Chilion Bicycle, 1897

Summary

M. D. Stebbins Manufacturing Company of Springfield, Massachusetts, was one of the largest makers of wood frame safeties. This 1897 Chilion bicycle used polished, hickory frame rods connected with aluminum-bronze lugs. The company claimed this distinctive bike would not buckle when riders hit obstructions, as metal rods would. And, of course, the bike would not rust.

M. D. Stebbins Manufacturing Company of Springfield, Massachusetts, was one of the largest makers of wood frame safeties. This 1897 Chilion bicycle used polished, hickory frame rods connected with aluminum-bronze lugs. The company claimed this distinctive bike would not buckle when riders hit obstructions, as metal rods would. And, of course, the bike would not rust.

Artifact

Bicycle

Date Made

1897

Keywords

Bicycles 

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

30.872.2

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of J. F. Markeet.

Material

Wood (Plant material)
Hickory (Wood)
Metal
Brass (Alloy)
Chromium
Rubber (Material)
Leather

Color

Black (Color)

Dimensions

Length: 72.5 in

Width: 17.5 in

Height: 42.5 in

Wheelbase: 45.25 in

Inscriptions

Metal insignia in front: M.D. STEBBINS MFG. CO. / CHILION / SPRINGFIELD MASS U.S.A.

Related Content

Connect 3

Discover curious connections between artifacts.

Learn More