Match Case with Bicycle Image

In the 1890s the growing popularity of safety bicycles, which had smaller wheels than high-wheelers and were easier to ride, led to a social revolution. Women rode safety bicycles for the first time, men and women socialized on wheels, and millions of Americans took to the road for pleasure trips and practical purposes. These developments created a market for biking accessories like this decorative metal match case. The image on the front of the case – a well-dressed man riding in a rural area – exemplified the placid pastime of riding on country roads, a striking contrast to train travel in coal burning, steam-powered trains.