This Is How Cyclists Rode at Night”

Before bike lights… before streetlights… riding at night was genuinely dangerous.

In this episode of The Antique Detective, I take a closer look at an early 20th-century Everlight bicycle lamp—a small but powerful object that once made night riding possible. Fueled by oil and guided by a simple flame, this lamp was all a cyclist had to see the road ahead and be seen by others.

We’ll explore how this lamp worked, why it was designed this way, and what it tells us about daily life at a time when darkness ruled the roads. From its magnifying bullseye lens to its ventilated cap, every detail had a purpose—and every night ride carried real risk.

Antiques like this aren’t just objects. They’re quiet witnesses to the past, and they carry stories of courage, independence, and survival.

Welcome to the Channel! Step into the world of The Antique Detective, where we unveil the fascinating stories behind antiques!

Join us on an exhilarating journey through Connecticut, Western NY, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and all of New England as we explore and connect with shop owners and sellers of vintage treasures, collectibles, and antiques!

Want to be featured on the show? Reach out to Debra via email at theantiquedetective25@gmail.com