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Keens Cycle Manufactory OFH01_01_02_051
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Keens Cycle Manufactory OFH01_01_02_051
Keen's Cycle Manufactory, Angel Road, Giggshill Green, Thames Ditton, Elmbridge, Surrey. A group portrait taken outside the bicycle workshop and repair shop of John Keen, Champion Cyclist at Giggshill Green, Thames Ditton.
John Keen (1849-1905) was a professional cyclist and manufacturer of bicycles. By 1878 Keen, also known Happy Jack, was reputed to be the fastest rider in the world. In the 1870s he set up a business manufacturing bicycles. This photograph was taken outside his workshops adjacent to The Angel public house on Angel Road, Giggshill Green, Thames Ditton. The man standing second from the right appears to be John Keen
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 28682017
© Historic England Archive
1880s 1890s People At Work People Posed Sport Transport Victorian Weatherboard Cottage Industry Manufacture Penny Farthing Sportsman
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in the history of cycling. The image showcases Keen's Cycle Manufactory, located at Giggshill Green in Thames Ditton, Surrey. In front of the bicycle workshop and repair shop stands a group of individuals, presumably employees or associates of John Keen himself. John Keen, also known as Happy Jack, was not only a professional cyclist but also an esteemed manufacturer of bicycles during his time. By 1878, he had gained recognition as the fastest rider in the world. This photograph dates back to the late 19th century when Keen established his business manufacturing bicycles. The location itself holds historical significance as it is situated adjacent to The Angel public house on Angel Road. The weatherboarded building adds charm and character to this snapshot from Victorian times. Notably, one man stands out among the group - second from the right - believed to be none other than John Keen himself. His presence solidifies his role within this thriving cottage industry that combined both sport and manufacture. Transport enthusiasts will appreciate seeing several penny farthing bicycles showcased outside the workshop, symbolizing an era where these unique contraptions were prevalent on roads across Britain. Preserved by Historic England Archive, this print offers us a glimpse into an important chapter in cycling history while celebrating John Keen's contributions to both sportsmanship and innovation within transportation technology during the late 19th century.
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