Portrait of Helga and Clara Estby taken in Spokane before the start of their walk
The Story of Helga Estby - The Contract
Mystery Commission: Who exactly commissioned the contract is uncertain. According to author Linda Lawrence Hunt the “Women Globe Trotters,” are likely candidates. To Helga Estby the sponsors were known only as "eastern parties".
This offer seemed like a golden opportunity to Helga whose family was facing hard times. The Panic of 1893 was keeping the Estbys from paying their taxes and mortgage. Helga's health issue as well as her husband’s, who had suffered a horse accident, kept them from the strenuous activity their work required. The $10,000 reward would pay the mortgage, taxes, and sustain the family until Ole’s health returned.
As little hesitation as Helga may have had the community and her own family made clear their reservations and outright objection. The Norwegian community did not support the idea of a woman leaving the family and most thought this was a crazy venture that would lead to Helga and Clara's death.
Considering the circumstances, it was a bit crazy. The United States was still fairly underdeveloped compared to the present.
In an attempt to help maintain their Helga asked some dude to write them a sort of recommendation of their character in the form of a calling card (like a business card). They also took the portrait (on the right) to sell along their trek.
Contract Conditions:
1. Must wear a type bicycle skirt introduced at the World's Fair in Chicago (1893). Light gray-flannel with short skirt that fell a few inches below the knee, leggings, and a jacket.
2. Must complete the walk within the seven month deadline.
3. Can leave home with only with $5.00.
4. Must support themselves anyway to buy the necessities but can not beg.
5. Must visit political leaders in the state capitals along their route.
6. Must walk on foot. Cannot use railroad but may accept rides on other vehicles if offered a ride.