The Emperor's Ride | Mechanics' Institute

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The Emperor's Ride
Notes on a Famous Photograph

In 1869, San Francisco was in the throes of a “velocipede” mania. Hundreds of citizens flocked to the Velocipede Training School, located in the Mechanics’ Pavilion that stood on part of today's Union Square, to learn how to ride and to participate or watch competitions. The Grand Velocipede Tournament, held in April 1869, was the zenith of this young cycling culture. It attracted the curious, the strong, and two important personages who realized its historical significance: the eccentric Emperor Norton and the photographer Eadweard Muybridge. Join the Mechanics' Institute and the Emperor’s Bridge Campaign for a free lecture about this moment in time.

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Activities

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4th Floor Meeting Room
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Future Activities

Apr 5 - 5:00 pm

Monthly Chess Social
Join the Chess Room for Chess Socials on the first Friday of each month

Apr 12 - 5:00 pm

Mechanics' Institute Evening Tour
New, long-time, and prospective members are invited to tour the Mechanics' Institute

Apr 20 - 10:00 am

Family Story Hour in the Library
Gather round to hear stories and make crafts nestled in the 2nd Floor Library