Do you know Major Taylor?

In the late 1890?s bicycle races drew crowds that filled Madison Square Garden; the biggest draw of all was Marshall W. ?Major? Taylor. Having become the undisputed black champion of America, Taylor overcame racial segregation and intolerance to become the one-mile sprint world champion in 1899, and by the end of 1898 held seven world cycling records!

Why is this important?

The University of Pittsburgh?s Center for Minority health and Adventure Cycling Association share the goal of encouraging people from all walks of life and cultural backgrounds, including African Americans, to explore the landscapes and history of America by bicycle. That is why these two organizations are committed to creating an Underground Railroad Bicycle Route.Throughout history black people have used bicycles as a mode of transportation. Both Major Taylor and the Underground Railroad represent the struggle to freedom from slavery and the challenge to eliminate racial and ethnic health disparities.