Antique Lynn Cycling Club Photograph from 1800s | Massachusetts

Here we have an extremely rare piece of bicycling and Massachusetts history. The ornate frame surrounds a large photograph of the Lynn Cycling Club, circa late 1800s. Everyone of these gents has a story to tell, just by the pose and the gaze. Check out their L.C.C flag, decals and the caps. Basically, this is one of those "where in the h*** did you get that" kind of items, especially if you're up in the New England area. And this ornate beauty emits a historical power that delivers all the mystery and intrigue you need to gather the crowds.

There is a fascinating history behind the L.C.C. as well as other Massachusetts cycling clubs. Here's a short background courtesy of the Massachusetts Historical Society:

"As Stephen Hardy wrote in his book How Boston Played, “Pioneer sportsmen and sportswomen needed emotional support. They found this in the club, a group of like minded deviants who formed a subculture based on enjoyment of a certain activity.” Boston was home to the very first cycling club, the Boston Bicycle Club, organized in February 1878, which required its members to have 10 years of cycling experience under their belt, but less than 20 years later, the state was home to no fewer than 139 cycling clubs—catering to various proclivities (racing or recreational), genders (although some clubs were co-ed, many were not), and races and nationalities. In 1879, the year the Waltham Cycle Club was established, clubs were also founded in Amherst, Brockton, Essex, Fitchburg, Harvard, Lynn, Salem, and Worcester! Although some clubs merely rode together, others maintained lavish headquarters where members could indulge in other social activities. Cycling clubs also proved to be a vital lobbying group, advocating for better roads and protections for cyclists who were often considered a nuisance, if not an actual menace on the roads."

The large antique bicycling photograph comes out of a Twin Cities institution, likely the Minnesota Historical Society. There is a maker's mark in the bottom right reading "G.C. Hovey Photo". Mr. Hovey offered his services in Lynn during the late 1800s.

The ornately framed photograph measure 18" tall by 24" wide. There is surface patina from age throughout the photograph. There is a tear in the upper left (see pic). There is a also discoloration along the left side of the backing board. Please see all pics as they are part of the description.

I ship FedEx to street addresses in the continental USA only (no PO Boxes). Free shipping on the extremely rare historical photograph.

Lean into this curve. So wicked.