TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI)- As WTHI celebrates its 70th year, the station is remembering one of its pioneers.
Betty Chadwick was the first female photographer in the United States. WTHI hired a then 33-year-old Chadwick in 1958. She would cover numerous stories from sports to pageants to a fire in downtown Terre Haute that destroyed a block of stores.
Betty Chadwick was the first female photographer in the United States. WTHI hired a then 33-year-old Chadwick in 1958. She would cover numerous stories from sports to pageants to a fire in downtown Terre Haute that destroyed a block of stores.
But, like most history-makers, Chadwick never intended to be the first woman in her field. When she worked with "The Brazil Times," a photographer failed to show up for an assignment. So, Chadwick stepped in.
Suzy Quick is the historian at the Vigo County History Center. She said Chadwick's career choice was significant for the time.
"Women didn't have a whole lot of options for job career in the same sense that they do today," Quick said. "A lot of ladies had to decide if they were going to into healthcare be a secretary or teacher. Betty was a pioneer for photojournalism for women."
Chadwick paved the way with a style all her own. Chadwick proudly wore tailored suits every day to work embroidered with her name and the station's call sign.
Those beyond the Wabash Valley took notice of her too. Chadwick would interview movie stars and presidents during her 23-year career. Her notoriety as the first female photographer would land her guest appearances on several national television shows, including "To Tell The Truth."
Chadwick left the field in 1979 and became an executive producer with the station. She died of cancer a few years later at the age of 55, leaving behind a legacy of journalism excellence that would pave the way for other women.
"Betty's achievements are a great inspiration to women and people in Terre Haute," Quick said. "Just all over that they can strive to do what they want to do and it can be done."
