From WOOD COUNTY MUSEUM
The Wood County Museum will welcome Wendy Zielen, a volunteer from the Michigan Flight Museum, to be the speaker for the upcoming “Tea & Talk” series on Thursday, March 12, at 2 p.m., at the Wood County Museum, 13660 County Home Road, Bowling Green.
The March tea is titled “Wings of Change: The Women Airforce Service Pilots.” When the U.S. Air Force announced in the 1970s that it would accept women for pilot training for the “first time,” history enthusiasts and advocates quickly rallied to recognize the pioneering Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs) of World War II. These courageous women were the first to ferry military aircraft, flying everything from trainers to bombers, all while proving that women could master “the Army way” of flying just as skillfully as their male counterparts.
This presentation will take people on an inspiring journey through the history of the WASPs – their rigorous training, vital contributions to the war effort, and the obstacles they faced in a military system that wasn’t ready to accept them. Attendees will hear stories of their resilience, determination, and the lasting impact they had on future generations of female aviators. Complete with historical photos, firsthand accounts, and a rare look at the flight gear they wore – including an authentic WWII flight mechanic’s “zoot suit” – this presentation brings to life the women who insisted that a woman’s place is in the cockpit.
Once again, the museum is partnering with The Summer Kitchen. The featured tea selection is called Sweet Summertime: a tea reminiscent of grandma’s sweet, cooked rhubarb pie, complete with a touch of vanilla and refreshing notes of lemon.
Reservations and payment need to be completed by Sunday, March 8. There are two methods for payment. Either call 419-352-0967 and museum staff can assist or visit woodcountyhistory.org to pay online. Admission includes tea and light refreshments by local caterer So Many Somethings out of Perrysburg, and program. Member pricing is $30, while non-member and special diet meals, including gluten free and vegan, are $35. All ticket sales are final. Tickets are non-refundable.
This program is part of the 2026 Tea & Talk series hosted by the Wood County Museum. A complete list of teas and other programs can be found at woodcountyhistory.org.
