Alice Huyler Ramsey, was indeed the first woman to drive an automobile across the United States from coast to coast. In 1909, at the age of 22, Alice Huyler Ramsey, along with three female companions, embarked on an arduous journey across the country.

At the time, automobiles were still a relatively new invention, and long-distance travel by car was uncommon, especially for women. The purpose of Alice Ramsey’s journey was to prove the reliability of automobiles and to promote women’s ability to drive.

On June 9, 1909, Alice Huyler Ramsey and her companions departed from New York City in a green Maxwell 30. Over the course of 59 days, they faced numerous challenges, including rough and often non-existent roads, lack of road signs, mechanical issues, and inclement weather.

Their route took them through cities such as Chicago, Illinois; Denver, Colorado; Salt Lake City, Utah; and San Francisco, California. Along the way, they attracted significant media attention and encountered both supportive and skeptical reactions from the public.

Finally, on August 7, 1909, Alice Ramsey and her companions successfully completed their journey when they arrived in San Francisco, becoming pioneers for women’s involvement in long-distance automobile travel. Their achievement helped challenge prevailing stereotypes and pave the way for greater opportunities for women in the automotive industry.

Alice Huyler Ramsey’s cross-country journey remains a significant milestone in automotive history, particularly for women’s participation in driving and travel.

After the cross-country trip, Alice Ramsey became a prominent advocate for women’s suffrage and women’s rights. She believed that the ability to drive would provide women with newfound freedom and independence. Her achievement helped challenge the prevailing perception that women were incapable of handling automobiles and contributed to breaking down societal barriers.

Throughout her life, Alice Huyler Ramsey remained involved in various women’s organizations and continued to advocate for women’s rights and equality. She passed away on September 10, 1983, at the age of 96.

Alice Huyler Ramsey’s cross-country journey and her ongoing activism have left an enduring legacy. Her determination and courage in undertaking the challenging journey have inspired generations of women and contributed to the advancement of women’s rights and opportunities.