatigable worker. She was also a good organizer and a shrewd businesswoman.
After the war, the company diversified into farming equipment. The factory closed in 1920. Hewlett then emigrated to New Zealand. She sought to escape from crowds and convention. She lived out her final years there. Family members called her “Old Bird”.
Hilda Hewlett died in 1943. She was buried at sea as she had wished. Her legacy lives on. A road in Luton is named after her. This recognizes the importance of her company during the war. The RAF also has a center for innovation named in her honor.
So next time you are passing by, remember Hilda Hewlett. She was the irrepressible Mrs. Hewlett. Her spirit and determination helped shape the world of aviation. She truly was an extraordinary woman of her time.