Beasts and bicycles, just think of all the fascinating possibilities. Here are three of the stories I found in old newspapers that leapt off the faded pages and bit me ... The Bear, the Bicycle, and the Bloomers Bruin was a performer, a dancing bear who lived with his “master” somewhere in London. Apparently this … Continue reading Bicycle History: Lions & Tigers & Bears … and Bikes!
Tag: cycling history
Around the World With Bicycle History: A King, Sultan, Bullfighter, Deadly Duel & the World’s Most Expensive Bike
The bicycle is everywhere, in every country and culture, and can be used for good and for evil, as you'll see. So, off we go on a quick bike trip around the world: Spain, France, Greece, Russia, Morocco, England, back to Spain and, finally, South Africa. Spain: No Bull Birmingham Daily Post, England, July 2, … Continue reading Around the World With Bicycle History: A King, Sultan, Bullfighter, Deadly Duel & the World’s Most Expensive Bike
The Story of Baby Bliss: The World’s Largest Cyclist
My last post was about Arthur Roadhouse, the boy who rode a bike despite having "no legs and but one arm," according to the 1895 article below. Here's the link. Today: Baby Bliss! Baby Bliss became a national sensation at an early age and remained in the spotlight – and in the newspapers – for … Continue reading The Story of Baby Bliss: The World’s Largest Cyclist
Inventing the Bicycle, Part 2: Velocipede Fever (1817 to 1820)
This is Part 2 of my dive into the history of the bicycle. Here’s the link to Part 1. Baron Von Drais and his machine ... and fancy riding outfit! We’re up to the early 1800s. It took a while for news to travel back then, but travel it did around the world. For example, … Continue reading Inventing the Bicycle, Part 2: Velocipede Fever (1817 to 1820)
Bicycle History: Dogs Have Been Chasing & Biting Cyclists Since the 1700s
Soon after the first velocipedist headed out for a ride, a dog gave “chafe.” Chafe? That’s how they spelled the word chase back in the days of Old English, the long s and the first canine attacks. I found evidence of the delight dogs take in chasing bicycle-like vehicles, and sinking their teeth into riders, as … Continue reading Bicycle History: Dogs Have Been Chasing & Biting Cyclists Since the 1700s
