William D. Wilmot, "Fancy Bicyclist," 1879-1885

01

Artifact Overview

Some high-wheel cyclists raced. Some leisurely toured the countryside. William D. Wilmot entertained. Known as a fancy bicyclist, Wilmot and his partner performed amazing feats in the 1880s. The duo balanced, did handstands, and climbed over each other on a moving 50- or 54-inch high wheeler. Wilmot also astounded audiences doing a singles act.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Cabinet photograph

Subject Date

1879-1885

Location

By Request in the Benson Ford Research Center

Object ID

86.18.15.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Cardboard
Paper (Fiber product)

Technique

Gelatin silver process
Mounting

Color

Black-and-white (Colors)

Dimensions

Height: 6.438 in
Width: 4.188 in

Inscriptions

Photographers imprint on front and back: Scott / QUINCY ILL. Handwritten on back: Yours W.D. Wilmot / Fancy Bicyclist / c/o Pope Mfg. Co. Boston / Date / 1879 to 1885
William D. Wilmot, "Fancy Bicyclist," 1879-1885