William A. Rowe, Cyclist, from World's Champions, Second Series (N43) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

This chromolithograph, "William A. Rowe, Cyclist," is part of the "World's Champions" series of trading cards created by Allen & Ginter in 1888. The card depicts a portrait of William A. Rowe, a renowned cyclist of the time, alongside his bicycle, a high-wheeled "ordinary" bicycle popular in the late 19th century. The card's design features a decorative floral border, a characteristic of the era's printing techniques. The card's size and format were designed to be collectible and suitable for inclusion in cigarette packs, reflecting the common practice of using trading cards as promotional material. This card offers a glimpse into the world of cycling in the late 1800s and provides a unique perspective on the development of sports and its connection to popular culture.