Cycling Through History: The Massachusetts African-American Heritage Bike Route
The Bike Route Vision
A network of 10 to 400-mile bike routes will guide individuals, families and groups on a journey through the places showing the rich African-American history of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Our Mission
We will further knowledge about African-American and related history in Massachusetts, and opportunities for increased physical activity, wellness, adventure and local community involvement, through bicycling.
Main Themes
- Learning - about African-American history as part of the American experience
- Health – Exercise and wellness
- Celebration - of historical figures and ordinary people who make history
- Partnerships – with diverse people in local communities, enhancing civic engagement
- Outdoor biking adventure – for individuals, families, and groups
- Tourism – Massachusetts as a theme tourism destination
Strategy
Our strategy is to create and develop a web-based resource including maps, suggested routes, historical information about African-American heritage and related sites, stories and music. We will develop means to publicize the existence of this resource, and promote its use.
Who Are We?
Our 15 member Board and larger Advisory Council already has over 30 members from all parts of the state, and from diverse occupational and racial/ethnic backgrounds. Our inaugural meeting at the Museum of African American History in June, 2007 launched the effort, and we continue to meet to develop a multi-year plan of action.
We Need You
We need bicyclists, historians, mappers, public health advocates, fitness enthusiasts, people committed to developing good bike routes, people who are interested in local community African- American history, and tourism boosters. If you fit any of these categories and want to know more, contact us.
Join Us
Email us: cyclingblackhistory@gmail.com with your interests, background, and contact information.
