As the weeks get closer to Bike to Work week (May 16-20), it seems fitting to post this article about the history of biking in Northfield. This article was written by Susan Hvistendahl and published by the Entertainment Guide in May of 2014. Susan Hvistendahl wrote a brief summary of her article:
“5/14: “The Early Bicycling Craze.” Research into the early bicycling craze of the late 19th century shows the progress from high wheel bicycles to safety bicycles, which brought bicycling to the masses and profoundly affected women in their quest for emancipation. The history includes early bicycle racing, the Northfield and Faribault bicycling clubs and the account of William Warren Dean of Carleton who recounts the reaction of “spinsters” to the “shockingly indecent” bikes and the bloomer attire worn by ladies. He also writes of his own adventures, riding a bike to the Chicago World’s Fair of 1893 and the reaction of horses and mules he found while riding. Accompanying pieces by Nate Nelson on “Non-Rules of the Gravel Road” and “Northfield: Bike Town, USA?” by Bruce Anderson.”
Check out the attached article, and get ready to bike to work from May 16-20!
Thanks to the Entertainment Guide and Susan Hvistendahl for sharing their article.