As we celebrate Day 17 of Black History Month, we honor the trailblazing legacy of Bessie Stringfield, the fearless motorcyclist who broke racial and gender barriers on two wheels.
Known as the “Motorcycle Queen of Miami,” Stringfield made history as the first African American woman to ride solo across the United States, traveling through the Jim Crow South and beyond at a time when both her race and gender made such a journey incredibly dangerous.
Born in 1911 in North Carolina, Bessie discovered her love for motorcycles at a young age. By the time she was a teenager, she had already mastered riding.
In the 1930s, she embarked on a solo journey across all 48 lower states, becoming the first Black woman to do so. To support herself, she performed daring stunts at carnivals and raced on flat tracks—often disguised as a man.
However, when race organizers discovered her true identity, she was frequently denied prize money, despite her undeniable skill.
Stringfield faced frequent discrimination during her travels, being turned away from hotels and facing hostility on the road. Yet, she remained undeterred, sleeping on her motorcycle when necessary and forging ahead despite the obstacles.
Serving Her Country on Two Wheels
During World War II, though a civilian, Stringfield served as a U.S. Army dispatch rider, delivering classified documents across military bases.
Her role required her to navigate long distances in harsh conditions, proving her endurance and courage in a time when women—let alone Black women—were rarely seen in such positions.
After the war, she settled in Miami, Florida, where she became a local legend, earning the title “Motorcycle Queen of Miami.” She founded the first Black motorcycle club in the city and continued to ride well into her later years.
A Fearless Spirit to the End
Stringfield’s personal life was as bold as her riding career. She was married six times, often to men 20 years younger than her. Even at 70 years old, she famously declared:
“Wouldn’t have a man over 35, even now.”
Bessie Stringfield passed away in 1993, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, adventure, and fearlessness.
oday, she is recognized as a pioneer for Black motorcyclists and women riders, her impact still felt in motorcycle culture and beyond.
Honoring Her Legacy
As we celebrate Black History Month, Bessie Stringfield’s story serves as a powerful reminder that courage and determination can break through any barrier.
Her love for motorcycles wasn’t just a personal passion—it was a defiant act of independence, proving that Black women belong anywhere they choose to be, including on the open road.
