Aloha Wanderwell, born Idris Hall (October 13, 1906 – June 4, 1996), was a Canadian-born explorer, filmmaker, and author. She gained fame in the early 20th century for her travels around the world in a Ford Model T with the Wanderwell Expedition, a journey that spanned several continents and covered thousands of miles.
Key points about Aloha Wanderwell’s life and adventures include:
- Early Life: Aloha Wanderwell was born in Winnipeg, Canada. She developed a passion for adventure and travel at a young age.
- Wanderwell Expedition: In 1922, at the age of 16, Aloha joined the Wanderwell Expedition led by Captain Walter Wanderwell. The expedition aimed to circumnavigate the globe in a Ford Model T for the purpose of making travelogue films. Aloha became the expedition’s cinematographer, photographer, and secretary.
- Global Journey: Over the course of seven years, the Wanderwell Expedition traveled through North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia, covering over 380,000 miles. They faced numerous challenges, including difficult terrain, political unrest, and mechanical issues with their vehicles.
- Marriage to Captain Wanderwell: During the expedition, Aloha married Captain Walter Wanderwell. Their marriage attracted media attention, and the Wanderwell Expedition became a sensation, capturing the imagination of the public.
- Documentary Films: Aloha Wanderwell documented the journey through films, capturing the diverse cultures and landscapes they encountered. The expedition produced a series of travelogue films, including “With Car and Camera Around the World” and “Car and Camera in the Orient.”
- Post-Expedition Life: After the Wanderwell Expedition, Aloha continued her travels and filmmaking. She faced challenges and controversies, including legal battles and financial difficulties.
- Later Life: In her later years, Aloha lived in Southern California and worked as a private investigator. She published her autobiography, “Call to Adventure,” in 1939.
- Legacy: Aloha Wanderwell is remembered as a pioneering woman in the field of exploration and adventure. Her role as a filmmaker and explorer during a time when such pursuits were unconventional for women is celebrated, and her contributions to early travel filmmaking are recognized.
Aloha Wanderwell’s life story is one of adventure, resilience, and breaking gender norms in the field of exploration. Her journey with the Wanderwell Expedition remains a significant chapter in the history of early 20th-century exploration and filmmaking.
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