Evelyn McHale (2017)
Evelyn McHale, 23, committed suicide by jumping from the Empire State Building on May 1, 1947. Her death, captured in an iconic photograph, highlighted her struggles with mental health and societal pressures.
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Evelyn McHale, a 23-year-old woman, committed suicide on May 1, 1947, by jumping from the Empire State Building. Her fall ended on the roof of a United Nations limousine, and the iconic photograph taken by Robert Wiles shortly after her death captured her serene appearance amidst the chaos of the scene. Born on September 20, 1923, in Berkeley, California, Evelyn faced a tumultuous upbringing, including her parents' divorce and her mother's mental health struggles. After serving in the Women’s Army Corps during World War II, she returned to civilian life, working as a bookkeeper and becoming engaged to Barry Rhodes. Despite appearing normal before her death, Evelyn struggled with feelings of inadequacy and depression, which she expressed in her suicide note, requesting cremation and no memorial service. Her tragic leap marked her as the twelfth person to jump from the Empire State Building, prompting the installation of safety measures that ultimately did not prevent further suicides. The photograph of her death became a cultural icon, influencing various art forms, while Wiles never published another photo after that day. Evelyn's story remains a poignant reminder of the struggles with mental health and the impact of societal pressures.
- Evelyn McHale committed suicide by jumping from the Empire State Building on May 1, 1947.
- Robert Wiles captured an iconic photograph of her immediately after her death.
- Evelyn faced significant personal challenges, including family instability and depression.
- Her suicide note expressed feelings of inadequacy and a desire for cremation without a memorial.
- The photograph of her death became a cultural icon, influencing various art and media.
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