Born: 1911 (Edenton, North Carolina)
Died: 1993
Biography:
Bessie Stringfield, born Betsy Beatrice White in 1911 or 1912, was a trailblazing figure in American motorcycling history. Known as the Motorcycle Queen of Miami, she became the first African-American woman to ride across the United States solo and broke down barriers for women and African-American motorcyclists. Her extraordinary achievements and contributions to the motorcycling community have left an indelible mark on history.
Stringfield’s early life is shrouded in some controversy. While she claimed to have been born in Kingston, Jamaica, in 1911 to a black Jamaican father and a white Dutch mother, records and family accounts suggest otherwise. According to official documents, she was born as Betsy Beatrice White in March 1911 in Edenton, North Carolina, to Maggie Cherry and James White. It is possible that Stringfield fabricated parts of her early life to distance herself from her humble beginnings.
Stringfield’s love affair with motorcycles began at the age of 16 when she taught herself to ride a 1928 Indian Scout. In an era dominated by male riders, she fearlessly braved the roads and embarked on her first cross-country journey at the age of 19. This trip was only the beginning of her numerous long-distance rides. Stringfield traveled through all 48 lower states, as well as Europe, Brazil, and Haiti, on her trusty two-wheeler. Her adventurous spirit and determination to conquer new horizons set her apart as an extraordinary motorcyclist.
Throughout her journeys, Stringfield encountered numerous challenges due to both her gender and race. As an African-American woman, she faced discrimination and prejudice, often being denied accommodation while traveling. To overcome this obstacle, she resorted to sleeping on her motorcycle at filling stations. In addition to dealing with racial hardships, she also encountered gender bias in her chosen field. In flat track races, she was frequently denied prizes solely because of her sex. Despite these adversities, Stringfield remained undeterred and continued to push the boundaries of what was possible for women and African-American motorcyclists.
Stringfield’s contributions to society extended beyond her personal achievements. During World War II, she served as one of the few civilian motorcycle dispatch riders for the US Army. Her courage and dedication in this role were instrumental in supporting the war effort. After the war, she continued to ride motorcycles and perform daring stunts in carnival shows to earn a living.
Stringfield’s influence on society cannot be overstated. She inspired countless individuals, particularly women and African-Americans, to pursue their dreams and overcome societal barriers. Her love for motorcycles and the open road embodied the spirit of freedom and independence. Her contributions served as a catalyst for change and motivated others to challenge social norms.
In recognition of her groundbreaking achievements, Stringfield was posthumously inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame. Additionally, the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) established the Bessie Stringfield Award for Superior Achievement by a Female Motorcyclist in her honor. These accolades solidify her place in motorcycling history and serve as a testament to her incredible legacy.
Despite the challenges and battles she faced, Bessie Stringfield’s determination, passion, and fearlessness continue to inspire us today. Her remarkable journey as a pioneering motorcyclist, her triumph over adversity, and her lasting impact on women’s history make her a true icon. Bessie Stringfield will forever be remembered as a trailblazer who broke down barriers and paved the way for future generations of women and African-American motorcyclists.
Awards:
– Inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame