Like Dot Robinson, Bessie Stringfield was also instrumental in breaking down the gender barriers, as well as racial stereotypes, of society. Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, this female, African-American motorcycle legend took eight different solo rides across the United States, including Southern states. The trips were not always easy due to the racial prejudice sometimes prevalent during those times. However, rather than quitting, this motorcycle hero kept her determination and persevered, eventually becoming one of the most famous female motorcyclists in the U.S.Stringfield also worked as a civilian motorcycle dispatch rider for the U.S. Army during World War II. After serving in the Army, she moved to Miami and founded the Iron Horse Motorcycle Club. She also was known for her antics, which earned her the nickname "Motorcycle Queen of Miami," such as winning a bike race disguised as a man and standing in the saddle of her bike while riding through Miami. This famous motorcyclist owned 27 Harley-Davidson motorcycles throughout her lifetime.
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