At the end of the Victorian era, the women’s bicycle burst onto the American market and rocketed to a national sensation. Women astride their bicycles challenged cherished notions of femininity—everything from the concept of female dependence to their very appearance was about to change. Even Susan B. Anthony once said of the bicycle, “I think it has done more to emancipate women than anything else in the world. It gives women a feeling of freedom and self-reliance.” Join NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation historian Kjirsten Gustavson for an illustrated talk on the way in which the bicycle helped to shape the modern woman and pave the way for suffrage.
After the lecture, join Ms. Gustavson in her 1895 bicycling costume and vintage Raleigh bicycle for a ride through Washington Park. The group will meet at the Park Playhouse in Washington Park at 2:30 p.m. Participants are asked to bring their own bicycles, helmets and necessary riding gear. If you have any other questions, please call (518) 474-0575.
