Elizabeth Pennell Awheel

Book excerpt: Elizabeth Robins Pennell was a widely published American travel writer renowned for her literary prowess and cycling expeditions across Europe. Teaming up with her husband, artist Joseph Pennell (whose illustrations accompany her text in this volume), the duo explored Britain and Europe on tandem tricycles and bicycles, chronicling their journeys in captivating prose and detailed illustrations. Their cycling odyssey began in 1884 when they accepted a commission from The Century Magazine, leading to their first book, A Canterbury Pilgrimage (1885), followed by Two Pilgrims’ Progress (1887), and Our Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy (1893). Elizabeth's insightful essays in this volume, including Cycling (1890) and At Last, The Ladies’ Perfect Cycling Costume (1892), offer valuable guidance on riding and attire for women cyclists in the Victorian Era. Elizabeth Pennell’s literary contributions extended beyond cycling, encompassing biographies, art criticism, and culinary writings. The Pennell homestead in London served as a hub for literary and artistic luminaries of the time. Through Elizabeth’s writings, readers can embark on a journey through Europe's landscapes while gaining profound insights into the evolving role of women in cycling. Her works stand as literary treasures and historical documents, illuminating an era when cycling symbolized independence and adventure, transcending mere transportation to become a hallmark of exploration and personal freedom. Sports She Wrote is a 31-volume time-capsule of primary documents written by more than 500 women in the 19th century, including nine volumes on cycling.