"American Star" High-Wheel Bicycle, 1886
01
Artifact Overview
George Pressey patented the American Star bicycle in 1880 as a safer alternative to the typical high wheeler. He reversed the wheel orientation by placing the large drive wheel in back. Riders, situated well behind the frame, fell backwards rather than pitching forward in a dreaded "header" when the bicycle encountered an obstacle.
Artifact Details
Artifact
Bicycle
Date Made
1886
Place of Creation
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
30.1646.7
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Metal
Chromium
Wood (Plant material)
Rubber (Material)
Color
Brown
Dimensions
Length: 68.5 in
Width: 28.5 in
Height: 56 in
Inscriptions
handlebars: H.B. SMITH MACHINE CO. / SMITHVILLE, N.J. / PAT. / OCT 26 NOV 1880 / AND / JANY 7 1885 / 2927
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