Van Buren Sisters
Sisters, Augusta and Adeline Van Buren, were pioneers and groundbreaking cross-country motorcycle adventurists who shattered societal norms.
The Van Buren Sisters: Women Pioneers in Motorcycling History
In the world of motorcycling, few stories are as inspiring and groundbreaking as that of the Van Buren sisters. Augusta and Adeline Van Buren weren’t just sisters; they were pioneers who shattered societal norms and paved the way for women in motorcycling and beyond. Their 1916 cross-country motorcycle adventure remains a landmark moment in the history of women’s empowerment and motorcycling.
Who Were the Van Buren Sisters?
Born into a progressive family in New York City, Augusta (“Gussie”) and Adeline (“Addie”) Van Buren were advocates for women’s rights at a time when gender roles were rigidly defined. Both women were descendants of Martin Van Buren, the eighth president of the United States. Their passion for adventure, coupled with a determination to prove women’s capabilities, led them to undertake a daring motorcycle journey across the United States.
Their Historic Ride Across America
In 1916, the Van Buren sisters set out on 1000cc Indian Powerplus motorcycles to ride from New York City to San Francisco. Their mission was to:
- Prove that women could handle the physical and mental challenges of riding motorcycles long distances.
- Support the effort to allow women to serve as dispatch riders during World War I (freeing up men to do other jobs).
Their route covered over 5,500 miles of rugged terrain, much of which was unpaved and poorly mapped. From steep mountain passes to harsh desert conditions, the sisters faced challenges that tested their endurance and resolve. They became the first women to ride a motorcycle to the top of Pikes Peak, Colorado.
Breaking Barriers and Making Headlines
The Van Buren sisters’ journey wasn’t just about the physical challenge; it was a bold statement against societal expectations. At the time, women were often discouraged from engaging in activities considered too dangerous or strenuous. The sisters defied these norms, showing the world that women were capable of performing much more than traditional roles.
Despite their incredible feat, the Van Buren sisters faced criticism and skepticism. Instead of receiving widespread praise, they were arrested multiple times—not for breaking laws, but for wearing men’s riding attire, which was considered inappropriate for women at the time.
Legacy of the Van Buren Sisters
Although they didn’t achieve immediate recognition or their goal of becoming dispatch riders, the Van Buren sisters’ journey had a lasting impact:
- Empowering Women Riders: Their adventure inspired generations of women to pursue motorcycling as a hobby, sport, and profession.
- Advancing Women’s Rights: By challenging societal norms, they contributed to the broader movement for gender equality.
- Preserving History: In 2002, Augusta and Adeline were posthumously inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, ensuring their legacy would not be forgotten.
Why the Van Buren Sisters Matter Today
The story of the Van Buren sisters resonates with modern audiences for its themes of courage, determination, and equality. For motorcycle enthusiasts, the sisters’ journey highlights the rich history of motorcycling and its power to break boundaries.