Born: 1894 (Kansas, USA)
Died: 1979
Biography:
Lillian La France (1894–1979) was a trailblazing woman who made her mark as the world’s foremost female motorcycle stunt rider during the 1920s and 1930s. Born Agnes Micek in Kansas, USA, she would go on to achieve great success and become an inspiration to women in a male-dominated field.
La France’s journey into the world of daredevilry began in 1924 when, at the age of 30, she joined the famous Wall of Death carnival sideshow and motordrome. This thrilling spectacle involved riding motorcycles at high speeds along a vertical wooden wall, defying gravity and captivating audiences with their death-defying feats. Despite being one of the few women daring enough to participate in this exhilarating act, La France quickly rose to prominence and soon became a crowd favorite.
Known as The Girl Who Flirts With Death, La France’s audacious performances captivated audiences across the country. She possessed exceptional skill and fearlessness, defying expectations and shattering gender stereotypes. Her talent and determination made her a respected figure in the world of motorcycle stunts, paving the way for other women to pursue their dreams in this exhilarating realm.
La France’s distinctive trademark was her Skull and Crossbones logo, which epitomized her fearless persona. With this emblem emblazoned on her motorcycle, she fearlessly rode the Wall of Death, thrilling spectators with her daring maneuvers and captivating showmanship. Her riding abilities extended beyond motorcycles; she was also skilled at driving four-wheel vehicles and even became the first person to ride a wall in a scaled-down midget racing car, showcasing her versatility and innovation.
During the 1920s and ’30s, La France was not only one of the first but also one of the most popular female Wall of Death riders. Wall of Death shows, often referred to as silo-motordromes at the time, were a highlight of the entertainment industry’s golden age. La France’s presence and accomplishments in this demanding profession made her a pioneer in women’s motorcycling history.
However, life was not without its challenges for La France. As a female stunt rider in a predominantly male industry, she faced constant obstacles and gender discrimination. But her unwavering determination and undeniable talent allowed her to triumph over adversity, blazing a trail for future generations of women in the field of extreme sports.
Later in her career, La France transitioned to operating a long-range shooting gallery, continuing to entertain and amaze audiences in a different capacity. Her dedication to thrilling and delighting the public persisted even after her motorcycle stunt riding days were over.
Lillian La France’s impact extends beyond her individual achievements. She symbolizes the resilience and determination of women who dared to pursue their passions in the face of societal limitations. Her achievements in the world of motorcycle stunt riding broke barriers and inspired countless women to embrace their own dreams, proving that gender should never be a barrier to pursuing one’s passions.