The stiff wood and metal frame of velocipedes resulted in a rough ride, garnering them the “boneshaker” moniker. Propelled by pedals attached to the front axle, velocipedes were the historical antecedent to the high-wheeler and safety bicycle later in 19th century. With no identifying marks, it is difficult to establish a firm provenance for the vehicle. When S. R. Sturdevant donated the vehicle to the National Museum in 1889, he believed it was made around 1869 in Dayton, Ohio.