Waltham’s Contributions to the Fastest Wheels on Earth

A talk by Amy S. Green, Ph.D.
Resident historian at the Charles River Museum of Industry & Innnovation

Waltham, Massachusetts played a prominent role in the bicycling craze of the 1890s, manufacturing some of the finest bikes for leisure and racing, and providing a venue for racing, where world records were set.  

During a time when the urbanizing world increased the tempo of everyday life, the bicycle craze made speed a virtue. By clocking times (often using Waltham stopwatches!), setting records became the hallmark of this sport phenomenon, attracting thousands of spectators in cities throughout the United States—including Waltham, at the Waltham Bicycle Park, the site of what is now known as Nipper Maher Park.  Equally important during this era were the men and women who bought leisure bikes and issued in touring as an important part of a new fascination with outdoor recreation.

Come learn about the bicycling craze of the late 19th century and Waltham’s noteworthy place in this historical era. 

Doors open at 6:30pm. The talk begins at 7:00pm.