May 1 1869 Harper's Weekly, Velocipede Bicycle Mania, Yorktown Surrender, Shakespeare Portrait, Ebenezer Bassett

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This May 1, 1869 issue of Harper’s Weekly is a fantastic find for collectors of early cycling history, Revolutionary War iconography, and African American milestones. It captures the "Velocipede" craze that was sweeping the nation alongside significant diplomatic appointments of the Grant administration.


​Title: May 1 1869 Harper's Weekly, Velocipede Bicycle Mania, Yorktown Surrender, Shakespeare Portrait, Ebenezer Bassett


​Item Description
​A visual feast of 19th-century culture! This original 16-page issue showcases the transition from historical reverence to the high-tech (for 1869) "velocipede" fever.
​Major Historical Content:
​🚲 The Velocipede Mania: Features a spectacular full-page illustration, "The Velocipede Mania—What It May Come To." This satirical and detailed print captures the early bicycle craze. These "Boneshakers" were the latest high-society fad, and this print is a cornerstone for any cycling or sports history collection.
​🇺🇸 Revolutionary War Heritage: A magnificent full-page engraving of the "Surrender of Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown, Virginia." This high-quality historical recreation was intended for framing by patriotic Victorian households.
​✊ Ebenezer D. Bassett: Features a portrait of Ebenezer D. Bassett, "Colored Minister to Hayti." This is a significant piece of Black history, as Bassett was the first African American to be appointed as a U.S. diplomat (Ambassador).
​✍️ The Bard of Avon: Includes a stunning full-page "Portrait of Shakespeare," a classic piece of literary art that reflects the era's deep appreciation for English literature.
​🌍 Diplomatic Appointments: The front page highlights the new administration's team, including John Lothrop Motley (Minister to England) and John Jay (Minister to Austria), plus a view of General Sherman’s Residence in D.C.
​🏢 Architecture & Monuments:
​A half-page view of the New City Hall in Baltimore.
​An illustration of the Harvard Monument, dedicated to the university’s founder.
​A half-page scene of St. Helena, the island of Napoleon’s exile.



​🔍 Condition
​I have provided high-resolution photos of every page. This 157-year-old issue is complete in 16 pages. The "Velocipede" and "Yorktown" full-page prints are in excellent condition—dark, crisp, and very displayable. Standard light age-toning is present, adding to its authentic antique character.



​📦 Shipping & 🖼️ Archival Framing
​Professional Shipping: Your history will arrive flat, secure, and tracked. I never fold or roll these delicate 19th-century documents. They are protected by heavy-duty boards to ensure they arrive in gallery-ready condition. 🚫🗞️
​Archival Framing Available: The Shakespeare portrait or the Velocipede mania print are perfect for a study or office. I offer Custom Archival Framing upon request, using UV-protected acrylic and acid-free matting to preserve the paper for another century. 🏛️


​💎 Why It’s Collectible
​Early Cycling History: 1860s bicycle prints are incredibly popular; the "Velocipede Mania" is one of the most famous satirical takes on the trend.
​Black History Milestone: The inclusion of Ebenezer Bassett makes this a vital issue for collectors of African American political history.
​Display Quality: With three distinct full-page illustrations (Shakespeare, Yorktown, and Velocipedes), this issue provides incredible value for those looking for high-end framing pieces.



​SEO Keywords
​1869 Harpers Weekly, Velocipede Mania, Early Bicycle Print, Ebenezer Bassett, African American Diplomat, Surrender of Cornwallis, Yorktown Virginia, Shakespeare Portrait, General Sherman Residence, Baltimore City Hall, Antique Cycling Art.
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