Tillie Andersson, originally from Skåne, Sweden, moved to America in 1889, in search of a better life and at a time when bicycle racing was gaining popularity. She caught “bicycle fever” and after many years of arduous races, became a world champion. In an era where there weren’t very many women athletes, Tillie became a significant figure in the realm of competitive sports as well as women’s rights. Tillie the Terrible Swede is by Susan Stauffacher. Read about Sue's 250-mile bike trip book tour at The Tillie Ride. Check out our #ahistoricalsummer series on Instagram.