On the morning of June 25, 1894, 500 people gathered outside the golden-doned State House

in Boston, Massachusetts, as they waited with anticipation, a woman appeared.

Her petite frame was clad in typical Victorian garb of the late 19th century, along skirt,

a high-necked collared shirt, a corset underneath.

Her name, at this point in the story anyway, was Annie Cupchowski, and beside her, was

a bicycle.

Ladies and gentlemen, I appreciate you sending me off as I embark on my bicycle journey

around the world.

Oh sure, Thomas Stevens pulled off the feet of Decker, though, but he was British and

a man.

I, ladies and gentlemen, I, will be the very first American and, more importantly, the

very first woman to peddle around the globe on a two-wheeler.

And what's more, while Mr. Stevens took three years to circle the planet, I will carry

out the feet in less than half that time, just 15 months.

Any questions?

Ms. Cupchowski.

Ms. Cupchowski.

Ms. Cupchowski.

Oh, Ms. Cupchowski.

Uh, Boston Globe here.

Can you tell our readers why, just 15 months, is it true to local businessmen dared you

to do it?

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