Fort Ross: Russia’s Stronghold in America

Touring Russia by motorcycle has always been on my bucket list. I enjoy the country’s literature and the Russians I have met have been great people, which is partly why I have wanted to see it.

Sadly, the political climate over my lifetime has never really been right for realizing my dream. Yet, there is a connection between the Russian people and my own touring grounds, not too far from my own favorite routes.

The moment I get on my motorcycle here in northern California, I am surrounded by symbols of Russia’s past influence. Often there is not much there, but depending on where you are touring, that in itself is evidence of what used to be claimed by Russia.

Some California highways will take you right through what used to be New Russia.