Harper's Young People, June 14, 1881

A bustling Boston street becomes a river of gleaming wheels as the League of American Wheelmen rolls through the Back Bay for its annual meeting. The mile‑and‑a‑half procession, complete with silken club flags, bugles and cheering crowds, turns the city’s ordinary thoroughfare into a dazzling display of skill and camaraderie. Young onlookers watch in awe as seasoned riders and a daring group of boys demonstrate graceful control on their 36‑ to 56‑inch bicycles, sparking a wave of ambition among the city’s youth.

The accompanying article captures that excitement while offering practical guidance for any boy eager to join the ranks. It explains the basics of balance, hill climbing, and safe braking, emphasizing that a few falls are a normal part of learning—no more dangerous than other popular sports. Readers also learn about the modest cost of a good bike, the simple uniform that identifies a wheelman, and sensible advice on staying hydrated while riding. The piece invites healthy, adventurous boys to experience the freedom and vigor of cycling.