Track shoes worn by Helen Stephens

Helen Stephens wore these cleats at the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin, where she was the champion in the 100-meter and 4×100-meter relay races, setting a record in the former that held for 24 years. Known as “the Fulton Flash,” Stephens grew up in Fulton, Missouri, and later moved to Florissant. Although she never publicly identified as a lesbian, Stephens lived with her partner, Mabel Robbe, for nearly 40 years. Stephens was inducted into numerous halls of fame, including the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame, National Track and Field Hall of Fame, and National Women’s Hall of Fame.

Object Title and Accession Number

Track shoes worn by Helen Stephens. Made by Lowe and Campbell Athletic Goods, 1935–1936. 1992-067-0004.