Artifacts from the Archives
Every time the Archive staff opens a new collection, it is a new adventure.
We never know what treasures we are going to find.
SOLANGE D'HOOGHE's TRUNK
The Indestructo Truck Company by National Veneer Products was established in Mishawaka, Indiana and operated from 1901 to 1934. This company was renowned for producing sturdy and reasonably priced trunks. Their flagship product, the Indestructo Trunk, gained popularity due to its affordability and a five-year warranty that covered repairs or replacements. It was advertised as being able to withstand “the hardest wear.”
This specific trunk has a rich history, as it belonged to WASP member Solange D’Hooghe. Her son generously donated the trunk to the National WASP WWII Museum this year. According to him, Solange used this trunk during her training at Avenger Field. The trunk remains original, with the leather handle intact and wrapped in additional leather for protection. It features multiple compartments for shoes and outfits, as well as a space for hanging garments. Notably, the trunk weighs approximately 60 lbs.
rosa Charlyne Creger's hat
Charlyne Creger was born December 24, 1918, in Noble, Oklahoma. Her father was a blacksmith and Tennessee Bluegrass fighter, and her mother was born in Oklahoma, Indian territory. She was the fourth of six children and was proud to have been born when she was. Charlyne and her siblings had no toys but worked their minds and made toys.
When life gave Charlyne a challenge, she faced it head-on and, as she said, “reinvented herself.” She became a dancer, lingerie model, aircraft production expeditor, and pilot. After she received her pilot’s license in Norman, Oklahoma, she requested permission to leave Douglas Aircraft and join the WASP program. Her request was denied because the job was considered necessary for the war. Charlyne quit and decided to go fly for her country. After the WASP program was deactivated on December 20, 1944, she was a salvage pilot and flight instructor. Nobody wanted women pilots, so she reinvented herself and began working at the Crippled Children’s Hospital. She completed nursing training and joined the USAF as a nurse during the Korean War. At age 35, she applied for medical school and was denied because she would be taking a man’s place. She reinvented herself again, went to London, and studied under the Queen’s Anesthesiologist. She eventually became the Chief of the Anesthesia Department at Earl K Long Hospital in Baton Rouge, LA.
Charlyne Creger enjoyed traveling throughout Europe, Asia, and the United States. She collected hat pins, flags, and even a windsock during her travels. Her “Storyboard Hat” chronicles her zest for life and her travels from Russia to China, to Waco, Texas, to Avenger Field, and just about everywhere in between. She wore it proudly and loved adding new pins.
Most of all, Charlyne loved being a WASP. Charlyne’s hat is on display at the National WASP WWII Museum. Be sure to check it out on your next visit.
The Charlyne Creger's hat is now displayed in the National WASP WWII Museum.
Suzette Vandaell douglas' class notes
During their training, the WASP divided their time equally between flying and classroom instruction. While in the air, the pilots gained practical experience and honed their flying skills, while the classroom sessions covered a wide range of subjects, including Morse Code and basic mechanics. One of the WASP, Suzette VanDaell Douglas, diligently took class notes while at Avenger Field. These valuable historical records are now showcased at the National WASP WWII Museum for visitors to see and learn from.
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