Colonel Albert Pope
A former captain in the Civil War, Albert Pope founded Pope Manufacturing Company in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1877. Although a captain, he was referred to as Colonel in civilian life. His first bicycle was a 60-inch high wheeler that sold for $125 in 1878.
1880s to 1900s: Many Models
Through the 1890s into the early 1900s, Pope manufactured many different bicycles, including the Special Columbia, Youth Columbia, Mustang, Youth's Mustang, Columbia Ball Bearing and the Three Track Racer. By the end of the century, Pope had plants in Boston and Chicago.
An American Legend
Albert Pope and Columbia Bicycles are credited with being the founders of the American bicycle industry. Columbia markets itself as "bike shop quality at affordable prices." Unlike many of their competitors, Columbia Bicycles are shipped 90 percent to 95 percent assembled.
The Casual Rider
Columbia Bicycles are marketed to the casual rider who wants quality without the high cost of bike shop prices.
125th Anniversary
To celebrate its 125th anniversary, Columbia released a commemorative bicycle. The bicycle comes with a speedometer and clock, coaster brakes and is painted in retro ivory and blue.
Article Written By Eric Cedric
A former Alaskan of 20 years, Eric Cedric now resides in California. He's published in "Outside" and "Backpacker" and has written a book on life in small-town Alaska, "North by Southeast." Cedric was a professional mountain guide and backcountry expedition leader for 18 years. He worked in Russia, Iceland, Greece, Turkey and Belize. Cedric attended Syracuse University and is a private pilot.
