Bicycling for Change

HISTORY

Bicyclists have been elbowing for room on the roads of cities since its inception from horses-and-buggies and pedestrians to the eventual domination of automobiles zipping by. A mass-produced bicycle prototype was first made available to the American public during the 1860’s. It would become not only an additional mode of transportation, but would also play an important role in a later social movement. “To men, the bicycle in the beginning was merely a new toy, another machine added to the long list of devices they knew in their work and play. To women, it was a steed upon which they rode into a new world” (Mumsey’s Magazine, 1896).

As designs improved to accommodate a more comfortable ride, bicycles quickly rose in popularity during the 1880’s and 1890’s. Interest groups began to form, mainly at the direction and guidance of bicycle manufacturer Albert Pope, to establish legal and political precedence for the bicycle as a “legitimate endeavor” in response to naysayers (Macy). Perhaps the most influential during the infancy stages, the League of American Wheelman (LAW) was established in 1880 to aid in this effort. They specifically sought to overturn bans on the use of bicycles (as they were perceived to be dangerous, especially to horses), as well as promoted bike usage by establishing races, highlighting “bike-friendly” hotels and restaurants on maps for touring cyclists, and launched a movement pushing for bicycle paths and better road conditions. This initial swell of popularity reached a peak in the late 1890’s, with notables such as the Wright Brothers and John D. Rockefeller members of the LAW organization.

SOCIAL CATALYST

Susan B. Anthony once stated that the bicycle “has done more to emancipate women than anything else in the world” for some time. Fellow partner in the women’s rights movement, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, also noted that the bicycle taught “an equality in social relations without distinction as to color or previous conditions of servitude”. Author of “Wheels of Change” Sue Macy builds upon this notion by adding that the bicycle during this era “affected popular culture in so many ways, including the way people—and especially women—dressed, the music they listened to, the magazines and stories they read, and the slang they used. It made exercise accessible and acceptable, and totally transformed social interactions”. This paved the way for women to realize a freedom never felt before in a society that revolved around the privilege of being a white male. Feelings of “freedom, self-reliance, and independence " were created simply by getting onto a bicycle and leaving the confines of their homes (unchaperoned) and actively engaging in public life. “Young women were gaining more freedoms and with that came confidence and a feeling of empowerment as the Victorian era drew to a close” (Cycle & Style). This created the perfect platform for which women to fight for equal representation (i.e. voting rights) in their democratic country that culminated in the passage of the 19^th amendment in 1920.

TODAY

“For a brief moment in time, the bicycle was THE craze in American life, and it changed things forever” (Macy). The recent installation of bike lanes on Madison Avenue will pave the way for similar movements of greatness right here in Memphis. Ok, well maybe not, but it does allow for a little more elbow room for those seeking an alternative mode of transportation. The debate over bicycles’ presence and placement within the transportation system still lingers. Worries regarding heavier traffic on adjacent streets, a decrease in the amount of business for those on Madison, and even the need for such infrastructure are all valid concerns. However, I would argue that a revitalization of the corridor has begun, at least in some small respect. The road no longer solely serves as a silo for thousands of commuters to make their way to work zipping through Midtown to reach their destinations. Some sense of neighborhood has returned to the strip with an almost inviting urban feel of “take off your coat and stay awhile”. The shops and restaurants that line the street now enjoy on-street parking with some even embracing the change by installing bicycle racks. While reduced visibility to potential customers is a concern, most of these establishments are staples of Midtown with a loyal customer base. In addition, many of the residents that live in Midtown specifically chose the area for its sense of uniqueness, community, and walkability (in terms of numbers of establishments within a small proximity). The new street design enhances these qualities and provides a great platform for the future revitalization projects envisioned for the area, mainly the Overton Square development. While usage of the lanes has diminished with the return of brisk winter winds, many were out pedaling around upon the striping unveiling. The avid bicyclists were out, yes, but there were also families with young children and ladies out enjoying an afternoon ride together. While kinks remain, most especially signage designating the various driving lane s, the platform for revitalization, at least in more of a social sense, has been established. The symbology of accepting new strategies for better living environments and the highly visible presence of bicyclists combine to create a measureable step towards creating positive change for Madison Avenue and greater Memphis.