Book Description

This volume of the Sports She Wrote series presents a trilogy of influential books on 19th-century equestrianism written by women from 1884 to 1893, with more than 100 illustrations, providing readers a window into the world of horsemanship in the Victorian Era. Elizabeth Karr's The American Horsewoman (1884) proudly states that hers is the first book exclusively for women riders written by an American woman. C. De Hurst's How Women Should Ride (1892) is a foundational guide covering essential aspects of horse riding and management with practical lessons for aspiring riders. Alice M. Hayes's The Horsewoman (1893) weaves personal anecdotes and adventurous tales, offering a captivating glimpse into the life of a 19th-century equestrienne. All three books in this trilogy (160,000 words) depict women riding side-saddle, capturing a moment in history when the debate over women riding astride was in its infancy. The side-saddle, symbolic of femininity during this era, adds an intriguing layer to the narratives, showcasing the evolving role of women in the equestrian world. Despite this antiquated perspective, much of the information in the books regarding riding and caring for horses remains relevant today. Two additional volumes about equestrianism in the Sports She Wrote series are Equestrian Reports and Nannie Lambert O’Donoghue. Other volumes with equestrian articles include Diana’s Outdoor Sports; Women on the Hunt; and Adelia Brainerd, The Outdoor Woman of Harper’s Bazar. Sports She Wrote is a 31-volume time-capsule of primary documents written by more than 500 women in the 19th century.