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diff --git a/old/66727-h/66727-h.htm b/old/66727-h/66727-h.htm deleted file mode 100644 index f032645..0000000 --- a/old/66727-h/66727-h.htm +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3724 +0,0 @@ -<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" - "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd"> -<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en"> - <head> - <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html;charset=utf-8" /> - <meta http-equiv="Content-Style-Type" content="text/css" /> - <title> - The Velocipede; Its History, Varieties, and Practice, by Hurd and Houghton—A Project Gutenberg eBook - </title> - <link rel="coverpage" href="images/cover.jpg" /> - <style type="text/css"> - -body { - margin-left: 10%; - margin-right: 10%; -} - - h1,h2,h3 { - text-align: center; /* all headings centered */ - clear: both; -} - -.h2sub {text-align: center; - font-size: smaller; -} - -p { - margin-top: .51em; - text-align: justify; - margin-bottom: .49em; -} - -hr { - width: 33%; - margin-top: 2em; - margin-bottom: 2em; - margin-left: 33.5%; - margin-right: 33.5%; - clear: both; -} - -hr.tb {width: 45%; margin-left: 27.5%; margin-right: 27.5%;} -hr.chap {width: 65%; margin-left: 17.5%; margin-right: 17.5%;} -@media print { hr.chap {display: none; visibility: hidden;} } - -hr.r65 {width: 65%; margin-top: 3em; margin-bottom: 3em; margin-left: 17.5%; margin-right: 17.5%;} - -div.chapter {page-break-before: always;} -h2.nobreak {page-break-before: avoid;} - -table { - margin-left: auto; - margin-right: auto; -} - -td.title {padding-left: 2em; - text-indent: -2em; - vertical-align: top; - } - -td.titl2 {padding-left: 3em; - text-indent: -2em; - } - -td.pageno { /* TOC page number */ - text-align: right; - vertical-align: bottom; -} - -.pagenum { /* uncomment the next line for invisible page numbers */ - /* visibility: hidden; */ - position: absolute; - left: 92%; - font-size: smaller; - text-align: right; - font-style: normal; - font-weight: normal; - font-variant: normal; -} /* page numbers */ - -.blockquot { - margin-left: 5%; - margin-right: 10%; -} - -.center {text-align: center;} - -.right {text-align: right;} - -.smcap {font-variant: small-caps;} - -.allsmcap {font-variant: small-caps; text-transform: lowercase;} - -.gesperrt -{ - letter-spacing: 0.2em; - margin-right: -0.2em; -} - -em.gesperrt -{ - font-style: normal; -} - -/* Images */ - -img { - max-width: 100%; - height: auto; -} - -img.w100 {width: 100%;} - -.figcenter { - margin: auto; - text-align: center; - page-break-inside: avoid; - max-width: 100%; -} - -/* Poetry */ -.poetry-container {text-align: center;} -.poetry {text-align: left; margin-left: 5%; margin-right: 5%;} -/* uncomment the next line for centered poetry in browsers */ -/* .poetry {display: inline-block;} */ -.poetry .stanza {margin: 1em auto;} -.poetry .verse {text-indent: -3em; padding-left: 3em;} -/* large inline blocks don't split well on paged devices */ -@media print { .poetry {display: block;} } -.x-ebookmaker .poetry {display: block;} - -/* Transcriber's notes */ -.transnote {background-color: #E6E6FA; - color: black; - font-size:smaller; - padding:0.5em; - margin-bottom:5em; - font-family:sans-serif, serif; } - -/* Illustration classes */ -.illowp100 {width: 100%;} -.illowp51 {width: 51%;} -.x-ebookmaker .illowp51 {width: 100%;} -.illowp60 {width: 60%;} -.x-ebookmaker .illowp60 {width: 100%;} -.illowp68 {width: 68%;} -.x-ebookmaker .illowp68 {width: 100%;} -.illowp75 {width: 75%;} -.x-ebookmaker .illowp75 {width: 100%;} -.illowp90 {width: 90%;} -.x-ebookmaker .illowp90 {width: 100%;} - -/* Poetry indents */ -.poetry .indent0 {text-indent: -3em;} - - </style> - </head> -<body> -<p style='text-align:center; font-size:1.2em; font-weight:bold'>The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Velocipede, by Anonymous</p> -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms -of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online -at <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you -are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the -country where you are located before using this eBook. -</div> - -<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Title: The Velocipede</p> -<p style='display:block; margin-left:2em; text-indent:0; margin-top:0; margin-bottom:1em;'>Its History, Varieties, and Practice</p> - <p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: Anonymous</p> -<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Release Date: November 13, 2021 [eBook #66727]</p> -<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Language: English</p> - <p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em; text-align:left'>Produced by: deaurider, sf2001, and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive)</p> -<div style='margin-top:2em; margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE VELOCIPEDE ***</div> - - <div class="figcenter illowp100" id="i_cover" style="max-width: 20em;"> - <img class="w100" src="images/cover.jpg" alt="Cover" /> - </div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_i">[Pg i]</span></p> -<div class="figcenter illowp51" id="i_000" style="max-width: 20em;"> - <img class="w100" src="images/i_000.jpg" alt="" /> -</div> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h1><small>THE</small><br /> -VELOCIPEDE;</h1> - -<p class="center"><small>ITS</small><br /> -HISTORY, VARIETIES, AND PRACTICE</p> - -<p class="center"><i>WITH ILLUSTRATIONS.</i></p> - -<p class="center">NEW YORK:<br /> -PUBLISHED BY HURD AND HOUGHTON.<br /> -Cambridge: Riverside Press.<br /> -1869.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_ii">[Pg ii]</span></p> - -<p class="center">Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1869, by<br /> -<span class="smcap">J. T. Goddard</span>,<br /> -in the Clerk’s Office of the District Court for the District of Massachusetts.</p> - -<p class="center">RIVERSIDE, CAMBRIDGE:<br /> -<span class="gesperrt">STEREOTYPED AND PRINTED BY</span><br /> -H. O. HOUGHTON AND COMPANY. -</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_iii">[Pg iii]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="PREFACE">PREFACE</h2> -</div> - -<p>When the rumor first came across the water, a -few years ago, of that wonderful and fascinating -little two-wheeled machine, upon which one could -so gracefully annihilate time and space, the author -of this little book was seized with his first attack of -Velocipede Fever.</p> - -<p>When, in the spring of 1868, we heard how popular -this invention was becoming in France, how -much it was ridden in Paris; in its Boulevards, its -Bois de Boulogne, and on the smooth paths of the -Champs Elysées; how it was employed for amusement -in the Garden of the Tuileries, and by the -laborer in the suburbs going to his daily toil; how -exhilarating to the gentleman, how useful to the messenger -and post-boy, we were again seized with the -disease with renewed virulence.</p> - -<p>We could hardly delay for one from across the -Atlantic, and embraced the first opportunity to learn -the art of riding. While learning, with bruised elbows -and scraped knees, with the bicycle more of -the time on us than we on it, we felt how usefully -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_iv">[Pg iv]</span> -we could employ a few hints of instruction, and how -invaluable we should find some little book that would -tell us all about the machine.</p> - -<p>After we were somewhat proficient, we were -amazed that we had not learned before, and saw -how easily we could have done so, if we had only -been a little informed of the method of procedure.</p> - -<p>When we proposed purchasing, we were all adrift, -as likely to buy a poor machine as a good one, and -anxiously scanned the papers, and inquired of friends -concerning the merits and demerits of each patent -and make.</p> - -<p>So far as we can learn, there has been no book -written upon the Velocipede, either abroad or in this -country.</p> - -<p>It is the design of this little work, not only to give -a few simple directions to guide the beginner, but to -give the history of the machine from its first origin, -to treat accurately and impartially of the strength, -lightness, superiority, and inferiority of each important -machine and patent, and to collect such facts, -statistics, and items, as may be of use and information -to any one interested in the subject.</p> - -<p>We think it an invention which will not have an -ephemeral popularity, but which will, in its way, revolutionize -travel for all time. We love the velocipede, -and can truly quote, “Amor jussit scribere.”</p> - -<p>We wish to thank the various manufacturers for -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_v">[Pg v]</span> -their kindness in giving us information, and to -acknowledge our indebtedness to various newspapers -that have fallen in our way, to the “Scientific -American,” to the “Galaxy,” and to the “Velocipedist,” -and its genial and accomplished young editor.</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p><span class="smcap">Cambridge</span>, <i>March 20, 1869</i>.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_vi">[Pg vi]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CONTENTS">CONTENTS.</h2> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<table summary="Table of Contents"> -<thead> -<tr><td></td><td class="pageno"><span class="allsmcap">PAGE</span></td></tr> -</thead> -<tbody> -<tr><td class="title"><a href="#THE_VELOCIPEDE"> <span class="smcap">The Velocipede: its History and Origin</span> </a></td><td class="pageno"> 7 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="title"><a href="#THE_BICYCLE"> <span class="smcap">The Bicycle</span> </a></td><td class="pageno"> 17 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="title"><a href="#PATENTS_AND_THE_RIGHTS_OF_MANUFACTURERS"><span class="smcap">Patents and the Rights of Manufacturers</span> </a></td><td class="pageno"> 27 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="title"><a href="#HINTS_TO_PURCHASERS"> <span class="smcap">Hints to Purchasers</span> </a></td><td class="pageno"> 35 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="title"><a href="#ADVICE_TO_THE_BEGINNER"> <span class="smcap">Advice to the Beginner</span> </a></td><td class="pageno"> 39 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="title"><a href="#CONSTRUCTION_OF_THE_BICYCLE"> <span class="smcap">Construction of the Bicycle</span> </a></td><td class="pageno"> 45 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="title"><a href="#VARIETIES_OF_THE_BICYCLE"> <span class="smcap">Varieties of the Bicycle</span>: </a></td><td class="pageno"> </td></tr> -<tr><td class="titl2"><a href="#WOOD_BROTHERS_VELOCIPEDE"> Wood Brothers’ Velocipede </a></td><td class="pageno"> 48 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="titl2"><a href="#THE_MONOD_VELOCIPEDE"> The Monod Velocipede </a></td><td class="pageno"> 50 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="titl2"><a href="#WITTYS_VELOCIPEDE"> Witty’s Velocipede </a></td><td class="pageno"> 51 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="titl2"><a href="#PICKERINGS_AMERICAN_VELOCIPEDE"> Pickering’s American Velocipede </a></td><td class="pageno"> 52 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="titl2"><a href="#SARGENT_VELOCIPEDE"> Sargent Velocipede </a></td><td class="pageno"> 55 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="titl2"><a href="#KIMBALLS_VELOCIPEDE"> Kimball’s Velocipede </a></td><td class="pageno"> 57 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="titl2"><a href="#THE_DEXTER_BICYCLE"> The Dexter Bicycle </a></td><td class="pageno"> 61 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="titl2"><a href="#THE_CHICAGO_VELOCIPEDE"> The Chicago Velocipede </a></td><td class="pageno"> 62 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="title"><a href="#FOUR-WHEELED_VELOCIPEDES"> <span class="smcap">Four-wheeled Velocipedes</span>: </a></td><td class="pageno"> </td></tr> -<tr><td class="titl2"><a href="#BRADFORDS_VELOCIPEDE"> Bradford’s Velocipede </a></td><td class="pageno"> 64 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="titl2"><a href="#CALLAHANS_VELOCIPEDE"> Callahan’s Velocipede </a></td><td class="pageno"> 67 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="title"><a href="#THE_TRICYCLE"> <span class="smcap">The Tricycle</span> </a></td><td class="pageno"> 70 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="title"><a href="#HEMMINGS_UNICYCLE"> <span class="smcap">Hemming’s Unicycle, or “Flying Yankee Velocipede”</span> </a></td><td class="pageno"> 76 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="title"><a href="#VELOCIPEDES_FOR_LADIES"> <span class="smcap">Velocipedes for Ladies</span> </a></td><td class="pageno"> 85 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="title"><a href="#VELOCIPEDE_SCHOOLS_AND_RINKS"> <span class="smcap">Velocipede Schools and Rinks</span> </a></td><td class="pageno"> 90 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="title"><a href="#WHERE_SHALL_WE_RIDE"> “<span class="smcap">Where shall we ride?</span>” </a></td><td class="pageno"> 97 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="title"><a href="#VELOCIPEDE_RACING"> <span class="smcap">Velocipede Racing</span> </a></td><td class="pageno"> 99 </td></tr> -<tr><td class="title"><a href="#VELOCIPEDE_LITERATURE"> <span class="smcap">Velocipede Literature</span> </a></td><td class="pageno"> 103</td></tr> -<tr><td class="title"><a href="#VELOCIPATHY"> <span class="smcap">Velocipathy. The Velocipede from a Medical Point of View</span> </a></td><td class="pageno"> 104</td></tr> -</tbody> -</table> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_7">[Pg 7]</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="THE_VELOCIPEDE">THE VELOCIPEDE:</h2> -</div> - -<p class="h2sub">ITS HISTORY AND ORIGIN.</p> - -<p>We have spent much time in fruitless and weary -researches over old French books and musty journals, -and have found that there is but very little about the -Velocipede, in the literature, or dictionaries and encyclopedias -of ancient or modern times.</p> - -<p>In the “Journal de Paris” of July 27, 1779, there -is a description of a vehicle invented by Messrs. -Blanchard and Mesurier, the former the celebrated -aeronaut, which was exhibited on the Place Louis -XV., named to-day Place de Concorde, in the presence -of many members of the French Academy and -a large concourse of spectators. At the head of the -machine was the figure of an eagle, with outspread -wings, to which was attached the apparatus with -which the driver directed its movements. Behind it -was seated an individual who propelled the machine. -At a subsequent date, the inventor transported the -vehicle to Versailles, and exhibited its capabilities, -in the presence of Louis XVI., Marie Antoinette, -and their effeminate court.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_8">[Pg 8]</span> -At a later date M. Dreuze made an improvement -on this invention, which met with some success as a -toy. A number of these machines were constructed -after his model, and distributed among country postmen, -who used the novelty for a time, until a heavy -fall of snow rendered them unserviceable, when they -were abandoned, greatly to the gratification of a conservative -class, who, detesting anything in the way -of innovation, had prophesied their failure.</p> - -<p>The article upon the Velocipede in the “American -Encyclopedia,” commences by giving the well-known -derivation of the word from the Latin <i>velox</i>, swift, -and <i>pes</i>, a foot, and defines it as a carriage, by means -of which the rider propels himself along the ground, -and states that it was invented at Manheim.</p> - -<p>In a little old French book called “Dictionnaire -de Conversation,” under the word <i>Velocipede</i>, we -are referred to the word <i>Drasienne</i>, on turning to -which, we find a description of the three-wheeled -arm movement Velocipede, and the credit of its invention -ascribed to Baron Charles Drais de Saverbrun, -at Manheim, at the early commencement of the -nineteenth century. The Drasienne, though a decidedly -crude idea, differed very materially from the -clumsy structure of Messrs. Blanchard and Mesurier.</p> - -<p>Baron Drais de Saverbrun seems to be universally -considered the inventor of the germ, which has developed -into the present improved Velocipede. He -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_9">[Pg 9]</span> -was a man of considerable scientific attainments, -and author of several works; son of a lawyer, himself -a landscape gardener; and died at Carlsruhe, -December 12, 1851. He was master of the woods -and forests of the Grand Duke of Baden, and rode -about upon the Drasienne, while performing his official -duties.</p> - -<p>This invention made its <i>début</i> in 1816, in the garden -of Tivoli, which was at that time the favorite -resort of the <i>crême de la crême</i> of Parisian society. -As originally constructed it appears to have been of -the most simple kind. It consisted of a bar five feet -long, supported at each end upon a single wheel, that -designed for the front being so arranged as to turn -obliquely to the line of the carriage. The rider sat -astride the bar, and propelled the machine by the -action of the feet upon the ground. The motion -was much like walking upon the heels; as the feet -were brought down flat, the heels were the first to -touch. The vehicle was never generally patronized, -because the pleasure of riding it was counterbalanced -by the labor of propelling it. It was called the “Célérifère,” -or “makespeed,” and many shafts of ridicule -were leveled mercilessly at it. The mode of -propelling it was not graceful, and this ridicule was -not without foundation. It disappeared from view -in France almost as rapidly as its inventor expected -it to roll into public favor.</p> - -<p> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_10">[Pg 10]</span> -This novel vehicle, under the name of “Drasina” -was introduced into England in 1818, and, at first, -the greatest possible expectations were created, with -regard to its usefulness and speed. It was maintained, -that it would travel up-hill on a post-road as -fast as a man could walk; that on a level, even after -a heavy rain, it would average six or seven miles an -hour; and that, on a descent, it would equal a horse -at full speed. It was described in the advertisements -of the day as “consisting of two wheels, one behind -the other, connected by a perch, on which a saddle is -placed as a seat. The front wheel is made to turn -on a pivot, guided by a circular lever or rudder, which -comes up to the hand; <i>the fore-arms rest on a cushion -in front</i>; in this position, both hands holding the -rudder firmly, the machine and traveller are preserved -<i>in equilibrio</i>.”</p> - -<p>In 1821 Lewis Gompertz of Surrey, introduced -some decided improvements upon the Drasina, as -will be seen from the accompanying engraving, extracted -from the 39th volume of the English “Repertory -of Arts.”</p> - -<div class="figcenter illowp90" id="i_011" style="max-width: 20em;"> - <img class="w100" src="images/i_011.jpg" alt="" /> -</div> - -<p>The object of the improvement of Gompertz was -to bring the arms of the rider into action, in assistance -to his legs. It consisted “in the application of -a handle, C, which is to be worked backwards and -forwards, to which is attached a circular rack, D G, -which works in a pinion, E, with ratch wheel on the -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_11">[Pg 11]</span> -front wheel of the velocipede, and which, on being -pulled by the rider with both hands, sends the machine -forward; and when thrust from him does not -send it back again, on account of the ratch, which -allows the pinion to turn in that direction, free of the -wheel. H is the saddle, and the rest, B is so made -that the breast of the rider bears against it, while the -sides come around him at some distance below the -arms, and is stuffed.” The rider could with this machine -either propel it entirely without the feet, or he -could use the feet, while the arms were free. The -beam, A, was made of beech wood, and a pivot at -F, allowed the front wheel to be turned to the right -or left at the will of the rider. This must have been, -although somewhat clumsily shaped, quite an efficient -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_12">[Pg 12]</span> -machine, good for the times—forty-eight years -ago. It will be seen that it has many features -in common with the one now in vogue, though the -difference in the manner of propelling completely -changes the character of the vehicle.</p> - -<p>Among those who distinguished themselves on the -velocipede in England was Michael Faraday the -chemist, who frequently drove his machine through -the suburbs of London.</p> - -<p>The velocipede was cultivated most assiduously -for some little time by the sporting gentry of England; -but Lord George Bentinck and other persons -of fashion finally pronounced so decidedly against it, -that it descended to the vulgar level of a plaything -for young people, and ceased to be regarded in any -other light than that of a toy or hobby. While the -fever lasted, a shoemaker of London made much -money by the manufacture of a strong shoe, soled -with iron, which greatly aided the feet of the “Velocipeders,” -as they went over the ground.</p> - -<p>William Howitt, in his “Visits to Remarkable -Places,” a book published in 1841, makes mention -of the velocipede as follows—the passage is taken -from a description of Alnwick Castle, the ancient seat -of the Percy family: “Among the curiosities laid up -here, are also two velocipedes, machines which twenty -years ago were for a short period much in vogue. -One young man of my acquaintance rode on one of -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_13">[Pg 13]</span> -these wooden horses all the way from London to -Falkirk in Scotland, and was requested at various -towns to exhibit his management of it to the ladies -and gentlemen of the place. He afterward made a -long excursion to France upon it. He was a very -adroit velocipedean, and was very much amused with -the circumstance of a gentleman meeting him by the -river side, who, requesting to be allowed to try it, -and being shown how he must turn the handle in -order to guide it, set off with great spirit, but turning -the wrong way, soon found himself hurrying to the -edge of the river, where in his flurry, instead of turning -the handle the other way, he began lustily shouting -‘Woh!’ ‘woh!’ and so crying plunged headlong -into the stream. The Duke’s horse, which is laid up -here for the gratification of posterity, was, I believe, -not so unruly; yet I was told its pranks caused it to -be disused and here stabled. It is said that the duke -and his physicians used to amuse themselves with -careering about the grounds on these steeds; but one -day being somewhere on the terrace, his grace’s Trojan -steed capsized, and rolled over and over with him -down the green bank, much to the amusement of a -troop of urchins who were mounted on a wall by the -road to witness this novel kind of racing. On this -accident the velocipede was laid up in lavender, and -a fine specimen of the breed it is. I asked the old -porter if the story was true, but he only said, ‘Mind! -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_14">[Pg 14]</span> -I did not tell you that. Don’t pretend to say, if you -write any account of this place, that you had that -from me.’”</p> - -<p>The machine was introduced into New York in -1819, where it was given the English name of “Hobby-horse” -or “Dandy-horse.” The excitable citizens -went into an ecstasy of astonishment and delight, -and the manufacturers found it impossible to meet -the demand. A place was opened for their exhibition -near Bowling Green, and people used to run on -them up and down the Bowery, and the hill that led -from Chatham Street to the City Hall Park. The -rage for them soon extended throughout the country; -and we hear of them in Philadelphia, Yonkers, Troy, -Saratoga, and Boston. At Troy in the fall of 1819, -a firm, Davis and Rogers, manufactured a number of -machines, and used to let them to the young bloods -about town, at twenty-five cents an hour. In Boston -they became quite common, and, moonlight -nights, students from the classic shades of Old Harvard -could be seen running them across the long -bridge into the city.</p> - -<p>In a New York paper of those days we find an interesting -account of a newly invented velocipede for -ladies then building “by a distinguished artist.” “It -is to have beams, or bodies on springs, and four -wheels which will insure its safety. It is to quarter -on the road like other carriages; and with four <i>impellers</i> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_15">[Pg 15]</span> -it is supposed it will proceed with astonishing -rapidity; but its peculiar recommendation is to be -conveyance of two ladies and two <i>impellers</i> at the -rate of six miles an hour.”</p> - -<p>The “Ladies Literary Cabinet” (published corner -Chatham and Duane streets), of Saturday, August 9, -1819, gives a very amusing account of a hoax which -seems to have completely deceived the citizens: -“<span class="smcap">Velocipede Hoax.</span> Some mischievous wag on -Saturday last, caused printed hand-bills to be distributed, -announcing that on Monday at five o’clock -precisely, a velocipede would start from the head of -Chatham Square, and proceed to St. Paul’s Church -in less than two minutes, and that it would afterward -be exhibited in the Park, etc. Notwithstanding -the rain on Monday, the people began to collect -at an early hour, so that before five o’clock Chatham -Street was literally crowded from one end to the -other. Every window from the basement to the -attic was thrown open, and filled with the beautiful -heads of ladies and children, exposed to the incessant -searching mist, which robbed their lovely tresses -of every curl which the morning’s industry had -created. But female fortitude and curiosity combined, -are not to be shaken by wind and weather. -For more than an hour did the throng continue to -increase, until it was almost impossible to pass the -street with or without a velocipede. In the mean -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_16">[Pg 16]</span> -time, the Park was also crowded, and the City Hall -exhibited the appearance of a gala-day. It is needless -to say that no velocipede appeared.”</p> - -<p>Since that time down to a recent day, when M. -Lallement, of France, took it in hand, all experiments -to render the machine subservient to practical -purposes appear to have been unsatisfactory, and it -has only been used as a toy, with the modification -of a third wheel. M. Lallement succeeded in affixing -to the front wheel of the two-wheeled machine, -treadles which should be acted upon by the feet. -His success attending his endeavors to ride it, was -beyond his most sanguine expectations. After becoming -a thorough master of the tandem team, he -appeared upon the Champs Elysées, and created a -genuine <i>furore</i>. People not only wondered that -such a strange machine should run so swiftly, but -that it should run at all upon two wheels in a line. -He obtained a patent upon his velocipede, and sold -it to Messrs. Michaux & Co., of Paris, who have -since improved much upon it. M. Lallement, with -James Carroll, of New Haven, Conn., obtained a -patent in this country in 1866.</p> - -<p>The machines now in use are so radically different -from those of fifty years ago, so perfect in propelling -power, so easy to ride, so swift of motion, so useful -as a means of conveyance, that it seems impossible -for history to repeat itself with regard to the present -mania.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_17">[Pg 17]</span></p> - -<div class="figcenter illowp75" id="i_017" style="max-width: 20em;"> - <img class="w100" src="images/i_017.jpg" alt="" /> -</div> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="THE_BICYCLE">THE BICYCLE.</h2> -</div> - -<p>Of the various kinds of velocipedes, four, three, -two, and one wheeled, the bicycle seems to be considered -the most artistic, is altogether the most in -favor, and steadily maintains its ground against all -rivals. Whether it will be the model velocipede of -the future remains to be seen. The various experiments -now being tried will, no doubt, eventually -result in a nearly perfect machine, but it will require -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_18">[Pg 18]</span> -a season’s experience fully to develop the ingenuity -of our American artisans.</p> - -<p>Many have expressed doubts as to the real utility -of the velocipede, and the permanency of its use. -They seem to think it a frivolous invention only calculated -to serve purposes of amusement, and soon -to be superseded by some other ephemeral claimant -for popularity. Most of these have based their opinions -upon the disuse into which rude machines have -fallen in former times. But the difference in the -construction of the modern velocipede from the -primitive one has entirely changed the character of -the vehicle. It is no longer a draft vehicle, but a -locomotive, and as much superior to the original bar -on wheels, as the improved steam locomotive is to -the old time stage-coach.</p> - -<p>We believe in the utility, convenience, and economy -of the innovation, as well as in its capacity for -affording amusement, and developing strength and -skill; and believe as now improved, it is destined -to mark an era in the history of vehicles. It has -passed the period of being a mere toy, and although -as the novelty wears away, there may be less enthusiasm, -it will continue to be used, and in an increasing -degree, for street locomotion. With those who -live in the cities and require a daily exercise, exhilarating, -pleasant, healthful, and free from expense; -with those who reside in the country and have long -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_19">[Pg 19]</span> -distances to traverse daily in reaching the scene of -their labors, or with those who have leisure and -wealth at their command, but love such exercises as -afford an opportunity for the display of grace, agility, -and skill, the velocipede has already become as great -a favorite in this country as it is in France and England.</p> - -<p>Its want of adaptability to the roughly paved -road-ways of our cities, is already, in a great measure, -overcome, and experience has proved its facility <i>in -rure</i>. We have seen the bicycle run with ease on -country roads, and dashing with full speed through -city streets, totally regardless of curbstones or crossings. -In New York, no matter where you go, a -velocipede is sure to whiz past you. The school-boy -rides up Fifth Avenue in the morning, with his books -strapped before him. In Broadway, where stages, -wagons, carts, trucks, and carriages, clog the street -from morning till night, the iron steed may be seen -gracefully cutting its way among the larger vehicles.</p> - -<p>The exercise is not tiresome, except to the beginner. -We have found twelve miles on a country -road no more fatiguing than a brisk walk of two. -We believe a man may ride and drive one at the -rate of ten miles an hour, with less fatigue than he -could walk one quarter of that distance. Some people -ride easier than others, as some skate easier. -Some people make hard work of anything. Lazy -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_20">[Pg 20]</span> -people will never fall in love with the bicycle, because -to ride one requires all the faculties to be alive and -in action. To keep one’s balance, however, does -not require that constant labor and exertion which -novices suppose. “Familiarity breeds contempt,” -the old adage says. Familiarity with the bicycle -becomes a sort of second nature, and a velocipedean, -after a fair amount of experience, finds himself almost -as perfectly at home astride his two-wheeler, -as he does on his feet.</p> - -<p>When John Brent rode his horse across the plains -in search of adventure, the era of the two-wheeled -velocipede had not come upon us. We think the -bicycle an animal, which will, in a great measure, -supersede the horse. It does not cost as much; it -will not eat, kick, bite, get sick, or die. It requires -no stabling, no feed, no water, no curry-comb. It -never “balks,” or “rares up.” It never needs a halter -or a harness. It is light, and little, and leans -lovingly against you for support. Its gait is uniform -and easy, beautiful and exhilarating to see, and simple -to analyze. It glides along with smooth grace, -as though it were alive.</p> - -<p>Young America is pictured coming in on a velocipede. -Henry Ward Beecher thinks the coming man -will ride one, and we shall not be surprised to see -his prediction fulfilled, and devout worshippers propelling -themselves to church on Sunday with all due -gravity and decorum.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_21">[Pg 21]</span> -Velocipeding is a hopeful sign of progress. If -that man is a benefactor who makes two blades of -grass grow where but one grew before, he should -come in for a share of praise, who teaches a man to -go ten miles as easily and as quickly as he previously -went one. “Time is money;” and whatever of it -is saved is often so much cash. As the velocipede -serves its purpose in this direction, it may be regarded -as a good savings institution.</p> - -<p>We think that decided good will grow out of this -invention. Riding the velocipede affords pleasurable -excitement, which is what most men drink liquor -for, and it leaves no sting behind. It takes men -from the bar-rooms out into the pure air, into God’s -light and sunshine, and braces their lungs with the -very breath of Heaven. It stimulates them to save -what they would otherwise spend foolishly, that they -may invest it in a machine which is a source of -health and pleasure, as well as of utility. It is an -inducement to young men who work in close apartments -to spend more time in the open air, and furnishes -them a means of healthful, invigorating, and, -at the same time, pleasant exercise, such as nothing -else can possibly afford.</p> - -<p>Serious accidents on the velocipede are almost -unheard of, and the predictions that these machines -would prove dangerous have not been verified. It -will fall down, but the rider need not fall with it -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_22">[Pg 22]</span> -unless he chooses. It is no more dangerous than a -horse and carriage, under any circumstances, and -not nearly so much so, with ordinary caution.</p> - -<p>The speed attained by the swifter kind of velocipede -on the roads, averages from twelve to thirteen -miles an hour. On a smooth, level floor, such a -speed can be maintained with but little effort on -almost any machine. It is safe to say that a good -velocipede rider can travel a hundred miles as quickly -as an ordinary horse with an ordinary load. Of -course, the more a person rides, the easier it becomes, -and the less the fatigue.</p> - -<p>In impelling a velocipede, the limbs are not constantly -in motion; for on level ground, when the -impetus is at the average rate, or when the machine -is descending an incline, the feet may be removed -from the pedals, and the legs be placed on the bar, -fixed in front of the machine for that purpose. A -slight impulsion to the vehicle from time to time suffices -to keep up the speed. When a rider encounters -a formidable hill, he can dismount and lead his bicycle -by the hand. He can do this with almost the -same ease that he can carry an ordinary walking-stick. -A hill, to be insurmountable, has to be, however, -of more than average steepness. Though -Massachusetts is proverbially hilly, there is no ascent -between Boston and Worcester, a distance of -thirty miles, that cannot be ridden over with the -bicycle.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_23">[Pg 23]</span> -The best speed thus far attained on the road is a -mile in a few seconds over three minutes. A gentleman -in New Jersey, a few weeks since, travelled -fifty miles in four hours and a half. A gentleman -residing in 22d Street, New York, goes down town -to his business on his velocipede in twelve minutes. -Adepts abroad find no difficulty whatever in accomplishing -fully fifty miles in five hours, without once -alighting from their vehicles. A few months ago, a -couple of amateurs, making a tour through a part of -France, challenged each other as to which could perform -the greatest distance in four and twenty hours. -One accomplished eighty-seven miles, the other one -hundred and twenty-three. A party of nine quitted -Rouen early in the morning on their velocipedes, -and arrived in Paris in time for dinner the same -evening; having performed the distance of eighty-five -miles, exclusive of stoppages, and at a rate of -speed averaging between ten and twelve miles an -hour. An English gentleman travelled the distance -from London to Bristol, one hundred and thirty-five -miles, between the hours of three o’clock, <span class="allsmcap">P. M.</span>, one -day, and ten <span class="allsmcap">A. M.</span> the next, stopping some hours in -Reading.</p> - -<p>In Paris, the Americans carry off the prizes for -slow as well as fast riding. The slow riding is much -the more difficult. It is much easier for the rider to -keep his equilibrium while riding swiftly.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_24">[Pg 24]</span></p> - -<p>Dr. Oliver Wendell Holmes once published an article -in the “Atlantic Monthly,” entitled “The Human -Wheel; its Spokes and Felloes;” in which he treated -the act of walking as analagous to the movement -of a wheel: the legs being the spokes and the feet -the felloes. Had he postponed his humorous and -instructive essay a year or two, he would have found -himself behind the age.</p> - -<p>It is perhaps not generally known to what an extent -the bicycle mania prevails, and how rapidly the -idea has germinated, budded, and bloomed, not only -throughout our own country, but in various parts of -the world. In New York some ten thousand pupils -are ready to graduate from the schools and appear -upon the roads. In Boston there will soon be nearly -as many more; while Philadelphia, Chicago, St. -Louis, and San Francisco count their experts by the -hundred and their novices by the thousand. We -hear of the bicycle in the far West and in Texas. -We read that New Orleans proposes to purchase -velocipedes for its fire companies, and hear of a -velocipede military company in Louisville. We -play velocipede music, and in our walks velocipede -“Livery Stables” and “Velocipedes to Let,” greet -our eyes. The shop-windows on our fashionable -thoroughfares display Velocipede Hats, Velocipede -Gloves, and Velocipede Shoes.</p> - -<p>The machines have become so numerous on the -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_25">[Pg 25]</span> -sidewalks of Providence, New Bedford, and other -New England towns, that the stunned authorities -contemplated prohibiting their use, as a nuisance. -The various merits of various machines are discussed -on the street corners with as much zeal as -were ever the diversified merits of horse-flesh; and -experts are to be heard talking of these new substitutes -for legs as jockeys are wont to talk of the -wind, strength, bottom, gait, and “go” of Eclipses, -Dexters, and Ethan Allens.</p> - -<p>In France, fashion writers and fashion leaders -rack their brains for the contrivance of velocipede -costumes; velocipede clubs are formed; velocipede -championships contested for at velocipede tournaments. -There are not less than ten thousand -machines running in the streets of Paris. They are -used by postmen, government employees, students, -messengers, and peddlers; and shopmen send their -clerks about on machines covered with flashy advertisements. -All velocipedes there are required to carry -lanterns in the evening, and though we have no such -regulations here, young gentlemen may be seen almost -every night, in our cities, riding their velocipedes -with head-lights attached.</p> - -<p>In Paris they can be seen driving at break-neck -speed along the narrow stone parapet beside the -Seine, and even down the hundred steps of the Trocadéro, -their riders all the time indulging in gymnastic -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_26">[Pg 26]</span> -feats that would seem to invite certain destruction. -At Rome, gentlemen practice the bicycle in the court-yards, -and are seen riding on the Piazza de Spagna. -Country trips are taken upon them in Japan, and -they are no longer a novelty in the streets of the -larger Chinese cities.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_27">[Pg 27]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="PATENTS_AND_THE_RIGHTS_OF_MANUFACTURERS">PATENTS AND THE RIGHTS OF MANUFACTURERS.</h2> -</div> - -<p>Early in last winter, a great rivalry began to develop -itself in the business of manufacturing velocipedes; -and the demand became so large, as to lead -the principal carriage-makers of the country into -making it an important branch of their business. -At that time it was generally understood that any -manufacturer was at liberty to make the two-wheeled -velocipede, in any way he deemed most profitable.</p> - -<p>When the <i>furore</i> first manifested itself, Mr. Calvin -Witty of Broadway, New York, saw it would be -a “big thing,” and very quietly went to work to -find out in what way the business of making the -machine could be controlled. He ascertained, by -careful investigation, that a patent had been recorded, -covering the principal features of the bicycle, -now in such popular use. He sought out the owners -of the patent, found them in moderate circumstances, -eager to turn to account rights which had heretofore -been of but little avail, and purchased of them for a -comparatively small sum. He now claims to hold -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_28">[Pg 28]</span> -the right to the exclusive use of the two-wheeled -velocipede, with treadle and guiding arms. This -patent, however, does not cover the idea of making -a two-wheeled machine, or of applying a propelling -power.</p> - -<p>As soon as Mr. Witty had completed his arrangements, -he ascertained the names of parties engaged -in manufacturing velocipedes throughout the country, -and the majority of them were the astonished -recipients of the following notification:—</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> -<p class="right"> -“<span class="smcap">No. 638 Broadway, N. Y.</span>, <i>Feb. 3d, 1869</i>.<br /> -</p> - -<p>“You are hereby notified, that Letter Patent No. 59,915, -granted Nov. 20th, 1866, secures a velocipede with the -two wheels, treadle, and guiding arms; and that the velocipede -you are manufacturing is an infringement upon said -patent. The present is to require you to cease the further -manufacture of said velocipede, and to settle with me for -all past infringements of the rights under said patent.</p> - -<p class="right">(Signed)   “<span class="allsmcap">CALVIN WITTY.</span>”</p> -</div> - -<p>The following is a copy of the record of the patent, -registered at the Patent Office in Washington:—</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>“Patent No. 59,915. Pierre Lallement, Paris, France, -assignor to himself and James Carroll, New Haven, Conn. -Velocipede. Nov. 20th, 1866.</p> - -<p>“The fore wheel is axled in the jaws of a depending -bar which is riveted in the frame, and turned by a horizontal -lever bar. This wheel is revolved by a treadle crank.<br /> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_29">[Pg 29]</span> -Claim: The combination and arrangement of the two -wheels, provided with the treadles and the guiding arms, -so as to operate substantially, and for the purpose, herein -set forth.”</p> -</div> - -<p>Some manufacturers were nonplused by Mr. Witty’s -warning, and stopped their work entirely. Others -paid no attention to the demand, considering the -royalty required worthy of a trial; for if it could be -proved that a similarly constructed velocipede had -been introduced into the country before the date of -application, the inventor being an alien, the patent -would be void; or it would be rendered null also, if -the patentee had neglected to put into market and -continue the sale of the invention, within eighteen -months after the date of patent. Others still, including -most of the carriage-makers and machinists of -note in the country, who had gone into this business, -took pains to have legal advice upon the subject. A -meeting was finally held by them; and the result was -a determination to purchase State and city rights, for -the use of his patent, of Mr. Witty.</p> - -<p>We give the names of the prominent firms and parties -who have received licenses for the manufacture -and sale of velocipedes, under Patent No. 59,915:—</p> - -<p>Wm. P. Sargent & Co., and John P. Whittier, Boston, -Mass., Massachusetts, Vermont, and New Hampshire, -excepting the cities of New Bedford, Taunton, -Fall River, and Fair Haven, Mass.; Kimball Bros., -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_30">[Pg 30]</span> -Boston, for the State of Maine; Wood Bros., Connecticut, -excepting one shop right; Pickering & Davis, -New York City, one shop right; Mercer & Monod, -New York City, one shop right; C. Merrill and -Sons, Brooklyn, one shop right. G. L. Brownell, -New Bedford, Mass., New Bedford exclusive; G. C. -Elliott, Providence, R. I., Rhode Island exclusive. -J. M. Quimby, Newark, N. J., New Jersey exclusive.</p> - -<p>Mr. Witty now has his hands full of business; -employs three clerks to write for him constantly, and -has fallen upon a mine of wealth, if he succeeds in -maintaining the validity of his claim. He charges -the manufacturers ten dollars apiece, royalty, for -every machine turned out. If a maker, however, -obtains a license to manufacture less than a hundred, -he pays fifteen dollars royalty; if under twenty, -twenty-five dollars apiece.</p> - -<p>Sargent and Whittier, of Boston, and many others -of the manufacturers, who have purchased State -and town rights, have sent out within their limits -circulars similar to those of Mr. Witty, but with the -following N. B. attached:—</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>“Those using the two-wheeled velocipedes, not -manufactured under a license, and not having the -proper stamp, are also liable for infringement upon -said letter patent.”</p> -</div> - -<p>We present an engraving taken from the Patent -Office Reports, showing the Lallement patent of -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_31">[Pg 31]</span> -1866. In this <i>veloce</i> the cranks, F, are points of -great interest, as the claim is for the combination of -these treadle cranks with the two wheels A and B, -reach C, guiding arms D, and the fork in which the -front wheel is hung. We attribute the unpopularity -of the old dandy-horse to its lack of these cranks, -while the great success of the modern <i>veloce</i> is due -to the crank application. In this <i>veloce</i> it will be -noticed that the reach, C, extends over the rear -wheel, and a V brace on each side of the wheel connects -the axle to the reach. With this style of reach -or frame, it was found very difficult to construct a -<i>veloce</i> sufficiently steady to run with any degree of -satisfaction.</p> - -<div class="figcenter illowp100" id="i_031" style="max-width: 20em;"> - <img class="w100" src="images/i_031.jpg" alt="" /> -</div> - -<p>There is still another New York patentee, Stephen -W. Smith, who claims that the so-called French -Velocipede is an American invention, perfected in -this country, and introduced into France by patent, -and personally by himself; and that the idea was -stolen from him by the French manufacturers. He -obtained his patent in 1862, for a “cantering propeller” -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_32">[Pg 32]</span> -for children, or hobby-horse mounted on -wheels; and considers his patent to include the combinations -used upon all velocipedes, and threatens to -prosecute infringements.</p> - -<p>This patent has lately been reissued for the purpose -of widening the claims and to attempt to cover -the whole ground occupied by the patent bicycle of -M. Lallement. The reissued claim is as follows:—</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>“1st claim, in combination with a saddle-seat for the -rider, the employment and use of a cranked axle, arms, -and foot-rest, so arranged that the power applied by the -feet of the rider shall give motion to the vehicle, substantially -as described and specified.</p> - -<p>“2. The combination of the following elements, namely, -a saddle-seat for the rider, a cranked axle, for propelling -the vehicle by power applied by the feet of the rider, and -a steering mechanism so constructed that the direction of -travel of the vehicle may be governed by the rider, substantially -as described and specified.</p> - -<p>“3. The universal joint, in combination with the fulcrum -of the vehicle, and the steering wheel, constructed and -operating substantially as, and for, the purposes specified.</p> - -<p>“4. The hinged legs in combination with the body of the -horse, and with the cranks substantially as and for the -purposes specified.</p> - -<p>“5. The foot-rests upon the arms, substantially as and for -the purposes specified.</p> - -<p>“6. The double-armed levers, and diagonal cords, in combination -with the handle and steering wheel, substantially -as described and specified.”</p> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_33">[Pg 33]</span></p> - -<p>The first and second claims are intended to embrace, -and do embrace, as far as words can accomplish -it, the essential elements of the velocipede now -in use. It remains to be determined by the courts -how far the rival claimants clash with each other. -The manufacturers have as yet paid but very little -attention to the demands of Mr. Smith.</p> - -<p>In 1867, the Hanlon Brothers devised an improved -style of reach, consisting of a bifurcated bar, or fork, -in the jaws of which the hind wheel is allowed to -revolve; while the single end of this fork forms part -of the swivel, over the front wheel. Not yet satisfied -with this <i>veloce</i>, on account of the difficulty they -found in using the same machine for their in-door -performances, and out-door exhibitions, they had the -saddle arranged so as to be enabled to vary its position -nearer to, or farther from, the front wheel, and -at the same time had slots made in the cranks, so -that the treadle might be adjusted to various lengths. -The alterations were found to be of such benefit, -that application for a patent covering these improvements -was made by them, and granted by the Patent -Office. We know of no velocipedes now being -made in this country, which do not include in their -construction all these late improvements, and the -Hanlons are also notifying manufacturers of the existence -of their claims.</p> - -<p>The Patent powers in Washington are literally -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_34">[Pg 34]</span> -overwhelmed with applications for patents of different -models of these articles. In a large room in the -Patent Office, there are some four hundred of these -models awaiting investigation. Over eighty models -have already been examined and patents for them -issued; others are now under examination. Some -hundred caveats or notices that patents will be applied -for have been lately filed. In one week eighty -applications and caveats were received. One single -agency in New York city has lately prepared seventy -patents for improvements.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_35">[Pg 35]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="HINTS_TO_PURCHASERS">HINTS TO PURCHASERS.</h2> -</div> - -<p>There is a very general complaint of the high -prices maintained by the manufacturers of velocipedes, -and it is claimed that they are pocketing -immense receipts, at the expense of an excited and -incautious public. Though there is no doubt that -they can be manufactured at prices much below -those at which the best machines are now held, and -still yield a handsome profit, a reduction in price -will not be probable so long as the demand so far -exceeds the supply. And now that it is found that -the machine is patented, we will not have the so -much wished for cheap velocipede, which would -assuredly have followed the competition that had -commenced, before it was known that one man only -held the exclusive right to their manufacture.</p> - -<p>But it must be remembered that as long as -materials and labor are so dear, the cost of manufacture -must necessarily be great. A manufacturer -requires draughtsmen to design his improvements, -pattern-makers to prepare models for the foundry, -blacksmiths to do the forging, wheelwrights for the -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_36">[Pg 36]</span> -wheels, machinists to turn and fit the work, foundry-men -to cast the pedals and braces, bolt-makers to -make the rivets and bolts, saddlers to prepare the -seats, and painters and varnishers to finish the -machine for the wareroom. The wear and tear in -the ordinary use of the velocipede is so great as to -require the very best of material in its construction. -There is no other kind of vehicle which receives -such severe usage. The weight of the rider and the -concussions of the road are not only borne by two -wheels, but the necessity of giving the fore wheel -a sidewise motion, render it indispensable to connect -the two by a frame, whose peculiar form and -character make it exceedingly liable to be deranged -and broken. This frame and its appendages must -be of wrought iron, steel, and brass, and all its work -must be of the best quality, or else the machine will -soon get out of order and become useless. The fittings -of the two wheels, their axles and their journals, -must also be of the best workmanship. The -same is true of the wheels themselves. No wood -that is not perfectly seasoned should be used for -them; and the hubs, spokes, and felloes must be -built with the utmost care and thoroughness; otherwise -they will soon become wabbling and unsteady, -so that speed and comfort will be out of the question.</p> - -<p>The price of a good machine will not fall much -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_37">[Pg 37]</span> -below a hundred dollars, until there is a general -decline in the price of all sorts of commodities.</p> - -<p>We advise the purchaser, by all means, to get a -<i>good machine</i>. It is now possible to buy cheap -velocipedes; and they will, no doubt, be manufactured -much cheaper, and yet be dear at any price. -The best are none too good, and are certainly worth -more than the difference.</p> - -<p>The hall velocipedes are, for the most part, slim -affairs; the frame made entirely of cast iron, without -metal gearings, brakes, or springs, and useful only -for floors. It is uncomfortable for the rider to -go over roughnesses without springs, and a well-built -machine is required to stand the jar of uneven -roads.</p> - -<p>It is no better policy to purchase a cheap velocipede, -than a cheap ready-made shoe or other article -of clothing.</p> - -<p>It is a prevalent but erroneous idea, that the -larger the bicycle, the greater the beauty and the -greater the speed. A machine with a front wheel -of a diameter of forty inches, is the largest that -can possibly be rendered practicable. Thirty-eight -inches is much better; and good riders prefer that -of but thirty-six or thirty-seven inches diameter for -the road.</p> - -<p>Before purchasing any machine, especially the -cheaper ones, examine them thoroughly; or if not a -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_38">[Pg 38]</span> -judge of good mechanical workmanship, ask a -friend to do it for you. Many defects are concealed -by the coatings of paint, particularly in the castings -and forgings; and a machine that is weak in any -point, is a dangerous one in fast riding. Be sure -that every bolt is properly secured by nuts that -cannot be shaken off; they should be riveted into the -bolt, as they will soon work loose if not so fastened. -The crank should never be keyed into the shaft, but -fastened on to a square head; or, what is better, -shrunk into the shaft.</p> - -<p>The ingenious way of supporting lanterns on the -machine, is a waste of time and expense; better -some kind of clamps to secure a light umbrella in -front, when the sun shines hot, or it rains; and -clamps for fastening a travelling bag or shawl in the -rear, particularly if one looks forward to country excursions -and summer trips.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_39">[Pg 39]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="ADVICE_TO_THE_BEGINNER">ADVICE TO THE BEGINNER.</h2> -</div> - -<p>To those who have never seen the two-wheeled -velocipede in use, it seems surprising that the rider -can keep his equilibrium. The principle of the thing -is the same as that of the movement of a boy’s hoop. -As long as the hoop revolves rapidly, its tendency to -any lateral movement is almost suspended, and the -greater the speed the less the difficulty in maintaining -the upright position.</p> - -<p>At first sight one supposes it to be a formidable -undertaking to mount and steer the bicycle. To -learn to manage it, however, requires no more skill, -courage, or patience, than to learn the art of skating; -and when the art is once acquired, it provides a -means of locomotion and a source of enjoyment as -much more available than skating, as the number of -days in the year is greater than the few bright mornings -when one can find a smooth, glassy, and well-frozen -skating ground.</p> - -<p>“Velocipedestrianism” is fully the equal of skating -and horseback riding, in its invigorating and -exhilarating effects. The velocipede bears young -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_40">[Pg 40]</span> -and old, light and heavy, easily and pleasantly and -with equal facility.</p> - -<p>In learning the velocipede, it is advisable to use a -machine of only moderate height, so that the soles -of the feet can readily touch the ground. At the -best school we know, where the pupils graduate experts, -six different sizes of machines are used. The -beginner is put upon one with a guiding wheel of -a diameter of only thirty-four inches, and is promoted -from one to another, according to progress.</p> - -<p>At first start, run beside the iron horse, leading it -by the hand, so as to familiarize yourself with its -movements, and to master well in your mind the idea -of the fore wheel, upon which all depends. This will -be an affair of but a few moments only. You will -very readily perceive that it will be impossible to -balance upon the machine, while it is standing -still. You will also see that, without practice, -it will be an impossibility to mount the iron horse, -and balance yourself upon the seat, while it is in -motion. Both these facts lead you to perceive that -motion is the first requisite. To get that, and at the -same time maintain equilibrium, you must first use -your feet on the floor or ground as a means of progression, -learning, as you move, to balance yourself -by the motion of the guide wheel, to the right or left, -whichever way you may lean.</p> - -<p>If out-of-doors, it is as well to practice on a slope; -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_41">[Pg 41]</span> -and after mounting, let the machine move forward -of its own accord, while you occupy yourself studying -the effect produced by the inclination which you -give to the balancing pole or handle. After you -have practiced enough to admit of your going some -little way without touching your feet, learn to go the -same distance with your legs raised, so as to bring -the centre of gravity higher from the base. When -you have overcome this difficulty and thoroughly understand -the action of the balancing pole, place one -foot on the pedal, and follow its movements, without -assisting them. Then try the other foot, and accustom -yourself to the movement of turning the wheels -with your feet. Next, put both feet upon the pedals, -and work them alternately with scrupulous regularity. -Speed is attained by simply accelerating -this movement. You will be surprised to find that -you can, all at once, ride your velocipede. After a -couple of hours of proper practice, you will be able -to accomplish a distance of thirty or forty yards, -without running the risk of an upset.</p> - -<p>In learning, be careful to keep the shoulders straight -and the head back. An erect position upon the bicycle -is as necessary for grace and ease, as upon the -horse. Avoid looking at the wheels, but accustom -yourself to look ahead.</p> - -<p>Confidence in your own ability is required, without -rashness. If you practice in a public hall, pay no -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_42">[Pg 42]</span> -attention to the laughter of spectators, and avoid -self-consciousness. If you feel that no one was ever -so clumsy before, the feeling itself will be sure to -increase your awkwardness. Remember that all -good riders have necessarily been through the same -experience. It is no disgrace to upset your vehicle. -Molière says: “<i>On peut être honnête homme et faire -mal des vers.</i>”</p> - -<p>Take things as easy as possible. The greatest -difficulty with beginners is to restrain the unnecessary -expenditure of muscular power. They ordinarily -perform ten times the amount of labor requisite. -They use all the force they can, in pressing upon the -pedals, and clasp the handle in front, as if hanging -on for dear life. Do not strain the muscles of the -arms. There is no necessity for it, or for any violent -muscular effort. A good rider can obtain the -greatest speed upon the road with half the exertion -used by the novice in learning the first movements.</p> - -<p>If the day after your first attempt you feel a little -lame and sore, remember that it is nothing more than -you would feel after riding horseback for the first -time, or after taking gentle but unaccustomed exercise -in a gymnasium.</p> - -<p>If you finish your first trial covered with dust and -perspiration, with a bumped head, jammed feet, -tired arms, and sore muscles, let your faith remain -triumphant, and your determination and expectation -to master the vehicle increased.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_43">[Pg 43]</span> -But with proper caution there is no danger either -of falls or hurt in using the velocipede in the way we -have advised. The pedal is constructed so that the -foot of the rider can at once leave it; and should the -machine incline to one side, it is only necessary to -remove the foot from the same side, and place it on -the ground. One must not let the handles go; they -seem to restore and maintain the balance of the -machine after the rider is off it. In alighting, both -feet should be raised from the pedal at the same instant, -which slackens the speed of the machine, and -placed upon the ground simultaneously.</p> - -<p>If you learn in a school or rink, you will find a -rough pine floor much the best for practice. Floors -that are sprinkled with sawdust, or sanded, are apt -to cause the machine to slip in turning.</p> - -<p>In your first practice, avoid trying experiments, or -doing too much; but watch your position in the -saddle, and perfect yourself in the balance movement. -After that is perfectly learned, try to ride -slowly, and practice with your feet upon the rest in -front. It will of course require much experience before -you are able to dash along the paved streets or -country roads, or to try the tricks and fancy movements -of an expert. Perseverance, however, makes -perfect; and if you persist, you will be able, in due -time, to ride side-saddle fashion, to pick up your hat -from the floor, to take off your coat while going at -full speed, and even to stand upon the saddle. -</p> - -<p> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_44">[Pg 44]</span> -Some learn to ride in three hours, some in three -days, and occasionally we hear of a timid and stupid -scholar, for whom three months will scarcely suffice. -It depends upon the machine, the method of going -to work, and the quickness and adaptability of the -rider. The knowledge often comes suddenly. We -have seen those who have tried to learn for days -without success, suddenly mount their veloces and -start around a hall, astonished at the ease with which -they maintained their balance, and looking as pleased -as if they had accomplished the object of their existence. -A few hours’ practice usually makes a student -quite the master of ceremonies.</p> - -<p>As soon as you have acquired the knowledge, you -will wonder how amateurs can be so awkward, and -be surprised that you found it so difficult.</p> - -<p>Should the velocipede upon which you learn be -too high to practice in the way we have indicated, -you should have some one hold the machine for the -first trial, the hands upon the back extremity of the -bar upon which you sit, so as to in no way impede -the action of the fore wheel.</p> - -<p>To those who wish to learn, we would especially -suggest the spring, fall, and winter months. It is -too warm to learn in summer, that being the season -to reap the reward of early exertion. Velocipede -riding is the easiest thing imaginable when one -knows how to ride properly.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_45">[Pg 45]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CONSTRUCTION_OF_THE_BICYCLE"> -CONSTRUCTION OF THE BICYCLE.</h2> -</div> - -<p>The accompanying engraving will convey to the -mind of the reader a correct idea of the French two-wheeled -velocipede. The majority of makers in this -country fashion their machine upon this pattern in -every essential respect. We append a full technical -description.</p> - -<div class="figcenter illowp90" id="i_045" style="max-width: 20em;"> - <img class="w100" src="images/i_045.jpg" alt="" /> -</div> - -<p> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_46">[Pg 46]</span> -A is the front wheel. This is the steering wheel, -and upon its axis the power is applied. B is the -hind wheel; C, the treadles or foot-pieces; D, the -treadle cranks; E, slots in cranks, by which to adjust -the foot-pieces and accommodate the length to the -legs of the rider; F, bifurcated jaw, the lower part -of which forms the bearing for the axle of the front -wheel. From the upper part of this jaw a rod or -pivot extends, to which is attached the steering arm -or handle F; G, the reach or perch, extending from -the jaw of the front wheel to the rear or hind wheel. -This reach is bifurcated, forming jaws for the hind -wheel. H, “rests” on the front part of the reach. -The rider puts one leg on the rest and works one of -the cranks with the other leg while riding “side-saddle,” -or a leg may be placed upon each rest when -the velocipede has acquired sufficient momentum, -and the rider does not wish to keep his feet upon -the treadles. I, the saddle or seat, which is adjustable -on the seat-spring L, by the thumb-screw K. -The seat-spring L, is attached at M to the reach G, -which, at the other end, is fastened to the spring-struts -N, that rise from the reach G; O, the brake-lever, -on the fulcrum P; Q, the “shoe” of the brake -that acts against the periphery of the hind wheel. -The brake is operated by means of the cord S, one -end of which is attached to the steering handle F, -and the other end to the reach at 3. A cord passes -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_47">[Pg 47]</span> -from the steering handle under the pulley or roller 4, -thence over the pulley 5, on the brake-lever O, and -from there to the point 3, where it is attached to the -reach G. The brake is operated by giving a slight -turning motion to the handle F, thus winding a -small sheave upon the axis of the handle, and bringing -the shoe Q, of the brake-lever O, in contact with -the surface of the wheel B.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_48">[Pg 48]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="VARIETIES_OF_THE_BICYCLE">VARIETIES OF THE BICYCLE.</h2> -</div> - -<p>The best two-wheeled velocipedes manufactured in -this country, are those of Messrs. Pickering & Davis, -Wood Brothers, Mercer & Monod, and Calvin -Witty, New York City; and William P. Sargent -& Co., and Kimball Brothers, Boston, Mass.</p> - -<div class="figcenter illowp100" id="i_048" style="max-width: 20em;"> - <img class="w100" src="images/i_048.jpg" alt="" /> -</div> - -<h3 id="WOOD_BROTHERS_VELOCIPEDE">WOOD BROTHERS’ VELOCIPEDE.</h3> - -<p>The Wood Brothers, of 596 Broadway, New -York, decided at the commencement of the <i>furore</i> -in this country, to make the manufacture of velocipedes -an important branch of their business. They -made thorough and personal investigation of the -many styles used abroad, and selected the patents of -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_49">[Pg 49]</span> -Messrs. Michaux & Co., as being the one most in -favor with experts there.</p> - -<p>The Wood Brothers’ velocipede, though very similar -to the French machine, is made of better material, -with steel tires and axles, and with gun-metal -gearings upon the rear wheel. This machine combines -in a great degree lightness and durability. It -weighs from fifty to fifty-eight pounds, and if required, -can easily be led, lifted, or even carried by -the rider. The seat is fixed more directly over the -stirrups than in some machines, and at such a height -above the wheels as to avoid wear and tear of the -clothing from contact with mud and dirt, and the -driving wheel in turning. The stirrups are attached -in such a manner to the crank, that they can be adjusted -near the hub or axle, giving speed on level -roads; or they can be placed at the end of the -crank, giving power and ease for rough roads and -ascending grades. Two kinds of stirrups are used; -the “spool pattern,” entirely round, and covered with -leather, making it easy for the beginner to keep his -foot in place; and the French swing stirrup, which is -for proficient riders and general use. This latter -style has a very long bearing, relieving the strain on -the ankle joint, and making it easy to ride a distance -without fatigue.</p> - -<p>This bicycle has a brake, rests for the feet in front, -and a handsomely finished saddle, supported by steel -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_50">[Pg 50]</span> -springs. It will ascend a grade of one foot in -twenty. The price is $135.</p> - -<p>The Wood Brothers have in their possession the -first velocipede ever brought into this country. -When first exhibited on the sidewalk in front of their -warerooms, it attracted such attention that the -police requested them to remove it. They have just -completed for a New York gentleman, at a price of -$300, one of the most completely finished velocipedes -yet manufactured in America.</p> - -<h3 id="THE_MONOD_VELOCIPEDE">THE MONOD VELOCIPEDE.</h3> - -<p>Messrs. Mercer & Monod, of 54 William Street, -New York, manufacture their velocipedes after a -model of their own, which has its advantages, and -embraces many of the best points of the French -machine.</p> - -<p>The steering post is inclined backward, which -brings the handle within easy reach of the body, and -the whole machine under perfect control; and gives -it a particularly rakish and natty appearance upon -the road. The saddle can be adjusted backward or -forward, according to the length of limb of the rider.</p> - -<p>Messrs. Mercer & Monod use the triangular beveled -treadle and an improved brake. The defect of -this machine is its weight, which is about seventy -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_51">[Pg 51]</span> -pounds. Some riders, however, prefer a heavier -machine than others, and recommend the Monod -velocipede on this account.</p> - -<p>A good rider on this machine can obtain a speed -of ten or twelve miles an hour. It varies in price -from $110 to $150, according to finish.</p> - -<p>These gentlemen have lately manufactured some -very complete machines for country use, with shawl -rack, mud dasher, etc.</p> - -<h3 id="WITTYS_VELOCIPEDE">WITTY’S VELOCIPEDE.</h3> - -<p>Calvin Witty, of 638 Broadway, New York, models -his velocipedes almost entirely after those of -Messrs. Michaux & Co. When he commenced their -manufacture, he tried by various experiments to improve -upon the original patent. Most of his attempts -proved unsuccessful. Among other proposed improvements, -he endeavored to apply the brake to the -front wheel, but found that it would stop the machine -on the instant, and throw the rider headlong; and -that such a brake, though suitable for a steam-engine, -could not be rendered practicable upon a velocipede.</p> - -<p>These machines are made of wrought iron, with -brakes, springs, improved saddle, and gun-metal -bearings. As Mr. Witty has the exclusive right of -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_52">[Pg 52]</span> -M. Lallement’s patent upon the two-wheeled velocipede, -he can afford to manufacture at a somewhat -cheaper rate than those who are obliged to pay a -royalty. His bicycles range in price from $90 to $130.</p> - -<p>Mr. Witty’s first machines were not so good as -some of other manufacturers, but he has lately improved -upon them. They are a little heavier than -those of Messrs. Sargent & Co., Pickering & Davis, -and Wood Brothers, but equal to any in durability -and finish.</p> - -<p>Mr. Witty is at present constructing a velocipede -which he anticipates will run a mile in one minute -and twenty seconds, or faster than any trotting-horse -can ever be expected to go; the driving wheel is to -be so constructed that it will revolve three times -while the treadles are once making their circuit.</p> - -<h3 id="PICKERINGS_AMERICAN_VELOCIPEDE">PICKERING’S AMERICAN VELOCIPEDE.</h3> - -<p>As will be seen from the accompanying engraving, -“Pickering’s American Velocipede,” manufactured -by Messrs. Pickering & Davis, 144 Greene Street, -New York, differs very materially from the French -model, so generally used by other manufacturers. It -is claimed that it is more simple and durable, lighter -and stronger.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_53">[Pg 53]</span> -</p> - -<div class="figcenter illowp90" id="i_053" style="max-width: 20em;"> - <img class="w100" src="images/i_053.jpg" alt="" /> -</div> - -<p>The reach or frame of this velocipede is made of -hydraulic tubing. The gun-metal bearings are so -attached that, when worn, they may be replaced by -others, which are interchangeable like the parts of -sewing-machines and fire-arms. The axle is so constructed -as to constitute, in itself, an oil box. It is -made tubular, and closed at either end with a screw, -on the removal of which it is filled with lard oil. -Cotton lamp-wick is placed loosely in the tubular -axle and the oil is by this means fed to the bearing, -as fast as required, through the small holes made for -the purpose in the centre of the axle. The saddle -is supported on a spiral spring, giving an elastic seat; -it is brought well back, so that the rider maintains -an erect position, and is adjustable to suit the length -of limb of the rider. The tiller or steering handle -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_54">[Pg 54]</span> -is constructed with a spring, so that the hands are -relieved from the jolting that they would otherwise -receive while running over rough ground. The stirrups -or crank pedals, are three-sided, with circular -flanges at each end, fitted to turn on the crank pins, -so that the pressure of the foot will always bring one -of the three sides into proper position. They are so -shaped as to allow of the use of the fore part of the -foot, bringing the ankle joint into play, relieving the -knee, and rendering propulsion easier than when -the shank of the foot alone is used. The connecting -apparatus differs from that of the French vehicle in -that the saddle bar serves only as a seat and brake, -and is not attached to the rear wheel. By a simple -pressure forward against the tiller, and a backward -pressure against the tail of the saddle, the saddle -spring is compressed, and the brake attached to it -brought firmly down against the wheel.</p> - -<p>Messrs. Pickering & Davis have a large manufactory, -and are the constant recipients of orders -from all parts of the country. Mr. Pickering has -always been a practical machinist, and personally -superintends the structure of each machine turned -out.</p> - -<p>A rider upon the Pickering velocipede can average -ten or twelve miles an hour. On good roads they -have been ridden, for short distances, at the rate of -eighteen miles an hour. It is claimed that they will -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_55">[Pg 55]</span> -easily ascend a grade of from one foot in twenty to -one in fifteen.</p> - -<p>The price varies from $110 to $155. A very complete, -finely finished one, can be bought for $150. -This is an expensive machine; but many <i>connoisseurs</i> -think its advantages over other bicycles fully -merit the small difference in price. Many experts -use it altogether for fancy riding, and many who -have tried all kinds upon the road, think this much -to be preferred.</p> - -<h3 id="SARGENT_VELOCIPEDE">SARGENT VELOCIPEDE.</h3> - -<p>Wm. P. Sargent & Co., of 155 Tremont Street, -Boston, have many excellent facilities, in connection -with their extensive works for the construction of -pleasure carriages, for the manufacture of velocipedes. -They foresaw the <i>furore</i> that would arise in -this country before its commencement, and made -early preparations to engage largely in the manufacture -of the Parisian novelty.</p> - -<p>Their machines are made upon the French plan, -with all the American improvements, in form, material, -and thoroughness of construction. They are -very similar to those made by the Wood Brothers, -but have important merits of their own. The hind -wheel turns on the axle bar, preventing the friction -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_56">[Pg 56]</span> -upon the bearing, as in other machines in which the -axle turns with the wheel. The neck of the machine -is wrought in one piece, and the head of the swivel -in the neck is of wrought iron, square in shape. -The fork of the steering bar is of wrought iron also, -instead of the cast brass usually used. This makes -a delicate part of the machine very durable, for it is -a rule in mechanics that one metal will act upon -itself with less friction than upon another kind of -metal. The best workmen are employed and the -best material used. The tires and axles are of the -finest steel, and the bearings of the finest gun-metal. -The saddle is adjustable and can be readily moved -backward or forward.</p> - -<p>Messrs. Sargent & Co. use both the three-sided -beveled and the swing treadle, either of which always -present a surface to the foot, so that after mounting -or removing the foot temporarily, no time is lost in -replacing it.</p> - -<p>They have made every effort to construct a light, -noiseless, steady-running, completely-finished, and -perfect machine. Their price is from $110 to $150.</p> - -<p>Messrs. Sargent & Co. also manufacture a cheaper -machine, without springs, much like those manufactured -by Mr. Brownell of New Bedford. This -machine is sold for $55, and is used with satisfaction -in halls and rinks.</p> - -<p>Mr. Sargent has on hand in his warerooms a large -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_57">[Pg 57]</span> -assortment of machines of other manufacturers, including -those of Wood Brothers, Mercer & Monod, -and Pickering & Davis.</p> - -<h3 id="KIMBALLS_VELOCIPEDE">KIMBALL’S VELOCIPEDE.</h3> - -<p>Messrs. Kimball Brothers & Co., of 110, 112, and -114 Sudbury Street, Boston, secured the first license -granted in this country under the Lallement patent, -giving them the exclusive right to manufacture in -Maine, and the liberty of selling throughout the -United States. They have long enjoyed a high reputation -for elegant sleighs and carriages, and at their -commencement of the manufacture of velocipedes, -determined to maintain their reputation in this new -and important branch of their business. Their velocipedes -are also patterned from those of Messrs. -Michaux & Co., with such improvements as are in -use with the best manufacturers.</p> - -<p>The frames of these machines are of wrought iron -and steel, with composition and gun-metal bearings, -steel levers, and axles, and superior saddles. Even -into the lowest priced machines, they put the best -stock in every part. Messrs. Kimball Brothers’ -velocipedes vary in price from $75 to $175, according -to style and finish. The most expensive are furnished -with mud fenders, lamps, and silver-plated -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_58">[Pg 58]</span> -brakes. A very fine one can be obtained for $135. -Their cheaper bicycles are, without doubt, as good -as any in the market. They are light, durable, built -of wrought iron, and <i>furnished with springs</i>.</p> - -<hr class="r65" /> - -<p>The New England manufacturers of two-wheeled -velocipedes, next in prominence to Messrs. Sargent -& Kimball, are William H. Brownell & Co., of New -Bedford, George E. Elliott, of Providence, and -Messrs. Dalzell & Sons, of South Egremont.</p> - -<p>William H. Brownell & Co., of New Bedford, -manufacture only the cheaper kind of velocipedes. -The frame or reach, which curves over the rear -wheel, is built of wrought iron. The machine is -without springs or metal gearings. This is used -almost exclusively in the New England schools and -rinks; and for the use of the beginner, or on smooth -floors, gives merited satisfaction. It is not as suitable -for the road, or as easy for the rider, as the more -expensive machines, which are furnished with -springs, brakes, and rests for the feet. But for those -who wish to have a bicycle, with as small an expenditure -as possible, this machine will answer as well -as any that we know. It is firm and durable, moderately -light, and does not get easily out of repair.</p> - -<p>Messrs. Brownell & Co. have sold $40,000 worth -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_59">[Pg 59]</span> -of machines in the last three months, and the demand -is far greater than the supply. They are as -heavily engaged in the business as any manufacturers -in the country. The price varies from $70 to -$90. A good machine of Mr. Brownell’s make can -be obtained for $75.</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>George C. Elliott, of Providence, has purchased a -license under the Lallement patent, for the exclusive -manufacture of the two-wheeled velocipede in Rhode -Island. He combines the French machine with the -usual American improvements. The prices are the -same as are demanded for other good machines.</p> - -<p>Those who have used Mr. Elliott’s bicycles claim -that they are the equal of any manufactured.</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>Messrs. Dalzell & Sons, of South Egremont, -Massachusetts, manufacture a velocipede which has -many of the merits of that of the Wood Brothers. -Their velocipede works are at Hudson, N. Y., and -there is a steadily increasing demand for their -machines. The prices vary from $125 to $150.</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>G. F. Perkins & Co., of Haydenville, Mass., advertise -to furnish a velocipede with steel springs for -$40. We do not know that their machine has -been fairly tested. We have never seen it in use, -and are unable to speak of its merits.</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_60">[Pg 60]</span> -Among the latest improved machines, is one manufactured -by Messrs. Tomlinson, Demarest, & Co., -No. 620 Broadway, New York. It is called the -“Improved American Velocipede,” and differs from -styles best known to the public in important respects. -It is the recipient of many encomiums from -those who have learned to ride it.</p> - -<p>The iron arms, between which the front wheel is -held, are inclined back at an angle of forty-five -degrees from the perpendicular, which inclination -brings the seat in such a relative position to the fore wheel, -that a man of medium height can, with his -feet, reach the treadles of one of these velocipedes, -the front wheel of which is forty-five inches in diameter, -with as much ease as he can those of the ordinary -velocipede, the fore wheel of which is of a -diameter seven or eight inches smaller. This peculiarity -gives likewise great facility in describing -sharp curves and circles of small diameter, the body -being inclined in the direction in which the rider -wishes to propel himself, and in the direction in -which the driving wheel is inclined. Those who -have become expert in the use of this new machine, -claim that the movement of the body in propelling -and guiding it, is more nearly analogous to that of -skating, than is employed in controlling the ordinary -bicycle. Indeed, they claim that it can be guided by -the mere inclination of the body without perceptibly -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_61">[Pg 61]</span> -varying the pressure upon the handles to the one -side or the other.</p> - -<p>The peculiar rakish arrangement of the standard, -prevents the usual jar to the guiding arms in going -over rough ground and pavements, and allows the -wheel to turn without soiling the pantaloons. It is -claimed that this machine can be driven at great -speed, and up steep grades.</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>Messrs. Pearsall Brothers, of New York, have -patented a bicycle which is so constructed that the -rear wheel is used as a guiding wheel. This -machine will turn a quick corner, and can be ridden -rapidly. Its price is $125.</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>Stephen W. Smith, of 90 William Street, New -York, manufactures a velocipede for boys, with a -guiding wheel twenty inches in diameter, for $25. -The saddle of this machine is so wide that but -little balancing power is requisite, and any child can -easily learn to ride it.</p> - -<h3 id="THE_DEXTER_BICYCLE">THE DEXTER BICYCLE.</h3> - -<p>The Dexter bicycle only differs from other two-wheeled -machines in one respect. This, however, is -quite important. By a simple and effective device, -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_62">[Pg 62]</span> -it admits of an instantaneous connection and -disconnection of the crank with the axle of the -driving wheel, keeping the treadles stationary or in -motion, at the will of the rider, while the wheel continues -to revolve. Ordinarily, in obtaining a high -rate of speed on a velocipede, the rapidity of the -revolution of the crank becomes too great to be followed -by the movement of the feet, except at the -expenditure of too much exertion. This difficulty is -wholly obviated by Mr. Dexter. A continuous and -uniform rate of speed may be kept up with his -machine without fatiguing the rider.</p> - -<h3 id="THE_CHICAGO_VELOCIPEDE">THE CHICAGO VELOCIPEDE.</h3> - -<p>This velocipede is manufactured by Messrs. -Loring & Keene, of Chicago, Illinois, and has become -very popular in that city and throughout the -West. It is a light machine, somewhat similar to -that of Pickering & Davis. The saddle is upon a -spiral spring, is not connected with the rear wheel, -and serves as a seat and brake. The manufacturers -claim that it will ascend a grade of one foot in -eighteen, and that it can be driven at great speed. -Its price is $130.</p> - -<p> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_63">[Pg 63]</span> -D. W. Gosling, of Cincinnati, Ohio, has been engaged -for some months in the manufacture of a -velocipede upon the Franco-American plan. He -claims that his bicycle is equal to any other, both in -durability and fine workmanship.</p> - -<p>There is another manufactory in Cincinnati, -which turns out sixteen hundred velocipedes per week, -that are sold at $35 each. These machines are of -the poorest possible workmanship and material.</p> - -<p>There are large numbers of bicycles in the market -which are both unsafe and dangerous, and which the -makers push into unsuspecting hands by offering -them at much reduced rates. Many portions of -these which should be of wrought iron, are made of -cast iron, of course attractively painted. Nothing -should be cast about the metal works of a velocipede -except the brasses.</p> - -<p>A bad machine carefully kept, may, perhaps, last -longer than a good machine very badly managed. -It should be the ambition of a good rider, however, -to have a good machine, kept in good order. There -is danger to the velocipedist in pushing ahead with -speed, when the slightest collision, or the giving -way of some minute portion of the machine, may -smash the whole affair.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_64">[Pg 64]</span></p> - -<div class="figcenter illowp90" id="i_064" style="max-width: 20em;"> - <img class="w100" src="images/i_064.jpg" alt="" /> -</div> - -</div> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="FOUR-WHEELED_VELOCIPEDES"> -FOUR-WHEELED VELOCIPEDES.</h2> - -<h3 id="BRADFORDS_VELOCIPEDE">BRADFORD’S VELOCIPEDE.</h3> - -<p>If any of our readers desire the luxury of a ride -on a velocipede without the necessity of taking lessons, -or the danger of getting a fall, they will find -“Bradford’s Four-Wheeled Velocipede” ready and -able to afford them the pleasure.</p> - -<p>The inventor of this vehicle, Mr. C. K. Bradford, -has devoted the greater part of the last five years to -experiments upon the velocipede, and took out his -first patent three years and a half ago. The -machine, as now constructed and improved, obtained -its American patent October 13th, 1868. It -has since been patented in England, France, and -Belgium. It is made of the best material, and -finished like a gentleman’s trotting wagon. It -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_65">[Pg 65]</span> -weighs but sixty-five pounds, and combines in a -high degree both lightness and strength. Any man, -woman or child, can learn to guide it easily with -but a few moments practice.</p> - -<p>The inventor claims that it is able to maintain a -speed of a mile in three minutes, and that the extraordinary -time of a half mile in one minute and -forty-five seconds, has been made upon a country -road. It can be driven by almost any man, at the -rate of a mile in four minutes, on almost any road, -without greater exertion than is ordinarily used in -walking. This velocipede, unlike all others, is seen -to best advantage on the street. In Mr. Bradford’s -tasteful little curricle, the rider can sit at ease as -carelessly as in a carriage, giving himself up wholly -to the exhilaration of the rapid movement, and the -pleasurable exercise of the muscles, which is just -enough to make the machine skim over the ground, -and give an enjoyable sense of power. The -increase of friction, which would naturally result -from the additional number of wheels, is prevented -by an application of anti-friction rollers, which reduce -the labor of propelling the machine to a minimum, -a requisite of the highest importance to a -person seeking either recreation or utility.</p> - -<p>This velocipede has an adjustable seat, which may -be placed nearer or further from the pedal crank, to -suit the rider’s length of limb. The seat is furnished -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_66">[Pg 66]</span> -with a high, strong back, which, besides adding -materially to the rider’s comfort, serves him as a -<i>point d’appui</i>, a firm base from which he can exert -a powerful force in propelling.</p> - -<p>The steering device is simple and complete, and -is the same principle upon which one guides the -horse. It is guided by the hands, and the large -rear wheels are operated upon by means of a wheel -and cord arrangement, conveniently placed beside -the seat. It is claimed that the machine can be -steered almost to a hair’s breadth. It is used by -many city firms for the purpose of carrying messages -and parcels, and can be seen upon Broadway -in the thickest part of the travel. It does not hesitate -at curb-stones, and will run over most roads as -easily as any light wagon. It can be ridden up -almost any hill without a fatiguing expenditure of -force. It offers excellent advantages for carrying -refreshments and various articles of light baggage, -necessary in a flying trip or excursion.</p> - -<p>Though this machine requires more room for its -accommodation than the bicycle, and cannot be -stored against any wall; and though it does not give -the peculiar and fascinating kind of exhilaration -which balancing upon the bicycle affords, it will be -seen to have many advantages over the two-wheeled -vehicle.</p> - -<p>This velocipede is especially adapted to ladies, and -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_67">[Pg 67]</span> -allows the rider to sit as becomingly and gracefully -as she would in her carriage or her parlor chair. -The proprietors have a very ingenious device which -can be attached to the machine for ladies, which -completely conceals all points of motion.</p> - -<p>The Bradford Brothers have a large manufactory -in Newark, N. J. Mr. J. W. Thorp is their agent, -and is rapidly selling State and county rights. This -velocipede is sold at $150.</p> - -<p>The Messrs. Bradford also manufacture a smaller -size for boys, complete in every particular, for $75.</p> - -<h3 id="CALLAHANS_VELOCIPEDE">CALLAHAN’S VELOCIPEDE.</h3> - -<p>This velocipede was patented January 5th, 1869, -and is on exhibition at 17 State Street, Boston. It -has been thoroughly tested and is pronounced a -complete success. It will be seen that it is very -different from Bradford’s machine. The front wheels -are used as guiding wheels, the rear as the driving -ones. It is propelled by both hands and feet, acting -together or separately. The propelling power is -almost unlimited, and is furnished by cranks in the -hind axles, with lever attachments. It has three -different steering arrangements, either of which can -be applied, according to the taste of the purchaser. -</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_68">[Pg 68]</span> -In all these, the forward wheel and axle are turned -with a lever arrangement, operated upon by the hand.</p> - -<div class="figcenter illowp100" id="i_068" style="max-width: 20em;"> - <img class="w100" src="images/i_068.jpg" alt="" /> -</div> - -<p>The machine develops both chest and limbs, and -can be readily used by ladies and children. A little -girl of six years has ridden it for an hour without -fatigue. It is so constructed, that scruples of delicacy -need prevent no lady from driving it. It can -be driven either backwards or forwards, will run upon -the road, at the rate of fifteen miles an hour, and will -ascend any ordinary hill with ease. It is claimed, -that it is the only machine made that can be checked -in going down hill, or that can be stopped instantly.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_69">[Pg 69]</span> -The machine varies in size and weight. That -most in favor, has a wheel of three feet and a half in -diameter, and a weight of about one hundred pounds. -It is constructed of the best material, and is neat and -nobby in appearance. Its price is $125.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_70">[Pg 70]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="THE_TRICYCLE">THE TRICYCLE.</h2> -</div> - -<p>The generic tricycle, or three-wheeled velocipede, -as used abroad, is not likely to meet with general -favor in this country.</p> - -<p>In its steering arrangements and mode of propulsion, -its construction is similar to that of the bicycle. -The rear wheels are large and light; the fore wheel -is smaller, and serves to guide the machine, being -acted upon by means of the steering bar or handle, -which causes it to bend in the direction indicated by -the rider. The pedals are attached to the front wheel, -and are shaped like slippers, which facilitates the -movement of the legs, and at the same time admits -of the feet being disengaged simultaneously. The -movement required to propel this machine is a -natural one, does not produce unusual fatigue, and -is analogous to that of walking.</p> - -<p>The larger three-wheeled velocipedes have a lever -which follows the line of the eccentrics attached to -the pedals, and fits on to the axles. By assisting the -movement of this lever, the speed of the vehicle is -considerably increased, and a simple pressure against -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_71">[Pg 71]</span> -it checks the rotary motion of the wheel, and stops -the progress of the machine. This lever is, in fact, -both a means of impulsion and a brake. As this -vehicle is chiefly patronized by the fair sex, the seat -is more commodious than that of the bicycle; having -sides and back of wicker, and a horse-hair cushion.</p> - -<p>The tricycle is simply a hack, while the bicycle is -a blooded horse that fully demonstrates the “poetry -of motion.” The tricycle is easier to guide, and -safer to ride than the two-wheeled machine; there is -however more friction, and its speed is much less -rapid. It has, thus far, been found impossible to -construct a three-wheeler with the pedal method of -propulsion, that could compete with the bicycle in -speed or pleasure of driving. Large wheels are -necessary for speed. If a guiding wheel be applied to -a tricycle of this kind large enough to run rapidly -on the road, and to counterbalance the size of the -other wheels, it would be unsteady of motion; the -rider would be apt to be thrown headlong at any jar, -and the whole machine would be rendered unsafe.</p> - -<p>Many of the larger manufacturers have built the -tricycle to some extent. Most of them have discontinued -their make, finding it unprofitable, and -that the machine gave but little satisfaction.</p> - -<p>The Bradford Brothers of New York City obtained -a patent, and entered largely into the business, at -considerable expense. They, however, soon stopped -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_72">[Pg 72]</span> -the manufacture, and gave exclusive attention to -their four-wheeled machines. The three-wheeled -velocipedes of Messrs. Kimball Brothers, Boston, -seem to be as popular as any in the market; but the -sale is mostly local, and but few of them are manufactured.</p> - -<p>Various inventors have endeavored to obtain power, -by additions to the gearings, in the shape of spring -wheels and levers, but with little success. Others -have applied the principle of the crank to be turned -by the hand, using the hand for steering purposes.</p> - -<p>Mr. Wm. H. Hall, of Boston, Mass., has invented -a tricycle, which is impelled by a crank, acting upon -a small wheel, connected to another by an endless -pulley. Every revolution of the crank turns the -wheels of the machine once. This machine has not -yet been fairly tested.</p> - -<p>A mechanic in Indiana also claims to have invented -a machine very similar in construction to this of -Mr. Hall’s.</p> - -<p>Messrs. Forbes & Sears of New Bedford, Mass., -have invented a machine with two hind wheels -running only about five inches apart. It is claimed -that the hind wheels are so near together as to run -practically as one wheel; and yet the rider can stop -the vehicle and maintain his equilibrium.</p> - -<p>Messrs. Topliff & Ely of Eleria, Ohio, patented -February 23d, 1869, a tricycle, in which, by a simple -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_73">[Pg 73]</span> -movement of a lever, the rear wheels can be run into -one, and the vehicle instantaneously changed into a -bicycle.</p> - -<p>A gentleman of Poughkeepsie, N. Y., has invented -a machine, in which both the hind wheels are drivers -instead of the forward one. They are fastened on -independent axles meeting in the centre, connected -by a novel arrangement of gearing, so that either -wheel can stand as a pivotal point, and the other be -driven round it very swiftly. The inventor states -that it will turn in less space than any other velocipede.</p> - -<p>Mr. John Tremper, of Wilmington, Del., has designed -and patented a tricycle in which the front -wheel is the driver as usual; but placed so closely to -the axle of the hind wheels, as to give almost as -complete command over the motions of the machine, -in turning corners, as the two-wheeled velocipede.</p> - -<p>“The Bennet Velocipede” is characterized by a -driving wheel four feet in diameter, and two guiding -wheels behind, each about a foot in diameter.</p> - -<p>“Samuels’ Velocipede” has also a large driving -wheel, with small guiding wheels behind. This -machine is propelled by hand cranks, connected with -corresponding cranks in the driving wheel shaft. The -feet are used for steering. The inventor claims that -this machine will run twenty-five miles an hour on a -level road.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_74">[Pg 74]</span> -A New Yorker has invented a machine for ladies, -which he has placed on exhibition at Pearsall Riding -School. The pedals are applied to the rear wheels, -and the small wheel in front is guided by a rod, -passing back to the hand of the lady occupying the -seat.</p> - -<p>One or two of the novel tricycles, modeled upon -new principles, have proved decided successes.</p> - -<p>A gentleman of Ypsilanti, Mich., has invented one -that he claims to have ridden from that place to -Detroit, a distance of twenty-eight miles, in two -hours and forty-eight minutes; and to have made a -mile in Ypsilanti in two minutes and thirty seconds. -The wheels of this machine are forty-two inches in -diameter, and are propelled by means of a double -hand crank, no treadles being used. On each side -of the hub of the forward wheel, is a grooved pulley; -and attached to the straight portion of the crank are -two more pulleys, the four being connected by belts. -At each revolution of the pulleys, the vehicle is propelled -a distance of sixteen and a half feet; and -when an ordinary rate of speed is attained, it runs -quite easily. Its weight is forty-nine pounds, and -the inventor claims that it will sustain two hundred -pounds without danger of collapsing. It can be run -on ordinary carriage roads, with comparative ease.</p> - -<p>Samuel Marden of Newton Corner, Mass., has lately -commenced the manufacture of a three-wheeled -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_75">[Pg 75]</span> -velocipede for which he obtained a patent in February, -1868. He calls his machine “a mechanical horse;” -it is propelled <i>by the weight of the rider</i>, and by -friction. It has neither treadles, cranks, or guiding -arms. The rider rises in his stirrups as on a trotting -horse. The saddle is so arranged that the pressure -upon it revolves a gearing wheel, which acts upon a -small one connected with the axle of the rear wheel; -these wheels are thus made to turn very rapidly. It -will be seen that this velocipede is constructed upon -an entirely new principle. It is claimed that it can -be driven upon the road, at the rate of from ten to -fifteen miles an hour. This machine can be used by -ladies, with a side-saddle arrangement. Its price is -$125. Mr. Marden’s velocipede has been tested, and -we think he has a fortune in his invention. He has -more orders than he can fill, and is prepared to sell -State, county, and town rights.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_76">[Pg 76]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="HEMMINGS_UNICYCLE"> -HEMMING’S UNICYCLE, OR “FLYING -YANKEE VELOCIPEDE.”</h2> -</div> - -<p>The single-wheeled velocipede has at length received -a palpable body, and “a local habitation and -a name.”</p> - -<div class="figcenter illowp60" id="i_077" style="max-width: 20em;"> - <img class="w100" src="images/i_077.jpg" alt="" /> -</div> - -<p>Richard C. Hemming of New Haven, Conn., invented -the machine herewith represented, two years -ago; but has only recently brought it into the market -and applied it to practical purposes. The main -wheel has a double rim, or has two concentric rims, -the inner face of the inner one having a projecting -lip for keeping the friction rollers and the friction -driver in place; each of these being correspondingly -grooved on their peripheries. The frame on which -the rider sits, sustains these friction wheels in double -parallel arms, on the front one of which is mounted -a double pulley, with belts passing to small pulleys -on the axis of the driving wheel. This double wheel -is driven, as seen, by cranks turned by the hands. -The friction of the lower wheel on the surface of -the inner rim of the main wheel, is the immediate -means of propulsion. A small binding wheel, seen -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_77">[Pg 77]</span> -between the rider’s legs, serves to keep the bands or -belts tight. The steering is effected either by inclining -the body to one side or the other, or by the -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_78">[Pg 78]</span> -foot impinging on the ground, the stirrups being -hung low for this purpose. By throwing the weight -on these stirrups, the binding wheel may be brought -more powerfully down on the belts. Over the rider’s -head is an awning, and there is also a shield in front -of his body to keep the clothes from being soiled by -mud and wet. When going forward, the driving -wheel is kept slightly forward of the centre of gravity -by the position of the rider. By this means the -power exerted is comparatively small. Every turn -of the crank is equivalent to a rotation of the great -wheel.</p> - -<p>Mr. Hemming says that this machine can be -manufactured for fifty dollars, of a weight of only -thirty pounds; that it will ascend steep grades, and -that it can be driven on the roads with but little -exertion, at the rate of twenty or even twenty-five -miles an hour. This wheel is of a diameter of from -six to eight feet.</p> - -<p>Mr. Hemming’s boy of thirteen has one five feet -in diameter, the first manufactured, crude in construction, -and heavier than necessary, which he propels -at the rate of a mile in three minutes.</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>A mechanic of Dubuque, Iowa, has invented a -one-wheeled machine, which he calls a velocycle or -velocyde. This velocipede is not ridden upon, but -transports its rider into the position of “walkist.” It -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_79">[Pg 79]</span> -is a large wheel or double wheel, made a unit by a -light rim of five feet one inch in diameter. The -operator steps upon the rim and commences to ascend -an endless ladder. It being movable, of course he -does not ascend but sets the wheel in motion. The -inventor claims that the effort is not greater than the -force of muscle required in ordinary locomotion, and -that by his arrangement of pulleys, each step gives -a complete revolution of the wheel and is equivalent -to a stride of eighteen feet. He claims that it will -ascend steep grades, will run at the rate of twenty -miles an hour, will not weigh over twenty pounds, -and that it can be manufactured for $40.</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>The single wheeled velocipede was perhaps predicted -in Ezekiel i. 15-21. A gentleman in Pittsburg, -Pa., claims to have invented one, which can -be propelled by the combined force of five men, -who occupy comfortable seats in the automatic -horse. This wheel is ten feet in diameter, and the -inventor thinks it can be driven at the rate of twenty -miles an hour.</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>A New York mechanic has devised a monocycle -or single machine, which consists of a wheel eight -feet in diameter, with a tire six inches wide, or two -narrow tires on its outer edges, with two sets of -spokes connecting with a double centre, which fills -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_80">[Pg 80]</span> -the place of a hub, the two sides of which are two -feet and a half apart. The operator is in the middle, -and propels the wheel by an apparatus, in which -both his weight and his muscles are brought into play.</p> - -<div class="figcenter illowp68" id="i_080" style="max-width: 20em;"> - <img class="w100" src="images/i_080.jpg" alt="" /> -</div> - -<p>We present an engraving of an English one-wheeled -velocipede. The feet are placed on short -stilts, connected with the cranks, one on either side -of the rim, while the rider sits upon a steel spring -saddle over the whole wheel. The inventor modestly -limits the diameter of the wheel to twelve feet, -and the number of revolutions to fifty per minute. -Twenty-five miles per hour is the speed expected to -be reached. The riders of this machine, without the -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_81">[Pg 81]</span> -ability to overcome the laws of gravity, would be -very likely to get broken bones and noses. It is -not likely to come into general use.</p> - -<hr class="r65" /> - -<p>Captain Du Boisson, a Frenchman and captain -of Prince Napoleon’s yacht, “Jerome Napoleon,” has -invented a velocipede which runs upon water with -great facility. It is composed of two parallel tubes -of cast iron, cigar-shaped, connected by iron cross-pieces. -In the centre is a propelling wheel, covered -by a house or drum, on the top of which the person -using the vessel sits comfortably in a sort of saddle, -with stirrups. By means of these stirrups and a -hand crank upon each side, he gives the wheel its -motion, precisely as it is given to a velocipede on -shore. The novel craft is easily propelled at the rate -of six miles an hour.</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>A gentleman of Poughkeepsie, N. Y., has invented -and uses an Ice Velocipede, which he propels with -astonishing rapidity. The frame of this velocipede -is built like those which are commonly used in this -city. It has but one wheel, steered with a bar as in -the land machine, but armed with sharp points to -prevent its slipping. Instead of the wheel behind -are two sharp runners, like those attached to the ice -boats.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_82">[Pg 82]</span></p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<div class="figcenter illowp90" id="i_082" style="max-width: 20em;"> - <img class="w100" src="images/i_082.jpg" alt="" /> -</div> - -<p>A Steam Velocipede has also been invented, from -which great speed is expected. The cylinders and -their attachments to the two driving wheels are not -shown. They are placed vertically in front of the -boiler, between it and the seat, and connect with -cranks on the shaft of the driving wheels. The engraving -shows the position of the boiler relatively to -the other parts of the machine. The engine is a -direct acting compound engine of two cylinders, -each cylinder two and a half inches diameter, and -five inches stroke. The steering gear consists of an -endless chain over a grooved wheel on the engine -shaft, and passing over a corresponding wheel fixed -between the forked shaft just over the front. The -latter grooved wheel is a wide one, and over it passes -another chain. This latter chain works round the -boss of the front wheel. This arrangement gives -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_83">[Pg 83]</span> -power to the front wheel, so that in turning a corner, -this wheel takes a wider sweep than the two driving wheels, -which go first. In travelling on a straight -road (backwards) the machine is turned to either -side by turning the steering wheel to the opposite -side. The boiler is a vertical one, with four tubes, -one and a half inches internal diameter, hanging -down by the side of the fire-box. The fire-grate is -cast with four holes in it to receive the bottom ends -of the tubes so as to hold them firmly. Height of -boiler, two feet six inches; height of fire-box, fifteen -inches; diameter of fire-box, eleven inches; diameter -of boiler, fourteen inches. The fire-box and tubes -are copper, pressure two hundred pounds; but twenty-five -pounds of steam will be equal to a velocipede -propelled by the feet.</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>Philadelphia has recently produced a velocipede of -an entirely new style. There are but two wheels, -the seat sitting quite low between them. The novelty -consists in a cog attached to the guiding-post, by -means of which the rear wheel is made to follow -directly in the track of the forward wheel. No -matter how short the turn, both wheels make it at -the same time, and the seat always remains parallel -with the driving wheel. In other machines there is -no guide to the rear wheel, and consequently the -machine cannot be turned so readily when a collision -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_84">[Pg 84]</span> -is threatened. The new machine, which is called the -“Keystone,” in honor of its native State, is substantially -built, and so far as it has been tested in the -riding school, is pronounced a success.</p> - -<p>There is an ingenious gentleman in Cincinnati, -who is at work constructing a velocipede to be propelled -by a spring, on the principle of a watch. -After winding it up, he calculates that it will move -two miles before it will require winding.</p> - -<p>A gentleman in Albany has arranged a velocipede -to run on railroad tracks. The wheels have flanges -to them, so that they cannot leave the rails. The -flanges are so arranged as to be removed when -occasion requires, so as to make the machine available -on ordinary roads. The inventor claims fifty -miles an hour.</p> - -<p>An expert velocipedestrian in the West, has had -rubber tires put upon the wheels of his vehicle; and -finds by their use, he can ride in winter over snow -and ice without slipping, and that in summer he is -much relieved of the jar from roughnesses of roads.</p> - -<p>The vast majority of the new velocipedes of which -we hear daily, prove total failures on trial. Most of -their inventors proceed upon abstract principles, and -fall into absurdities, from which previous practical -knowledge would have saved them.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_85">[Pg 85]</span></p> - -<div class="figcenter illowp100" id="i_085" style="max-width: 20em;"> - <img class="w100" src="images/i_085.jpg" alt="" /> -</div> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="VELOCIPEDES_FOR_LADIES"> -VELOCIPEDES FOR LADIES.</h2> -</div> - -<p>We present a bicycle for ladies, lately invented -and patented by Messrs. Pickering & Davis of New -York City. It will be seen that the reach or frame, -instead of forming a nearly straight line from the -front swivel to the hind axle, follows the curve of the -front wheel until it reaches a line nearly as low as -the hind axle, when it runs horizontally to that point -of the hind wheel. The two wheels being separated -three or four inches, allow of an upright rod being -secured to the reach; around this is a spiral spring, -on which a comfortable, cane-seated, willow-backed -chair is placed. This machine, with a moderate sized -wheel (of thirty to thirty-three inches), will allow -being driven with a great deal of comfort and all the -advantages of the two-wheel <i>veloce</i>. In mounting, -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_86">[Pg 86]</span> -a lady has to step over the reach, at a point only -twelve inches from the floor, the height of an ordinary -step in a flight of stairs.</p> - -<p>A machine for ladies has also been invented by -S. T. Derry of Boston, and patented by Messrs. -Sargent and Derry, which in construction and appearance -is very similar to the one just described. -Its saddle is of velvet on springs, giving a perfectly -elastic seat; it is furnished with mud fenders in front -and behind, and is complete in every respect.</p> - -<p>Both these machines have been examined by -experts and pronounced satisfactory. It will be -readily seen that they obviate many of the difficulties, -embarrassments, and objectionable features of -the bicycle. They will, doubtless, become popular. -While young men have been dashing about on velocipedes, -many young women have looked on with -envy and emulation. They have not been satisfied -with the tricycle designed for their especial use; and -have felt it hard that they should be denied the -exercise, amusement, risk, dash, and delightful independence, -which the bicycle so abundantly affords.</p> - -<p>It is possible that our young ladies will rush into -velocipeding as they have into skating, and other -athletic amusements. It would be a substitute, in -many cases, for the expensive luxury of horseback -exercise, and has the advantages over it, of convenience -and pleasure as well as cost. Velocipeding will -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_87">[Pg 87]</span> -be particularly nice for suburban ladies, who have -smooth roads around them, over which they may -bowl to their hearts’ content, and drive themselves -from house to house on morning calls. It will not -be necessary to keep an ostler, nor to have an attendant -to assist in mounting and to accompany the -rider. When ready for her ride, a lady may take her -horse from the front hall, clean and fresh, mount, and -be off. It would be a bright and beautiful day for -our land, should a laudable and reasonable ambition -once fairly get possession of our young women, to -cultivate and develop their physical natures, and to -become strong, healthy, robust, and enduring.</p> - -<p>A short time since, “The Revolution” published -an able article recommending the use of the bicycle -to ladies. It has been used by them for some time -in a quiet way, and to a much greater extent than is -generally supposed. There are classes for ladies in -almost every large city; and many are waiting for -fine weather, to enjoy the art in the open air, instead -of a closely confined room; and to “Witch the world -with noble horsemanship.”</p> - -<p>The idea has been conceived from seeing experts -ride side-saddle fashion, and drive the machine with -one foot, that ladies might begin by learning the art -in that way. This would be well nigh impossible, -though it is easy enough after one is proficient. But -with a proper teacher of their own sex, and with -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_88">[Pg 88]</span> -suitable dresses for preliminary practice, ladies can -soon obtain such a command over the vehicle, that -they can ride side-saddle wise with perfect ease.</p> - -<p>A lady must begin with great moderation, and -train her muscles to the work of propulsion, or they -will cry out vehemently at first. Above all, she -must avoid getting cold, rheumatism, and neuralgia, -after being heated by the exercise.</p> - -<p>The best school for ladies is established in Boston, -and is conducted in a properly private and exclusive -manner. It is supplied with a number of lady -teachers and assistants, all under the direction of the -best “velocipedagogue” in the city. It is in a large -hall in a good locality, and is provided with the best -French machines, dressing-rooms, and other conveniences. -Many good old Boston names are to be -found upon the list of pupils. The lessons are -twenty-five dollars for a course of instruction, with a -guarantee of proficiency.</p> - -<p>There is also a school especially designed for ladies, -at the corner of Fifth Avenue and Fourteenth Street, -New York, at what is known as the Somerville Art -Gallery. This has two halls of an area of 3,000 -square feet. One of the halls is set apart for beginners, -and the other for those more advanced.</p> - -<p>Ladies, in riding the bicycle, commonly use the -modest and appropriate costume worn by them in -calisthenic exercises and in the gymnasium. Another -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_89">[Pg 89]</span> -very suitable dress for the <i>velocipedestrienne</i> has been -thus described:—</p> - -<p>“Let the outer dress skirt be made so as to button -its entire length in front; the back part should be made -to button from the bottom, to a point about three-eighths -of a yard up the skirt. This arrangement does -not detract at all from the appearance of an ordinary -walking costume. When the wearer wishes to prepare -for a drive, she simply loosens two or three of -the lower buttons at the front and back and bringing -together the two ends of each side, separately, buttons -them in this way around each ankle. This gives a -full skirt around each ankle, and, when mounted, the -dress falls gracefully at each side of the front wheel.”</p> - -<p>Miss Carrie Augusta Moore, well-known in amusement -circles as “The Skatorial Queen,” has been -riding the bicycle in public in Washington, Boston, -and the Western cities, with much success. Her -riding is described as finished and graceful, and her -costume as neat and modest.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_90">[Pg 90]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="VELOCIPEDE_SCHOOLS_AND_RINKS"> -VELOCIPEDE SCHOOLS AND RINKS.</h2> -</div> - -<p>Those who have thought the rage for velocipedes -would be fleeting and evanescent, have found -themselves much mistaken. Velocipede “Schools,” -“Halls,” “Rinks,” “Institutes,” and “Academies,” -have sprung into existence with mushroom rapidity. -There are scores in our large cities, and one or more in -almost every country town. They secure a patronage -which is not only surprising, as indicating the extent -to which the enthusiasm prevails; but also as showing -that the desire to ride is not confined to any -particular age, or to any class of persons. We have -seen astride the bicycle in the same rink, the old and -the young, the fat man and the lean, the doctor, who -does not believe that the fashionable exercise develops -one set of muscles to the detriment of others; the -clergyman, a regular muscular Christian; and the -newsboy who has sold his papers in the cold and -rain to accumulate the funds to make him as much -the privileged character as any nabob. We have -witnessed the lawyer, the tradesman, and the mechanic, -spinning with ease and grace. We have -watched the lounger who fringes the edge of society -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_91">[Pg 91]</span> -with his delicate moustache, making his languid -attempt; we have seen the artist mount his Pegasus, -and the professor of literature, striving with noble -persistency to emulate his much envied tutor. There -is a marked fascination in the exercise which affects -alike the spectators and the participants. Those who -come to look, remain to ride; and those, who once -bestride “the wheeled Rosinante,” refuse to quit -until they have tamed the unaccustomed steed.</p> - -<p>It is very amusing to watch the eager pupils, going -through their novitiate. The beginners mount, -struggle, perspire, and tumble in all directions and -shapes; and blunders, awkward movements, collisions, -and shipwrecks follow each other in constant -succession. The more advanced ride with “This -one thing I do,” manifest upon every feature; and -one would suppose, from looking at their compressed -lips, knit brows, and fixed eyes, that they felt they -were guiding, like Phaëton, the horses of the Sun. -The graduates and proficients ride with charming -ease, carelessness, and control.</p> - -<p>“The early bird catches the worm,” is a proverb -particularly applicable to those who first started -velocipede schools. All the rinks, schools, academies, -and “velocipedagogues,” do a large business; and -their machines pay for themselves in a short time.</p> - -<p>The fever is not confined to the Eastern and -Middle States, but rages throughout the South and -West.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_92">[Pg 92]</span> -In some of the velocipede riding halls, a charge is -made for a series of ten lessons; at others, there is -an admittance fee, and a certain price per hour for -using the machine. In our cities, we have them to -suit all classes and conditions of people. They -range from the rinks in common localities, with their -sawdust floors, cheap machines, and nominal admission -fees, where the “timid toddlers” go it alone, -to the schools in the marble blocks, with their French -machines and experienced teachers.</p> - -<p>As our knowledge increases, our tastes become -more luxurious. The plebeian is content with his -wagon, but the patrician must have his <i>coupé</i>. The -beginner asks no better accommodation than is afforded -by the New Bedford machine; but one of the -“do it gracefuls,” or one of the “fancy few” must -have spring work, ornamental mountings, bright varnish, -and no sawdust under him; else he fails to experience -the acme of bicycular enjoyment.</p> - -<p>Among the most popular velocipede schools in -New York city, are those of the Pearsall Brothers, -corner of Broadway and Twenty-second Street; -Hanlon Brothers, corner of Broadway and Tenth -Street; Calvin Witty, 638 Broadway; Mercer & -Monod, No. 3 Williams Street; and Barber & Pendleton, -corner of Broadway and Forty-seventh Street.</p> - -<p>The Pearsall Brothers formerly occupied prominent -and lucrative positions with Messrs. Gurney & Son, -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_93">[Pg 93]</span> -photographers. They foresaw the future popularity -of the velocipede, and abandoned photography for -velocipeding with immediate success. They opened -the first school in New York, and have the names -of some five hundred or more pupils on their lists. -They have a velocipede ware-room under their hall.</p> - -<p>The Hanlon Brothers, well-known as gymnasts, -have the reputation of being the best riders in the -country. Their hall is the largest in New York, and -is furnished with twenty-five first-class machines. -They lately gave a “Velocipede Reception and Hop;” -and exhibited many graceful and daring feats upon -the bicycle; afterwards other gentlemen also gave -proof of their skill, among them, Charles A. Dana, -Editor of the “New York Sun,” who is an expert -rider.</p> - -<p>The largest and most popular school in Brooklyn -is under the direction of Mr. A. C. Burnham. At all -these schools, velocipede receptions and exhibitions -are of almost nightly occurrence, and create much -interest.</p> - -<p>Messrs. Crawford & Co., of Philadelphia, have a -large school, corner of Eighth and Callowhill Streets, -where they use a velocipede of their own construction, -in which the rear wheel is used as the -guiding wheel.</p> - -<p>Messrs. Mercer & Monod, of New York, have a -flourishing branch school in Philadelphia.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_94">[Pg 94]</span></p> - -<p>The Pearsall Brothers have one in Detroit, Mich., -and another in Chicago, Ill. The large Zouave Hall -in Chicago, under the direction of Geo. D. Miles, has -become a noted velocipede academy. The Nicholson -pavement, much used in Chicago, is admirably -adapted to this kind of propulsion, and the riders -soon leave the rinks for the streets. Chicago hails -any invention of a fast nature, and the velocipede -has already become a practical institution there.</p> - -<p>There is no place where the velocipede <i>furore</i> has -developed more rapidly or to a greater extent than in -Boston. There are over twenty schools and rinks in -the city; and no less than eleven on Washington -Street, between the Old South Church and Chester -Square. The first school in Boston was opened by -S. T. Derry of the firm of Wm. H. Sargent & Co., -at 155 Tremont Street. At this school the course -of instruction is thorough and complete, and all pupils -graduate experts. Six different sizes of French -pattern velocipedes are used, and the scholar is advanced -from one to the other, according to progress. -Though this is a private school, there are the names -of hundreds of graduates upon its lists. Mr. Derry -is an accomplished teacher. He has several other -schools under his charge, and has made arrangements -to lease the Skating Rink for the same purpose.</p> - -<p>The first public rink opened in Boston, was near -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_95">[Pg 95]</span> -Bowdoin Square (No. 7 Greene Street), and has -been deservedly popular. The proprietors have had -branch rinks in Cambridgeport, Brighton, and other -neighboring towns.</p> - -<p>The fashionable Horticultural Hall was transformed -into a first-class velocipede academy for a -limited time. This academy was provided with -coat rooms, dressing rooms, and other conveniences; -and with seats and accommodations for ladies. -Tournaments and races here followed each other in -rapid succession.</p> - -<p>Among the other popular rinks in Boston, are -those of Kimball Brothers, 113 Court Street; Walter -Brown, 179 Court Street; Horace M. Sargent, Boylston -Hall; Macy & Butler, 90 and 92 Tremont Street; -at 334 Washington Street; at Arlington Hall; and -at Riddle’s Carriage Repository, Haymarket Square.</p> - -<p>The two best and largest rinks in the United -States are to be found at Harvard Square, Cambridge. -One of them has twelve thousand square -feet of floor, and twenty-five good machines. The -other, built by Mr. John C. Stiles, is in the form of -an amphitheatre, and has a circular course of a little -less than an eighth of a mile in length. Only part -of the track is under cover. At night, this rink is -brilliantly lighted, and the scene is at once novel -and inspiring. Scores of riders rush madly after -each other at break-neck speed, round and round -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_96">[Pg 96]</span> -the arena. We have seen an expert whirl over the -course in seventeen seconds, which is nearly as good -time as any recorded abroad, and better than any -heretofore made in this country. The students of -“Old Harvard” crowd these rinks; the billiard halls -and other places of resort are deserted, and all are -eager votaries of the fascinating art.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_97">[Pg 97]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="WHERE_SHALL_WE_RIDE">“WHERE SHALL WE RIDE?”</h2> -</div> - -<p>But one thing is likely to interfere with the bicycle -campaign in our large cities and towns; and that is -the difficulty of finding suitable places to ride in. -Our latest hobby is already ridden with remarkable -fury in the streets, and will continue to be so, by -those who make the machine a means of utility. -Foot passengers, however, claim the sidewalks as -their exclusive rights; and will hardly be pleased to -feel in perpetual terror of—</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent0">Bicycles right of them,</div> - <div class="verse indent0">Bicycles left of them,</div> - <div class="verse indent0">Bicycles front of them,</div> - <div class="verse indent0">Rolling and tumbling;</div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - -<p>and those who ride for amusement, are anxiously -looking for suitable places, where they can do so -without annoyance to passers, or being interfered -with by them; where they can see and be seen; and -where their skill can be admired.</p> - -<p>But velocipede tracks are now in preparation. -Race-courses will be free to the bicycle, velocipede -stables will open in their vicinity, and the proprietors -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_98">[Pg 98]</span> -will rapidly line their pockets. All the skating -ponds will be metamorphosed into velocipedariums -and velocipede rinks. These will make capital exercise -grounds, where numberless riders can make -their graceful curves to the music of a good band; -and where, in hot summer weather, they can be protected -from the sun by awnings. The large parks -will be open to velocipedestrians.</p> - -<p>It has been currently reported that the Commissioners -of Central Park, New York, have prohibited -the driving of the bicycle there; but the rumor is -without foundation. No such interdict will be issued, -unless the blooded horses object to the novel -machine, by running away. Well-bred horses, -whether thorough-bred or not, already manifest no -emotion at the sight of the vehicle. Without doubt, -the Commissioners will yield gracefully to the public -demand.</p> - -<p>In New York, a project has been advocated of -building an elevated railway, from Harlem to the -Battery, to be used only by velocipede riders. On -such a railway, thirty feet wide, and with a flooring -of hard pine, it would be possible to go from one -end of Manhattan Island to the other in about an -hour, making allowance for delays, from stoppages -and accidents. A good rider, with a clear track, -could easily accomplish the distance in half an -hour; but, with a well-filled road, progress would -necessarily be slower.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_99">[Pg 99]</span> -In Prospect and Washington Parks, Brooklyn, the -bicycle votaries are allowed the same privileges as -equestrians. Many of the level streets of that city, -with the Nicholson and concrete pavements, furnish -a capital surface for the velocipedestrians, and are -great resorts. It is even said, that the benign City -Fathers propose to bridge the gutters for their accommodation.</p> - -<p>The residents of Boston will find good riding -grounds, easy of access to the city, on many of the -smooth roads of its beautiful suburbs.</p> - -<p>Philadelphians can ride the velocipede on their -straight, level streets. We know of no place so -admirably adapted to the bicycle, as Broad Street, -Philadelphia, with its miles of Nicholson pavement.</p> - -<h3 id="VELOCIPEDE_RACING">VELOCIPEDE RACING.</h3> - -<p>Another feature of the velocipede campaign, will -be races against time, and contests of rival riders. -Fast and slow races for money, silver cups, and -other prizes, follow each other night after night in -most of our rinks. All the race-courses will be -used for this purpose. A provision for this sort of -sport is in progress, at the Capitoline Ball-ground, -Brooklyn, where in May a half-mile track of smooth -hard road-way will be ready.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_100">[Pg 100]</span> -The managers of the Prospect Park Association, -of the same place, have made arrangements to signalize -their first spring meeting for 1869, with a -grand velocipede tournament; at which prizes -amounting to $1,500 will be given for the best time, -to the winners of a series of races. These races will -be governed by a special code of rules, which will -include handicapping for weight of machines and -riders, diameter of driving wheel, and extent of -treadles. There will be first, second, and third prizes -for the greatest speed; prizes for the best time -made; and prizes for slow riding. This tournament -will afford, not only an excellent opportunity -for the display of skill in American velocipede riding, -but also a fair chance to show off the merits of -the different styles of machines. It will create an -excitement, and it is anticipated that many thousand -people will be present.</p> - -<p>The proprietors of Riverside Park, near Boston, -also intend to inaugurate a series of bicycle contests -on their course during the ensuing summer.</p> - -<p>At the last annual meeting of the Housatonic -Agricultural Society of Berkshire County, Mass., a -vote was passed, offering premiums for bicycle races, -at the next exhibition and fair.</p> - -<p>Velocipede races are now a feature of the French -turf meetings. These are less cruel, and more attractive -and exciting, than running horses under -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_101">[Pg 101]</span> -whip and spur. In the suburbs of Paris, a race of -this kind is especially interesting. The village in -which it takes place is in holiday guise; banners -flaunt gaily, and eagles, wreaths, and flowers are to -be seen in every direction. The mayor is usually -present, with a red, white, and blue scarf, his badge -of office. The riders wear jockey caps and silk -jackets, and at the moment of starting are drawn -up abreast. The fair sex mount their chairs, wave -their hands, flourish their handkerchiefs, laugh, and -scream with delight as their favorites start at the signal. -In spite of the exertions of the <i>gendarmes</i>, the -crowd closes in behind the contestants, who are soon -lost to sight. In a few moments, however, distant -shouts and cheers announce the return; and the -crowd opens, to allow the passage of the victor, -who passes the winning-post amidst great applause.</p> - -<p>The fastest time which has thus far been made in -France, was one mile in two minutes and fourteen -seconds. There is a record also, of two miles having -been made in four minutes and fifty-six seconds. -This extraordinary speed was attained on a perfect -track, with large-wheeled machines.</p> - -<p>Among the velocipede wagers which have had -place in our newspapers, we mention one or two of -the more remarkable. It is said that a Providence -pedestrian and rope-walker is to commence, on the -first day of June next, the unparalleled feat of propelling -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_102">[Pg 102]</span> -a velocipede of his own manufacture, a distance -of three thousand miles in thirty days, averaging -one hundred miles per day, for a wager of -$5,000. During the trip, he is to ride the velocipede -one hundred and fifty miles in twenty-four hours, -and one trial only will be allowed.</p> - -<p>Two New York gentlemen have wagered $1,500 -a side to ride from New York to Chicago. Articles -of agreement have been drawn up and signed with -a forfeit of $250 each.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_103">[Pg 103]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="VELOCIPEDE_LITERATURE">VELOCIPEDE LITERATURE.</h2> -</div> - -<p>Until very recently, velocipede literature has been -confined to some few magazine articles, editorials -in scientific, illustrated, and other newspapers, and -various and constant newspaper squibs.</p> - -<p>Now, however, the velocipedestrians have a novelty -in a paper of their own, which has made its appearance -in New York. It is to be published monthly -by Messrs. Pickering & Davis. It is a quarto -of eight pages, and is entitled “The Velocipedist.” -“The object this paper has in view, is to record -everything of interest in the velocipede world.” It -is edited by W. Chester King, late of Athens, -Greece, whom Horace Greeley, in the “Tribune” of -February 1st, 1869, justly styles a “brilliant and -accomplished young litterateur.” This young gentleman -has distinguished himself, in a marked manner, -in various branches of journalism; and “in -velocipede literature he is as far ahead of his contemporaries -as, in Virgil, Tityrus tells us, Rome was -in advance of other cities.</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent0">‘Verum hæc centum alias inter caput extulit urbes</div> - <div class="verse indent0">Quantum lenta solent inter viburna cupressi.’”</div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_104">[Pg 104]</span></p> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="VELOCIPATHY">VELOCIPATHY.</h2> -</div> - -<p class="h2sub">THE VELOCIPEDE FROM A MEDICAL STAND-POINT.</p> - -<p>The vast majority of people are almost wholly -responsible for their physical condition. Bodily -strength and sound health, like mental accomplishments, -are the results of cultivation; and the greater -part of mankind can as easily obtain them, as they -can acquire a knowledge of Mathematics in school -or college.</p> - -<p>Let any one place, side by side, the closely confined -student or clerk, and the man who has paid -special attention to his physical culture. Compare -the pale or sallow face, the flat chest, the narrow, -stooping shoulders of the former, with the development -of the latter, whose vigorous frame defies disease, -whose strength gives a consciousness of power -that makes him fearless of danger, and who can exult -in that greatest earthly possession, exuberant health. -These two classes of men will be the fathers of the -next generation. The great disparity between them -can be obviated by physical training on the part of -the former. If not, then, merely as a means of happiness -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_105">[Pg 105]</span> -to ourselves, is it not a duty we owe to succeeding -generations, that we cultivate these means of -raising man to the summit of his nature, physically -as well as mentally?</p> - -<p>The condition of civilization (if one avoids its -vices), does not weaken bodily vigor, provided the -locomotive system is kept in thorough activity. The -masses should not only have the necessary amount -of exercise in the open air, but a perfect exercise of -every muscle in the body.</p> - -<p>A neglect of the powers with which our Creator -has endowed us, is punished by their withdrawal. -Allow the intellect to remain idle and it will become -sluggish. All parts of the human organism not -sufficiently worked, are liable to degenerate; the -nerve force which should guide and govern is allowed -to sleep; the muscles become inelastic fibre -of but little vitality. Tie up an arm for months and -it withers away. Let the muscles of our young -men and delicate young ladies remain idle; they -degenerate and atrophy.</p> - -<p>“Everything that prolongs human life, ameliorates -human suffering, elevates and develops the -human frame, is an element of progress; an element -that all true men admire and cherish.”</p> - -<p>The velocipede is one of the finest inventions of -the nineteenth century. It is a physiologically constructed -machine; is an invaluable means of promoting -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_106">[Pg 106]</span> -health, and bids fair to emancipate our -youth from the common muscular lethargy and -debility.</p> - -<p>Velocipeding is superior to skating, horseback -riding, base-ball, and rowing. While skating is -good for the legs, horseback riding for the chest, -base-ball and rowing for the legs and arms, the benefit -derived from exercise on the velocipede is not -local. <i>It gives a natural exercise and general development -to every muscle of the body.</i> The arms are -the first to feel the effect of the exercise, for the -pressure of the feet upon the stirrups must be met -by a corresponding pressure of the hands on the -tiller, necessary to prevent the front wheel from turning. -This pressure of the tiller against the hands -puts the rider in an upright position, with elbows -well back and hands well extended, straightens the -stooping shoulders, facilitates respiration, expands -the lungs, and develops the chest. No position can -be maintained upon the velocipede, inconsistent -with ease and elegance of motion, or incompatible -with the laws of health.</p> - -<p>Some physicians of prominence have pronounced -against the velocipede, and one has issued a pronunciamento -advising young men to shun it, but the -majority of the profession give it their hearty and -cordial support. Medical men are among its most -eager votaries. One of the best physicians in our -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_107">[Pg 107]</span> -country, who makes diseases of the lungs a specialty, -rides the bicycle two hours a day, and prescribes it -for his patients. He considers it a great preventive -of that scourge of our climate, consumption; and a -grand aid to the development and improvement of -the human body. Many busy men of the profession -in New York, Boston, and other large cities, either -have their own machines, or ride daily in the schools -and rinks. They regard this preparation of Iron (the -velocipede), as better than any in their Materia -Medica.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> -<div class="chapter transnote"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="Transcribers_Notes"> -Transcriber's Notes -</h2> - -<p>A number of typographical errors were corrected silently.</p> - -<p>Cover image was created from elements of the book and is donated to -the public domain.</p> - -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin-top:4em'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE VELOCIPEDE ***</div> -<div style='text-align:left'> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Updated editions will replace the previous one—the old editions will -be renamed. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United -States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. 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