Women's History Month is celebrated every March, and highlights the accomplishments made by women.
On one of my many visits to the library, there was a book which caught my eye immediately - “Alice Across America: The story of the first women's cross-country road trip” by Sarah Glenn Marsh. Alice, a 22 year old mother, took on the task of driving cross-country, 3,800 miles from New York to San Francisco in 59 days. With three other women as her brave co-pilots, she drove a dark green, four cylinder, 30 horse power 1909 Maxwell DA, a touring car. Can we even begin to imagine the problems that arose, but sheer determination to overcome adversity made it a success. She became the first woman inducted in the Automotive Hall of Fame in Dearborn, Mich. Ramsey maintained her driver’s license until age 95. On another of her famous rides, she was accompanied by her grandson, Peter Ramsey.
All ages would enjoy this book, targeted to young readers with its delightful, bold pictures. An added note- these were times when women couldn’t vote and were expected to keep traditional roles. After Alice's historic trip, she continued to do what she loved best: cruise the open road.
In her 1961 memoir, Veil, Duster and Tire Iron, which tells the story of this journey, she said, "This criticism, of course, merely whetted the appetites of those of us who were convinced that we could drive as well as most men... It’s been done by men and as long as they have been able to accomplish it, why shouldn't I?"
As cars became more available for families, so was the need for paved roads. Route 66 would become a reality in the future, along with the Interstate Highway system. Alice was a helping hand in this movement which was to make travel in America possible!
In celebration of Women's History Month, I have included words from four celebrated women;
"The future belongs to those
who believe in the beauty of
their dreams."
`~Eleanor Roosevelt~
" This is a beautiful day.
I have not seen this one before."
~Maya Angelou~
~When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, I used everything you gave me."
~Erma Bombeck~
"I always felt there was a calling on my life, and I responded to the call."
~Oprah Winfrey~
