Art of the Olden Days including Horse and Buggies, and transportation from earlier times.
A gentleman stands proudly with his penny-farthing bicycle, a symbol of the late Victorian era. This pen and ink drawing by Maggie LaNoue is a captivating addition to the Cyclist series, showcasing the elegance and nostalgia of early cycling.
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The bicycle was pivotal for women’s rights, offering them freedom of transportation. Five lady cyclists often joined for Sunday rides in the countryside during the 1890s. The debate over women and bicycling was intense, highlighting the struggle between social independence and traditional morals.
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In this scene, a man enjoys a moment with his best friend, a dog. The formal attire signifies the era when bicycles were a significant investment, often costing half a year’s pay. This was before the mass production of bicycles. The term “Bysicle” was first used in 1847 for a two-wheeled vehicle, possibly a carriage.
This artwork shows a young woman with her bicycle, posing by a scenic spot. Her bicycle signifies the newfound freedom and self-reliance women experienced in the late 19th century. As bicycles became popular, they offered women independence, changing societal norms and women’s fashion. The question remains: “Where are all the women on wheels going?”
Old-Time Girl Cyclist Read More »
Small towns across the United States, especially in Michigan, were forever changed by the automobile’s popularity. The arrival of early cars, noisy and horse-free, astonished local citizens. These vehicles, with wooden spokes for wheels, faced many challenges on rough dirt roads. With the advent of the affordable Model T, cars became increasingly popular, reshaping towns and lifestyles.
Detroit’s Ford Model T, produced from 1908 to 1927, was the first affordable automobile, opening travel to the middle class. Known for its efficiency and affordability, it transformed the industry. Henry Ford famously said, “Any customer can have a car painted any color that he wants so long as it is black.”
This Classic Cadillac, named Madame X, is a 5-passenger sedan made in 1930. Named after a popular stage play, it features a Fleetwood body style with a flat windshield, chrome hood ventilators, wire wheels, running boards, and a rear quarter panel storage compartment. The car’s name and design pay homage to the mysterious and intriguing character from the play.
The 1901 Curved Dash Oldsmobile is credited as the first mass-produced automobile, featuring a 5 horsepower engine, seating for two passengers, and a top speed of 20 mph. Priced at $650, it marked a significant milestone in automotive history. This pen & ink drawing depicts the car displayed at the R.E. Olds Museum in Lansing.
Near Grand Rapids, this round barn stands out with its unique shape, horses grazing nearby, and budding trees signaling spring. Built during the height of round barn construction from 1880-1920, it features a cupola for ventilation. Maggie LaNoue captured this scene in the 1980s, showcasing Michigan’s agricultural charm.
Marshall, Michigan – Heatherbrook Farm’s historic barn showcases a mural by Tony Hendrick. Created in 2007, the mural celebrates the farm’s rich heritage. Maggie LaNoue’s mixed media rendition combines drone photography and hand-done brushstrokes, capturing the essence of this beloved landmark.
Heatherbrook Farm Barn Mural Read More »