Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Sport > Sailing
Joe Carstairs on her yacht Sonia, 1925
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Joe Carstairs on her yacht Sonia, 1925
Marion Barbara Joe Carstairs (1900 - 1993) on her yacht, Sonia. Openly lesbian, Joe Carstair was a wealthy British power boat racer known for her speed and her eccentric lifestyle. Date: 1925
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23273948
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Barbara Carstairs Lesbian Marion Sonia Sportswoman Yacht Yachting 1925
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Sport
> Sailing
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images August 2021
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this photograph, Marion Barbara Joe Carstairs, a wealthy British power boat racer, exudes an aura of confidence and defiance as she stands at the helm of her yacht, Sonia, in 1925. With her short bobbed hair, stylish hat, and determined gaze, Carstairs, who was openly lesbian, challenges the conventional norms of the time. Born in 1900, Carstairs was known for her daring exploits on the water and her eccentric lifestyle. She was a pioneering figure in the world of yachting and power boat racing, setting numerous speed records and winning several races. Her love for the sea began at a young age, and she spent much of her life sailing and racing, often competing against men in a male-dominated sport. Carstairs's unconventional personal life added to her legend. She was open about her sexuality at a time when being lesbian was taboo, and she surrounded herself with a circle of women friends. She was also known for her extravagant parties and her flamboyant fashion sense, often wearing elaborate costumes and jewelry. Despite her unconventional lifestyle, Carstairs was a respected figure in the yachting community. She was a member of the Royal Yacht Squadron and the Royal Thames Yacht Club, and she was often featured in the press for her racing accomplishments. This photograph captures a moment in time when Carstairs, with her fierce determination and unapologetic individuality, embodied the spirit of the Roaring Twenties and challenged societal norms. The yacht Sonia, which Carstairs named after her beloved dog, was a testament to her love of speed and the sea. The sleek, modern vessel was designed to be fast and agile, and it reflected Carstairs's daring and adventurous spirit. In this photograph, she stands proudly at the helm, ready to take on the challenges of the open water and defy the expectations of a world that was just beginning to embrace change.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
