In the 19th century, pedestrianism captivated audiences, led by the remarkable Edward Payson Weston, a 21-year-old bookseller whose wager sparked a movement. Weston committed to walking 478 miles from Boston to Washington, D.C. if Abraham Lincoln won the presidency in 1860. After Lincoln's victory, Weston embarked on this ambitious journey on February 22, 1861, arriving in Washington just hours past his 10-day goal, gaining fame and recognition.

Weston's unique stamina and distinctive gait earned him the nickname the “Wily Wobbler.” His exploits during the Civil War as a Union spy showcased his endurance, further popularizing pedestrianism as a spectator sport with events held in venues like Madison Square Garden.

Key highlights of Weston's career include:

• 1876: Weston attempted to walk 505 miles in six days, a feat that drew international attention.
• 1870: He controversially experimented with coca leaves during races, igniting debates on performance-enhancing substances.
• 1878: The establishment of a “world championship” with a lucrative prize, won by his rival Daniel O’Leary.

Despite its popularity, pedestrianism faced issues with race-fixing and gambling, reminiscent of today's sports betting controversies. The sport waned in the 1890s as interest shifted to faster-paced activities like bicycling and baseball. Weston's later years remained eventful; in 1909, he attempted a cross-country walk from New York to San Francisco, completing 3,895 miles in 104 days, showcasing his lasting legacy in the world of endurance sports.