Recently I visited the National Cycle Archive at the University of Warwick to research a cycle manufacturing business my ancestors ran in the 19th century. While I was searching through an 1878 issue of the Bicycling Times, I came across this amusing letter:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/72952135@N ... hotostream
I love the options that the correspondent felt were open to him: take the law into his own hands ("and have a good night's amusement in the dark"!), carry a firearm, or stick to the main roads. Great stuff.
The perils of night riding - 1878 style
Re: The perils of night riding - 1878 style
And people say that we are going downhill today!
Re: The perils of night riding - 1878 style
"... I, of course, gave a warning blast on a bugle I was carrying, ..."
It was a different world.
It was a different world.
Re: The perils of night riding - 1878 style
Nor could you ever find a policeman when you wanted one. Different world indeed. Wait a minute...
Re: The perils of night riding - 1878 style
"I was riding in company... in the loneliest part of the well known lanes that lead from the main road at Acton to the foot of Kew bridge..."
I love the idea of cycling south from Acton to Kew bridge along lonely 'lanes'. All now long gobbled up by the urban sprawl of west London.
I love the idea of cycling south from Acton to Kew bridge along lonely 'lanes'. All now long gobbled up by the urban sprawl of west London.
Re: The perils of night riding - 1878 style
Inspiring.
I, for one, will be getting a bugle.
I, for one, will be getting a bugle.
Re: The perils of night riding - 1878 style
A firearm is also recommended!
Re: The perils of night riding - 1878 style
I prefer to have a "good night's amusement in the dark"