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Rare Columbia model 41 (Pope Mfgr) ca. 1896

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:750.00 USD Estimated At:1,500.00 - 2,500.00 USD
Rare Columbia model 41 (Pope Mfgr) ca. 1896
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This American Artifact is the first US made production bicycle; America's first Bike! A similar Example resides in the Smithsonian. The machine made by the Pope Manufacturing Co., of Hartford, Connecticut, is made of high-carbon-steel tubing and 4 1/2 percent nickel-steel tubing, the joints and brackets of which are machined forgings weighs approximately 30 pounds. The Columbia machine has a double-drop frame, and two small gussets connect the bars for additional strength. The wheel rims, of laminated wood, are approximately 25 inches in diameter and have 28 and 36 tangential steel spokes, respectively, front and rear. They are fitted with 28-inch, single-tube, pneumatic tires The hubs are machined from solid drop forgings of steel, and are fitted with detachable ball cases for tire bearings. Each end of the front and rear axles is supported on a ball bearing. Lubrication is through oil holes in the wheel hubs. The rear-wheel sprocket is driven from the front sprocket by a block chain on the right side of the machine. The tension of the chain is adjusted by moving the rear axle backwards or forwards in slots at the rear end of the rear fork. There is no coaster attachment, the pedals always turning while the bicycle is in motion. Front pegs are provided for the rider to rest. (pictured) The nonadjustable crank throws are 6 inches in length, and the pedals are rubber covered and mounted on ball bearings. The two halves of the crank assembly are dovetailed together within the crank hanger, yet can be easily separated and removed from the hanger, which is fitted with two covered oil holes for lubrication of the crank ball bearings. A hand-operated spoon brake operates on the front tire and is controlled by a lever pivoted on the right handlebar. 2-way adjustable leather and nickel seat, Twine is laced across the rear wood mudguard to protect the rider's clothing. Rear mudguard is in incredible shape. Excellent overall condition, will not ever find an example in better shape. History: The Pope Manufacturing Company was founded by Albert A. Pope in the 1870s and was the first company to manufacture bicycles on American soil. Pope, who had previously exported bicycles from England, began building bicycles under the trade name "Columbia" in the Weed Sewing Machine Company's factory in Hartford Connecticut in 1879. By 1890, the company was so successful it had bought the factory from Weed because it needed all the space.