Mark Twain's Bicycle
Original OwnerOriginally owned by
Samuel L. Clemens
(American, 1835 - 1910)
ManufacturerManufactured by
Pope Manufacturing Co.
(American, 1890 - 1912)
Date1883
MediumIron, rubber, paint
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (length x height x width): 66 x 58 1/4 x 27in. (167.6 x 148 x 68.6cm)
ClassificationsVehicles
Credit LineGift of Franklin Whitmore
Object number1921.4.0
DescriptionBicycle, 52" wheel, rubber wheels, iron crescent shape seat, one large wheel and one small wheel in back.
Label TextMark Twain learned to ride this bicycle around his home on Farmington Avenue in Hartford. It was difficult for him to keep his balance and he fell off many times. He humorously wrote about his experience in his essay, “Taming the Bicycle,” which ended with the advice, “Get a bicycle. You will not regret it, if you live.”
Status
On view
Samuel L. Clemens
