1869 English Velocipede
32″ Front wheel
28″ Rear wheel
Height from ground to top of saddle: 34.5″
(Now sold)
Even though they were built in just a short period – from 1868 to 1870 – the overwhelming majority of English velocipedes have unknown makers. Such was the enthusiasm for this novel means of transportation that hundreds of engineers, blacksmiths, coach-builders, wheelwrights, sewing machine manufacturers, toolmakers, gunsmiths and the like jumped on the bandwagon to create a new cycle industry.
The advertising industry was still in its infancy in 1869. Even when a velocipede was advertised for sale in a newspaper or magazine, few were illustrated. Even if there was a picture, the differences between them were mostly in the fine details, which is too hard to discern from a line drawing. There is no known list of all the makers. So it is almost impossible to attribute a manufacturer to a machine nowadays, and the best information that cycle historians can usually offer is the country in which an unknown velocipede was manufactured.
This velocipede, built 155 years ago, is in good original condition. Though the original paint is flaking off, its wooden wheels are in sound condition. While I was photographing it at Lewes Castle this morning, I pushed it around and the wheels did not object to the cobbles. I think it would be okay to ride a short distance on soft ground, but if you plan to ride it regularly I would suggest removing these original wheels for safekeeping and display purposes, and fitting a new set for riding.
In my opinion it was built by a provincial manufacturer. My inspection reveals a replacement saddle pan that would benefit from a piece of leather on top; handlebar grips that are in keeping with the machine, but do not quite match (they look like chisel handles, so it would not be difficult to replace one side); and the ‘moustache’ foot rest on the front has a rust hole on the right side. Otherwise this is a fine original velocipede that should give its new custodian much pleasure. How often do you have the opportunity to buy a 155-year-old bicycle at a reasonable price?
VELOCIPEDE RIDING SCHOOL
