In June 1894, Annie Cohen Kopchovsky left Boston on a world journey that lasted until September 1895. Known as Annie Londonderry, she covered thousands of miles by bicycle, but also used ships and trains. That detail helps put her celebrated ride into perspective.
The Londonderry name came from a spring-water sponsor. To help finance her travels, Annie sold photographs of herself, made public appearances and offered advertising space on her bicycle and clothing. She combined travel with a story that people wanted to follow.
Her clothing changed too, from long skirts to trousers and a more practical riding outfit. In her portrait, the bicycle is also a sign of independence: part of an era in which women were expanding their freedom of movement.