1869 Horse Head Velocipede

The relationship between the horse and velocipede was fought on the open road from 1869 onwards. This new fangled mechanical contraption – described by some religious fellows in the early days as ‘the devil’s own steed’ – was easily the winner. Within just a few years  expensive wheeled toys were built for the children of the richest families that combined both horse and wheel.

But it is not generally known that a few full size adult velocipedes around 1869 also featured both horse and wheels in their construction, perhaps the original inspiration behind the children’s versions?

1869 Velocipede with Horse’s Head 

36″ Front Wheel

31″ Rear Wheel

(Now sold)

 

 

 

36″ FRONT WHEEL