Nellie Bly’s Record-Breaking Trip Around the World
A Race Against Time and Competition
In 1889, intrepid journalist Nellie Bly embarked on a remarkable journey around the world, unknowingly competing against a reporter from a rival publication. Her goal was to beat the fictional Phileas Fogg’s 80-day odyssey from Jules Verne’s novel.
Bly’s determination and courage propelled her to circumnavigate the globe in just 72 days, setting a world record and besting her own goal of 75 days. Unbeknownst to her, she also beat out her competitor, Elizabeth Bisland of Cosmopolitan magazine.
A Pioneer in Journalism
Nellie Bly, born Elizabeth Jane Cochran, was a trailblazing journalist who shattered the barriers for women in the field. Her exposé on the cruel conditions in Blackwell’s Island’s insane asylum exposed the injustices faced by the mentally ill.
The Race Around the World
Bly’s record-breaking trip began on the “Augusta Victoria” steamship from Hoboken, New Jersey to London, England. Despite enduring seasickness, she made it to London in seven days. From there, she traveled by train to Paris, where she met Jules Verne himself.
As Bly continued her journey through Europe, Egypt, and the Suez Canal, she remained unaware of the competition she was unknowingly involved in. On the same day she departed for London, Bisland left New York headed in the opposite direction.
The Contrast: Bly vs. Bisland
Bly and Bisland presented stark contrasts. Bly was known for her lively and astute observations, while Bisland’s writing was more lyrical and impressionistic. Bly sought notoriety, while Bisland shunned it.
The Impact of Yellow Journalism
Bly’s trip was a product of the era of yellow journalism, when newspapers and magazines sensationalized stories to boost circulation. “Girl reporters” like Bly were often hired as “stunt girls” to attract readers.
The Challenges Faced by Women Reporters
In the 19th century, women reporters faced significant challenges. They were often dismissed as incapable and denied opportunities for advancement. Bly’s success was a testament to her determination and skill.
The Journey Continues
During her trip, Bly sent dispatches to her paper by cable and wrote longer reports that were published by ship. Her editors placed bets on her arrival time and reprinted accounts of her journey from papers around the world.
The Revelation of a Race
Bly was shocked to discover in Hong Kong that she was in a race with Bisland. Undeterred, she pressed forward, eventually arriving back in America after a long journey across the Pacific.
The Triumphant Return
Bly’s arrival in America was met with cheers and celebrations. The World chartered a single-car train to speed her across the country. Along the way, she was greeted with well wishes, telegrams, flowers, and wild hurrahs.
The Aftermath
Bisland, despite losing the race, also gained fame. However, unlike Bly, she retreated from the spotlight and never spoke publicly about her trip after her return. Bly, on the other hand, embarked on a successful lecture tour and continued to break barriers for women in journalism.
The Legacy of Nellie Bly and Elizabeth Bisland
Nellie Bly and Elizabeth Bisland’s record-breaking journeys around the world paved the way for women in journalism. Their stories continue to inspire and remind us of the challenges and triumphs faced by those who dare to break down barriers.