The Untold Story of Women in Classic Cars: From Factory to Fame

March 10, 2025

The Untold Story of Women in Classic Cars: From Factory to Fame

When my great-grandmother cruised in her 1950 Shoebox Ford – the inspiration behind our "Pretty in Pink" top – she was part of something bigger than she knew. Today, we're celebrating the amazing women who didn't just admire cars but revolutionized the entire automotive industry.

Meet the Queens of Chrome and Steel

🔧 Bertha Benz: The Original Road Warrior

Before road trips were cool, Bertha Benz made history in 1888 by taking the first long-distance car journey. Fun fact: She even invented brake pads when her original brake lining wore out. Talk about a woman who could think on her feet!

“Before me, no automobile existed!”
Bertha Benz

A staged reenactment of Bertha driving a Model III, with her two sons. Credit: agefotostock / Alamy Stock Photo.

[Shop our Ford Collection, inspired by pioneering women like Bertha →]

🚦 Florence Lawrence: Hollywood's Hidden Automotive Genius

Think turn signals are no big deal? Thank Florence Lawrence! This silent film star wasn't just about the spotlight – she invented the first auto signaling arm and brake signal. She did not patent these inventions, however, and as a result she received no credit for, or profit from either one. Ms. Lawrence, we give you credit, even though almost 100 years later, people still don’t use their signal.
Florence sits in a Lozier open touring car with 1912 Pennsylvania license plates [photo credit: Wisconsin Center for Film and Theater Research]

We've honored her innovation in our '67 Camaro Graphic Tee design!

🎨 Helene Rother: The Design Queen

In 1943, Helene became GM's first female automotive designer, proving that women belonged in every aspect of car culture. Her focus on interior comfort and style influences our design philosophy at Savage Valkyries today.

Helene Rother. (Image: Automotive Hall of Fame)

The Legacy Lives On

These pioneering women paved the way for today's female car enthusiasts, mechanics, and designers. Their spirit lives on in every woman who's ever been told "cars are for boys" – and proved them wrong.