The Van Buren sisters, Augusta and Adeline Van Buren, were American motorcycling pioneers known for their groundbreaking cross-country motorcycle journey in 1916. They played a significant role in challenging gender norms and advocating for women’s rights, particularly in the context of transportation and motorcycling.

Key points about the Van Buren sisters and their historic journey include:

1. Background: Augusta and Adeline Van Buren came from a family with a history of social activism. Their great-grandfather was Martin Van Buren, the eighth President of the United States.
2. Motorcycle Journey: In 1916, the Van Buren sisters embarked on a remarkable journey, riding across the United States on motorcycles. Their goal was to demonstrate the military utility of motorcycles and to promote the idea that women were capable of handling such vehicles.
3. Choice of Motorcycles: Augusta and Adeline chose Indian motorcycles for their journey, each equipped with a sidecar. These motorcycles were equipped with a custom-built windshield and a toolbox, and they carried a banner that read “Votes for Women.”
4. Cross-Country Route: The sisters traveled from Brooklyn, New York, to San Francisco, California. Their route took them through challenging terrain and weather conditions, including dirt roads, mud, and even snow.
5. Challenges and Triumphs: The Van Buren sisters faced numerous challenges during their journey, including mechanical issues, difficult road conditions, and encounters with law enforcement. Despite the hardships, they successfully completed their journey, covering over 5,500 miles in 60 days.
6. Advocacy for Women’s Rights: The Van Buren sisters used their journey as a platform to advocate for women’s rights, including the right to vote. They believed that by showcasing their abilities and resilience, they could contribute to changing societal perceptions of women’s capabilities.
7. Recognition: Augusta and Adeline Van Buren’s journey attracted attention from the media and the public. They were among the first women to make a transcontinental motorcycle journey, challenging stereotypes about women’s mobility and independence.
8. Legacy: The Van Buren sisters’ cross-country motorcycle journey is considered a landmark event in the history of women’s motorcycling and a symbol of early feminist activism. Their courage and determination paved the way for future generations of women in motorcycling.

The Van Buren sisters’ journey is an important chapter in the history of women’s rights and motorcycling. Their pioneering spirit and commitment to challenging societal norms left a lasting legacy, influencing the perception of women in the realms of transportation and adventure.