Burley B. Ayers of the League of American Wheelmen, circa 1885
THF203354 / Burley B. Ayers of the League of American Wheelmen, circa 1885
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Artifact Overview
Chicagoan and cyclist, Burley B. Ayers, was a prominent member of the League of American Wheelmen. League members were early advocates of good roads and the rights of cyclists. Ayers encouraged railroads to transport bicycles free of charge or for a minimal fee to promote cycling. He also managed touring events for cyclists throughout the U. S. and Canada.
Artifact Details
Artifact
Cabinet photograph
Subject Date
circa 1885
Collection Title
Location
By Request in the Benson Ford Research Center
Object ID
86.18.6.1
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Paper (Fiber product)
Cardboard
Technique
Gelatin silver process
Mounting
Color
Black-and-white (Colors)
Dimensions
Height: 4 in
Width: 4.188 in
Inscriptions
Handwritten in ink on back: Burley B. Ayers / Chicago, Ills. / Prominent in / League of American / Wheelmen activities / in 1880's.
Handwritten on ink in front: Burley B Ayers
Keywords |
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Related Content
SetLeague of American Wheelmen
- 15 Artifacts
In the late 1800s, cyclists faced many challenges. Poor road conditions made travel difficult, and even on passable roads, cyclists found themselves unwanted. Wagon and carriage drivers thought bicycles and bicyclists frightened their horses, while others believed cyclists posed a danger to pedestrians. In 1880, several cycling clubs formed the League of American Wheelmen to advocate for bicyclists' rights.