Book Reviewed: Wheels of Her Own: American Women and the Automobile, 1893-1929 by Carla R. Lesh

Women’s place is in the driver’s seat This book explores the life of American women and the enrichment of their lives during early days of automobile, 1893-1929. It discusses the benefits of owning a vehicle that included shifting gender norms, fostering independence, and opening new opportunities for women. But there were serious challenges too. Early automobiles were difficult to operate, requiring strength and mechanical knowledge, which led many to believe driving was unsuitable for women. In addition, roads were poorly maintained, and long-distance travel was perilous. Inequities to access, safety, lodging and fuel, reliable equipment, and the racism challenged African American women significantly. The promise of any new groundbreaking "life-altering" technology was challenged by the social conditions. Women like Alice Huyler Ramsey, a 22-year-old N.J. housewife became a pioneer. In 1909, She was the first woman to drive across the United States. Accompanied by three female friends (none of whom could drive), embarked on a 3,800-mile journey from New York to San Francisco in a Maxwell automobile. They faced mechanical breakdowns, muddy roads, and navigational challenges, many roads were unpaved and lacked signs. Rural areas were most difficult since they sought the help of strangers in case of emergency. Ramsey’s successful trip proved that women were capable of handling the technical and physical challenges of driving. Automobiles also became integral to the suffrage movement. Women used cars for parades, rallies, and cross-country tours to promote, demonstrating their ability to engage with modern technology and public life. The "Votes for Women" caravan of 1913 involved women driving cars emblazoned with banners advocating for suffrage. These highly visible tours drew attention and helped reach rural and urban communities. Inez Milholland became a driving force for suffrage, and Clara Ford the wife of Henry Ford was a strong advocate for women’s driving. The mass production of the Model T by Ford in 1908 made cars more affordable, broadening access to middle-class families and women. This study is limited in its choice of subject matter, since the motoring landscape included expansive demographic than the three groups discussed here, the white, the black and indigenous population. Hispanic and Asian populations are clearly excluded and much of the discussions are about the white and black women. Another shortcoming of this book is the way the topics are discussed. There are several pictures, illustrations and diagrams of women driving, which helped me to connect with female drivers of the early 1900s.