Stewardess Tot: A Symbol of the Post-War Boom

The Origins of Stewardess Tot

Stewardess Tot, the mascot for Braniff International Airways, is one of the most enduring images of the aviation industry. Tot was a living, breathing dog (or, more accurately, a female toy fox terrier) who flew on Braniff planes and served as a goodwill ambassador for the airline. She was born in 1952 and joined Braniff in 1953. She quickly became a favorite of passengers and employees alike, and her image was used in all of Braniff's advertising and marketing materials. She was so popular that she even had her own comic book series. Tot traveled all over the world with Braniff, and she even met several presidents, including John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson.

The Symbolism of Stewardess Tot

Stewardess Tot was more than just a mascot. She was also a symbol of the post-war boom. In the years following World War II, air travel became more accessible to the general public, and Braniff was one of the airlines that helped to make this happen. Tot represented the glamour and excitement of air travel, and she helped to make Braniff one of the most popular airlines in the world. She was a symbol of the optimism and prosperity of the post-war era.

Tot's popularity also reflected the changing role of women in society. In the years following World War II, more and more women were entering the workforce, and Tot was one of the first female mascots for a major corporation. She was a symbol of the growing independence and empowerment of women, and she helped to inspire a new generation of female travelers.

The Legacy of Stewardess Tot

Stewardess Tot retired from Braniff in 1968, but her legacy continues to live on. She is still one of the most recognizable symbols of Braniff International Airways, and she is still fondly remembered by passengers and employees alike. In 2004, she was inducted into the International Air & Space Hall of Fame. She is also the subject of a new book, "Stewardess Tot: The Dog Who Flew the World."

Stewardess Tot was more than just a mascot. She was a symbol of the post-war boom and the changing role of women in society. Her legacy continues to live on today, and she remains one of the most beloved figures in the history of aviation.