Aviator Bessica Medlar Raiche Centennial Celebration September 16, 2010

On September 16, 1910, Rockford native Bessica Faith Medlar Raiche made the first accredited solo flight by a woman in the United States. To celebrate this event Midway Village will feature an original one-woman play written by Jessica MacDonald titled 'Flying Solo: The Remarkable Bessica Raiche First Woman Aviator of America.' Prior to play, there will be a special performance of popular music of the 1900-1920 era arranged and performed by Julie Marek. Additional activities relating to the early history of woman aviators are also being planned.