Compact disc. As America's Mercury Seven astronauts were launched on death-defying missions, television cameras focused on the brave smiles of their young wives. Overnight, these women were transformed from military spouses into American royalty. They had tea with Jackie Kennedy, appeared on the cover of Life magazine, and quickly grew into fashion icons. Annie Glenn, with her picture-perfect marriage, was the envy of the other wives; JFK made it clear that platinum-blond Rene Carpenter was his favorite; and licensed pilot Trudy cooper arrived with a secret that needed to stay hidden from NASA. Together with the other wives they formed the Astronaut Wives Club, providing one another with support and friendship, coffee and cocktails. Many bought houses next door to one another, helping to raise each other's children by day, while going to glam parties at night as the coutnry raced to land a man on the moon. As their celebrity rose - and as divorce and tragedy began to touch their lives - the wives continued to rally together, forming bonds that would withstand the test of time, and they have stayed friends for over half a century. The Astornaut Wives Club tells the real story of the women who stood beside some of the biggest heroes in American history.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.