Women Take the Wheel

Today, over 100 years after the automobile first liberated drivers from horse-drawn buggies, women drive to work, shuttle the kids, and even hold powerful positions in automotive related industries. No one bats an eye. However, at the turn of the century, only a few women worked outside the home and even fewer owned and drove cars. Victorian women were viewed as too fragile to deal with public affairs, participate in strenuous activity, or operate complex machinery - such as automobiles. However, the automobile first a symbol of male power and control - became the perfect vehicle for feminine revolt. For these women, the automobile provided opportunities for work, inventions, adventure and independence. In recognition of Women's History Month , the AACA Museum will focus on women who made automotive history - and possibly steered the course of who we are today.