Man Riding a Velocipede, circa 1819

01

Artifact Overview

The first forerunners to the bicycle appeared in the 1810s. These two-wheeled vehicles were called velocipedes -- an adaptation of the Latin phrase "velox pedis," meaning "swift of foot." The earliest versions had no pedals or crank mechanisms. Riders simply scooted along using foot power.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Print (Visual work)

Date Made

circa 1819

Subject Date

circa 1819

Collection Title

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

29.3026.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Salt House Press.

Material

Paper (Fiber product)

Technique

Engraving (Printing process)

Color

Black-and-white (Colors)

Dimensions

Height: 5.063 in
Width: 8.5 in

Man Riding a Velocipede, circa 1819