Historical Profile Series: Gale Brownlee, Dauntless Aviatrix

Gale (Feeley) Brownlee was born and raised in Woodstock, New York, the granddaughter of renowned Woodstock physician Dr. Mortimer B. Downer. Throughout her career, she worked as a model, fashion designer, photographer, pilot, real estate broker, environmentalist, and activist. She was instrumental in creating the heliport at the former Benedictine Hospital and bringing the first Hospice program to Kingston. She advocated for environmental protection in and around Ulster County, flew fire watch in the Catskills and spear-headed fundraising for many important community programs. Displayed in celebration of National Aviation Day on August 19 and Women’s Equality Day on August 26.