History Daily Alice Ramsey Completes Her Drive Across America
Aug 7, 2025
In 1909, Alice Ramsey became the first woman to drive across America, defying societal norms and showcasing remarkable resilience. Her journey was fraught with challenges, from treacherous mountain terrain to harsh weather conditions. Alongside her crew, she not only tackled the physical demands of the road but also navigated the male-dominated automotive culture of the early 20th century. Alice's trailblazing feat paved the way for future generations of women in a rapidly evolving society.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Alice's Early Driving Journey
- Alice Ramsey learned to drive in just two lessons and quickly amassed thousands of miles on her new Maxwell car.
- She entered a 200-mile race as the sole female competitor and later accepted Maxwell Company's challenge to drive across America.
Maxwell's Marketing Strategy
- The Maxwell Company strategically promoted cars as suitable for both men and women to expand their market.
- Using Alice as a young, skilled female driver was a marketing tactic that garnered national attention.
Challenges on the Cross-Country Drive
- Alice began her cross-country drive in June 1909, facing primitive roads and severe weather.
- She ingeniously used wooden blocks to prevent her car from sliding backward on steep mountain paths.