Object Details
- Description
- The Overman Wheel Company of Boston, Massachusetts produced this Victoria Model bicycle during the 1890s. The bicycle bears a nameplate carrying patent dates ranging fThe Overman Wheel Company of Boston, Massachusetts produced this Victoria Model bicycle during the 1890s. The bicycle bears a nameplate carrying patent dates ranging from Nov. 20, 1877 to July 9, 1889. The safety bicycle with two wheels of equal size replaced the high wheeler (penny-farthing) when it was introduced to the US from England in 1887. Unlike the earlier high-wheeled bicycles, the drop frame style of the safety bicycle allowed women to ride by accommodating their skirts.
- The 1890s saw a great boom in bicycling. As the first personal mechanical mode of transportation, the bicycle gave both men and women a thrilling sense of freedom. Cycling was a popular way to get around the city, and on weekends many bike enthusiasts went for rides in the country. Bicyclists played a major role in lobbying for road improvements.
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
- manufacturer
- Overman Wheel Company
- Date made
- 1889
- Credit Line
- Gift of May H. Mead
- Measurements
- overall: 47 in x 23 in x 72 in; 119.38 cm x 58.42 cm x 182.88 cm
- Object Name
- Bicycle
- Victoria Bicycle
- Other Terms
- Bicycle; Victoria Bicycle; Road
