102: Six Day Race Part 9: Women’s Six-day Frenzy (1876)

In early 1876, Chicago, Illinois was the six-day race capital of the world. A six-day race frenzy broke out in many other cities after the incredible Mary Marshall vs. Bertha Von Hillern race was held in February 1876. (see episode 101).  They showed America that not only could men pile up miles in six days, but women could too, even mothers.  Both men and women sought to race for fame and fortune, even some who weren’t properly trained. There were so many people who wanted a piece of this action that the Chicago Tribune wrote that it would no longer publish challenges unless there was proof that money had been forfeited (secured) for a six-day wager.  This new policy was put in place “in view of the extraordinary lunacy which has lately been prevalent among the boys and women of Chicago on the question of walking matches and challenges.”

The 1876 six-day craze took place especially among women. This episode will continue to tell the story of the earliest women six-day races. At least twelve six-day races involving women were held in 1876. Pedestrian historians have missed most of this history. The forgotten story has been discovered and can now be told.