This Baker’s Bridge photo is available as a poster from the Animas Museum in Durango, Colorado. Click on image for larger size.
When I saw the 1895 photo of the Durango Wheel Club on Baker’s Bridge overlooking the Animas River, I had to have it. It was hanging up in the Amsterdam Bike Shop in Santa Cruz. Sadly owner Tom Sullivan closed his shop on May 31, but that’s another story.
I took the information on the poster and traced it to the Animas Museum in Durango. Sure enough, they sell a print for $10. It’s only 23″ x 19″ but I think they sell a larger version for a higher price. I would also prefer that the print be true black and white rather than a sepia tone.
Here’s a link to the original image, taken in June 1895. By this time the highwheeler was history and the safety bike reigned supreme. Thank goodness!
Baker’s bridge used to be located 12 miles north of Durango. The bridge was swept away eons ago, but it’s still a wild and scenic area.
Many outstanding black and white photos of cycling in the late 1800s exist. This is one of them, worthy of a wall mounting.
January 30, 2013 at 11:42 am |
This photo was taken by my great-grandfather, Frank Gonner. He worked in Durango from 1889 to 1912. Of all the photos he took, this is the one that makes him famous.
February 1, 2013 at 5:59 pm |
Kathy, something to make you proud. The scene is stunning, the lighting magical.