Pedaling Through History: 40 Fascinating Vintage Photos of People Posing With Their Penny-Farthings from the 1850s to the 1930s

   

In 19th-century England, bicycles became symbols of progress and individual freedom. Among the distinctive bicycles of the era was the Penny Farthing, an icon from the years 1850 to 1890.

With its large front wheel and small rear wheel, the Penny Farthing presented a striking and unique appearance. This design allowed riders to travel quickly and achieve higher speeds compared to other types of bicycles. Despite its allure, controlling the Penny Farthing required caution and skill, and it was often seen as a symbol of bravery and daring.

During this period, Penny Farthings were commonly used by sports enthusiasts and the aristocracy. Owning a Penny Farthing was considered a sign of prosperity and social status. However, due to its high cost and challenging handling, the Penny Farthing was not widely accessible to the general public.

Although it existed for a relatively short time, the Penny Farthing left a lasting mark on the history of bicycles. It symbolized both technological and cultural progress in the early days of cycling, as well as individuality and character.

 
A woman riding a classic penny farthing bicycle, Toronto, 1930
Bathing ladies on a penny farthing, ca. 1930s

 

 
Bicycle racer Elsa von Blumen on her penny farthing

 

Frances Pidgeon on a penny farthing bike, 1956

 

Grace Bradley on her penny farthing

 

Grace Bradley rides on a penny farthing bike

 

Lynne Carver riding a penny farthing bike while Jo Ann Sayers walking with a bike

 

Marilyn Monroe on a penny farthing bike, 1949

 

Riding a penny farthing in a skirt and heels, 1930

 

Riding a penny farthing in Hollywood, 1927

 

Shirley Grey riding a penny farthing

 

Two female circus performers riding on their penny farthing

 

Victorian beauty riding on a penny farthing, ca. 1890s

 

Woman riding a penny farthing

 

Woman riding a penny farthing, ca. 1890s