Cycling
The
first bicycle was invented in 1817 by Karl von Drais, a German
baron. It was a two-wheeled, steerable running machine. It had no
chain, brakes, or pedals. The rider pushed the bike using his feet.
In 1839, Kirkpatrick Macmillan of Scotland added pedals and levers,
providing users to pedal the bicycle instead of leaving their feet
on the ground. In 1866, the penny farthing was introduced by James
Starley, a British engineer. The front wheel was oversized and on
top of it is the
saddle. In the rear is a small wheel. This was a big hit in the
1870s and 1880s, and was the first bike used in race competitions.
In 1879, the bicyclette was patented by Henry J. Lawson, which
included a chain-driven mechanism. In 1889, the patent for tandem
bicycles was issued to Herbert Owen and William Starley. In 1933,
the first cruiser bicycle was invented by Schwinn.
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Miscellaneous Cycling Articles
RENOWNED CYCLISTS TRAVEL AROUND THE WORLD
William “Will” Lewis Sachtleben Jr. of Alton, Illinois and
Thomas Gaskell Allen Jr. of Ferguson, Missouri.
William “Will” Lewis Sachtleben Jr. was born in Alton on December
11, 1880. He was the son of William “Will” Satchtleben Sr., an Alton
clothing store proprietor on Third Street, doing business as F. W.
Joesting and W. Sachtleben. The Sachtleben family lived on the
southeast corner of 7th and Langdon Streets in Alton.
Will and his friend, Thomas Gaskell Allen Jr. of Ferguson, Missouri,
were bicycle enthusiasts. They attended Washington University in
Missouri together, and in the Fall of 1890, traveled to England to
explore the British Isles. In London, they made the decision to
travel around the globe on their bicycles, and commissioned the
Isagnor’s Cycle Company of Bayswater to build them special light and
strong bicycles called “Safeties” for their journey. This company
sponsored their trip, and along their route they sold quite a few
bicycles for the firm. Also, Will Sachtleben invented and sold a
patented valise which attached to bicycles.
The idea of a trip around the world was conceived as a practical
finish to a theoretical education. The bicycle was adopted merely as
a means to that end. Once in London, they formed the plan of
penetrating the heart of the Asian continent, instead of skirting
its more civilized coastline.
Will and Thomas gathered letters of introduction from ambassadors of
various countries, including China, Russia, Turkey, and Persia
(Iran), which would allow them entrance into these countries. They
were advised to make application to the Russian Czar’s
representative on their arrival in Teheran, as they would enter the
Russian dominions from Persia. In London, the secretary of the
Chinese legation, a Scotchman, assisted them in mapping out a
possible route across China, although he tried to dissuade them from
their journey. “Western China,” he stated, “is overrun with lawless
bands, and the people themselves are very much adverse to
foreigners.”
On September 16, 1890, Will and Thomas left London, escorted by the
members of the Paddington Athletic and Catford Cycling Clubs. They
entered Newhaven, where they crossed into Dieppe, France. From there
they headed to Paris for a short stay. It was estimated their
journey would take two years. A year and a half after staying in
London and gathering permissions to enter each country, the young
men were on their way. They left the last outpost of western
civilization, and found themselves on the wagon road to Ismid,
Turkey. Since the opening of the Trans-Bosporus Railway (built by a
Germany company), the wagon road fell into disrepair, and was
impassable for the wheel. They were forced to take the railway for a
time. After leaving Geiveh, they were attended by a mounted guard
who was sometimes forced upon them by the authorities in order to
carry out the wishes expressed in their letters of the Grand Vizir.
The guard would urge them through the small villages, telling them
“come on, ride faster.” Through each village they were met with
onlookers staring at their strange “horses.” The people would
challenge them to a race, and announce that the “devil’s carts have
come.” Villagers would examine their bicycles in wonder, and even a
small fountain pen became a puzzle to them. The pen was passed
around, and explained and commented on at length. Often Will and
Thomas slept in a small inn, with only one room for guests. After
putting their bicycles under lock and key, they would lay down in
their clothes and try to sleep, but the noise of the Turkish supper
and quarreling villagers put sleep out of the question.
In Kaisarieh, they were greeted by missionaries, and were given
hospitality. A feature of the missionaries was the education of the
Armenian women, who often whispered as the missionary women walked
by “Madana Satana,” which meant “a female devil.” The young men
spent several weeks in the U.S. consulate in Sivas, Turkey. One of
them contracted typhoid fever from drinking water from a roadside
stream, and was taken care of by missionary ladies.
Heading eastward, the two men journeyed on to Mount Ararat, Turkey.
Here was, in Armenian legend, the land of Eden, which the Turks
placed at its base. At its peak was where Noah’s ark rested after
the great flood. Mount Ararat is the cornerstone where Turkey,
Armenia, and Iran share borders. Before attempting to climb Mount
Ararat, they visited the mutessarif of Bayazid, and showed him a
letter they had from the Grand Vizir of Turkey. They had to gain
protection and assistance, as the local Kurdish tribes on its slopes
would either kill or capture them if they attempted to climb alone.
Will and Thomas had large nails driven into the soles of their shoes
by a local shoemaker, which would help in their climb. They bought
provisions for the expedition, and struck a bargain with an Armenian
muleteer to carry their food and baggage up the mountain on his two
little donkeys. The two men were surprised before they left, to meet
a young Austrian, who was making his way to Russia on a sight-seeing
tour. He was accompanied by an older man, an experienced
mountain-climber, who they urged to join them. On July 02, their
small group, with two donkeys at the head, filed down the streets of
Bayazid, followed by a curious on-lookers. They did not proceed far
when a party of Kurdish horsemen approached from the mountain. After
a parley, their zaptiehs signaled that all was well, and they could
continue. The Kurds invited them to a lunch of ekmek and goat’s-milk
cheese, while they studied
their clothing and baggage piece by piece
with loud expressions of merriment. Soon the Kurds were on their
horses once again, galloping away in the afternoon sunlight. The
small group came upon a Kurdish encampment, and the zaptiehs took a
letter to the Kurdish chief. They were invited to tea, which the
young men had to provide. There were only two glasses in the entire
camp, and the young men had to wait their turn to quench their
thirst. The next day, they started up the mountain. Will and Thomas
finally reached the top of Mount Ararat, sinking from sheer
exhaustion on the cold snow. They lay gasping for breath, then a
full realization of their situation dawned upon them, fanning the
few faint sparks of enthusiasm that remained. They unfurled a small
American flag, and for the first time the “Stars and Stripes” was
given to the breeze on Mount Ararat. Four shots from their revolvers
were given in commemoration of the American Independence Day. With a
storm approaching, they made their way back down the slopes.
On the morning of July 8, in company with a bodyguard of zaptiegs,
they wheeled down from the ruined embattlements of Bayazid. An hour
later, they surmounted the Kazlee Gool, and Iran was before them.
They were escorted several miles to the Persian village of
Killissakend, and committed to the hospitality of the district khan.
The next day they were on their way again. Five days in Iran brought
them to the shores of Lake Ooroomeeyah, the saltiest body of water
in the world. The next day they reached the English consulate at
Tabreez (Tabriz), where they were received by the Persian secretary.
At Tabreez, near the Russian border, they found themselves prolonged
for more than a month by an attack of typhoid fever. Once again, the
kind missionary ladies hastened recovery.
Traveling on again through Iran, they found themselves missing a
village where they intended to stay the night. As darkness
approached, they pedaled at an increasing speed, with no human
habitation in sight. With a burning thirst, chilling temperatures,
and swarms of mosquitos biting through their clothing, they could
not sleep. Finally, they were glad to hear the sounds of a caravan,
and they groped through the darkness to the sounds. A long line of
camels marched to the music of their lantern-bearing leader. When
their bicycles were seen in the lantern-light, there was a shriek,
and the lantern fell to the ground. The rear guard rushed to the
front with drawn weapons, but they stopped at the sound of the
American’s voices, even though they were attempting a broken Turkish
language to reassure them. Soon Will and Thomas were surrounded with
lanterns and firebrands. Finally, the group moved on, with Will and
Thomas walking side by side of the leader. The night was the
blackest they had even seen. Footsore, thirsty, and hungry, they
reached a river, but did not dare to satisfy their thirst except by
washing out their mouths. They fell asleep from sheer exhaustion.
When they woke, the midday sun was shining, and a party of Persian
travelers was bending over them. On their way once again, they
dropped suddenly into the Kasveen plain. The thermometer read 120
degrees in the shade. Soon the paved streets, sidewalks, lamp posts,
and street railways of the modern capital of Teheran rose up before
them. They were escorted to the French Hotel. Six weeks were spent
there, waiting for permission from St. Petersburg, Russia, to enter
their domain. With winter coming on, they could not wait much
longer. Against all protest, they waved farewell to the foreign and
native throng which had assembled. On October 5, they wheeled out of
the fortified square on the Pilgrim Road to Meshed. Before them lay
six hundred miles of barren hills, swampy kevirs, briar-covered
wastes, and salty deserts. The hardships were ameliorated by
frequent stations, and by the use of cucumbers and pomegranates,
both of which they carried with them on the long desert stretches.
In the village of Aradan, they were met by a large crowd, and shown
to a room in a honeycomb structure that surrounded an open
courtyard, filled with a caravan of pilgrims carrying triangular
white and black flags with the Persian coat of arms. They had seen
many of these flags over the doorways in Persia, as a warning of
danger of trespassing upon the religious services held within. The
cadaverous stench revealed the presence of half-dried human bones
being carried by relatives and friends for interment in the sacred
“City of the Silent.” Dead bodies, in loosely nailed boxes, were
always traveling from one end of Persia to the other. The call to
prayer was given, and all kneeled and bowed toward Mecca.
Traveling onward, their two weeks’ journey was almost ended, for the
city of Meshed was now in view. Meshed was the pivotal point on
which their wheel of fortune was to turn. They received an
invitation to the Russian consulate-general, where they were given
permission to proceed to Askabad [in Turkmenistad], which they did.
A hearty welcome back to civilized life was given by General
Kuropatkine, and they enjoyed dinner with him. The General assured
them that no further recommendation was needed than the fact that
they were American citizens to entitle them to travel from one end
of Russia to the other.
Reaching the city of Kuldja, they investigated the validity of their
Chinese passports for their journey to Peking. The Russian consul
pronounced them not only good, but the best that had been presented
by any traveler entering China at this point. After endeavoring to
dissuade them from what he called a foolhardy undertaking, the
consul sent them to his interpreter for the proper visas. The
interpreter made them wait for an order from Peking, and they
utilized their time in familiarizing themselves with the language
and customs of the Chinese.
On the morning of July 13, long horns and the boom of the mortar
cannon at the fort woke them at daylight. The journey through China
began, after long talks regarding the dangers of the journey ahead.
Every judgement was against them, and every prediction was of
failure, if not of something worse. A score of horsemen escorted
them on the road, and at parting, they all dismounted and uttered a
prayer to Allah for their safety, as Will and Thomas rode away on
their bicycles. The horsemen then drew their fingers across their
throats in silence, and waved a solemn goodbye. They reached a spot
which was once the haunt of a band of border-robbers, which they had
heard so much about. The government exterminated most of them, and
hung the head of their chief on a pole nearby, which was caged from
birds of prey – serving as a warning to others who might aspire to
the same notoriety. The two men were forced to spend the night at
this spot, as (through the carelessness of the Russian blacksmith) a
very serious break occurred in one of their gear wheels. Their
sleeping bags were put to the test on the damp ground, and the
penetrating cold and occasional panther-like cry of some animal kept
them awake the greater part of the night, awaiting with revolvers in
hand some expected attack.
The next day they continued their journey, taking six hours to cover
fifteen miles. They were half dragging, half pushing their wheels
through a foot of sand, while slapping at mosquitos swarming around
them. They met a caravan of Chinese in their traveling-vans, loaded
with goods from India. After traveling further, Will and Thomas took
a quick bath in a roadside stream. It astonished them how little a
man required when once beyond the Western conventionalities. They
passed field of maize, wheat, and rice, which was considered a
luxury for the wealthy. Millet and coarse flour is more than half
the subsistence of the common class.
On entering a Chinese city, they made it a rule to run rapidly
through until they came to an inn, and then lock up their bicycles
before the crowd could gather. A Chinaman who could speak a little
Russian directed them to a comfortable inn at the far end of the
city. A mob gathered to see the “foreign horses.” It had been posted
in the city a month before that “two people of the new world” were
coming through on “strange iron horses,” and everyone was requested
not to molest them. At the inn, the owner came out wringing his hand
and urging them that any attempt on their part to enter would cause
such a rush, that it would break his house down. Will and Thomas
climbed a ladder to the roof instead, and sat through the evening
twilight while the crowd below stood taking in their every move.
Nightfall came, and a rain came to their relief. The next morning, a
squad of soldiers was dispatched to raise the siege, and at the same
time presents for Will and Thomas began to arrive from various
officials. A crowd gathered, lining the streets and they were taken
to the viceroy’s palace at the far end of the city. While the
soldiers attempted to make way for them, the crowd stuck sticks in
their wheels, or threw their hats and shoes in front of them as they
rode by. As the palace came into view, the crowd closed around them.
They shouted for them to ride, but there was no room to move. With
great difficulty they made their way through with the help of the
soldiers, and the large crowd pushed through the palace gate with
them. Will and Thomas performed an exhibition on their bicycles, and
were then given refreshments in the palace. The next day, they dined
with the officials. The Chinese were excellent cooks, and they were
given sliced meat, stewed with vegetables, radishes and onions, two
loaves of Chinese mo-mo or steamed bread, and a pot of tea. A crowd
gathered to watch the foreigners eat, and their opium and tobacco
smoke filled the room.
From the city of Urumtsi, they took the northern route to Hami to
avoid the sands of the Tarim basin. Two guards were commissioned by
the viceroy to take charge of them, and hand them over to the next
relay station. At Barkul, the first evidence of English influence
began to appear. English pulverized sugar now took the place of
Russian lumps of sugar. English letters could be recognized on the
second-hand paper and bagging, and the gilded buttons worn by the
soldiers bore the stamp of “treble gilt.” On the southern slopes of
a pass, they met many large caravans of donkeys, dragging down pine
logs to serve as poles in the proposed extension of the telegraph
line from Su-Chou to Urumtsi.
It was dusk on the evening of August 10, when they came to the
hamlet of Shang-loo-shwee. The Great Gobi dessert stretched out
before them like a vast ocean of endless space. They had four
hundred miles of this barren stretch to the Great Wall of China.
They struck out in the morning, and discovered that water was almost
everywhere near the surface, and springs bubbled up in the hollows.
However, the further they traveled, they were faced with undulating
plains of shifting, reddish sands, interspersed with quartz pebbles,
agates, and carnelians. The wind prevented the growth of any
vegetation except low, pliant herbage. The station houses in the
desert were nothing more than a collection of mud huts near a
surface well of water. There, caravans would put up during the day,
and travel at night. Will and Thomas ate nothing but very coarse
flour seasoned with sugar, making
a sweet bread they nicknamed “Gobi
cake.” This diet of bread and tea, together with the hard physical
exercise and mental anxiety, caused their strength to fail. One of
them became so sick that he could hardly retain food. A high fever
set in as they pulled into the station of Bay-doon-sah, and he took
to his bed while the other took medicine to ward off the symptoms.
Unfortunately an error was made when taking what he thought was
antipyrine, but took sulphate of zinc, which they carried to relieve
their eyes when inflamed by the alkali dust. This was swallowed
before the truth was known. They could do nothing but look at each
other in silence. Happily, it was an overdose, and vomiting
immediately followed, which relieve both of them. They thought of
one of them going ahead and sending back medical aid or proper food,
but each would not leave without the other. Another station was one
day’s journey away, but morning came and a violent hurricane from
the southeast swept the sand into their faces. Famishing with
thirst, tired beyond expression, and burning with fever, they
reached the bank of the Su-la-ho. Eagerly they plunged into its
sluggish waters and waded through under the walls of Ngan-si-chou.
With better water and food, they began to recuperate.
Picking up their journey again, they now came to the Great Wall of
China.
They could see it rising and falling in picturesque
undulations as far as the Tibetan ranges. There it stopped, after a
westward course of over fifteen hundred miles. Before them lay the
city of Su-chou, which would bring them again into the civilized
world. They saw approaching in the distance a Chinese mandarin and
his servant on horses. The leader rose in his stirrups, waved his
hat in the air, and shouted in clear, though broken, English, “Well,
gentlemen, you have arrived at last!” To hear their own language in
that part of the world as startling. They rode together into the
Ling Darin’s palace, with the gates thrown open by a host of
servants. They enjoyed a feast, and were visited by the magistrates
of the city. They rode out of the city at the appointed time, with
Chinese garments replacing their old, torn clothing.
Village after village appeared, with the people coming out to greet
them and their strange machines. The last fifty miles into
Liang-chou, a city founded by a Catholic Chinaman over two hundred
years ago, they were compelled to make on foot, owing to an accident
that caused serious troubles with their bicycles through the
remainder of their Chinese journey. As they journeyed through the
villages, they learned the force of the Chinese proverb that, “in
order to avoid suspicion, you must not live behind closed doors,”
and in consequence, they had their private quarters and luggage
ransacked. The young men also did not object to the villagers
wetting their paper windows with their tongues so that they might
noiselessly slit a hole in them with their fingernails. Sometimes
they would wake up to find the paper panes entirely gone. On one
occasion the crowd closed in upon the “foreign devils,” and had
their backs against a wall. Will and Thomas drew their weapons, and
the crowd retreated. The innkeeper, at the instigation of the crowd,
rushed out and grabbed the handlebars of their bicycles, demanding a
high sum for their stay (much higher than agreed upon). After much
struggling, Will and Thomas finally mounted their bicycles and made
their escape.
They were nearing the end of their journey through China. On
November 3, they came to the imperial capital. The goal of their
3,116 miles journey was now before them. They entered the western
gate of the “Manchu City,” and began to thread their way through the
crowds. They came to the English-owned Hotel de Peking, and asked
for lodging. That evening the son of the U.S. minister visited them,
and offered a selection from his own wardrobe until a Chinese tailor
could repair their clothing. They abandoned the idea of continuing
to the coast on the bicycles, which by this time were in no
condition to stand the strain. They journeyed down the Pei-ho River
in a houseboat. On their arrival in Tientsin, they called upon the
U.S. Consul. They met with the Chinese viceroy, who asked them of
all the countries they visited, which was the best? Following
etiquette, they replied “China.” They told the viceroy they thought
America was the best country overall, and he replied,” “If then you
thought that America was the best, why did you come to see other
countries?” “Because until we had seen other countries,” they
replied, “we did not know that America was the best.” Finally, the
interview was over, and they thanked the viceroy for the honor he
had done them.
Will and Thomas completed their journey and headed back to America
by steamship. During their journey, they wrote letters to their
families to keep them informed of their many experiences. These
letters often appeared in the local newspapers, including the Alton
Telegraph. They spoke of the scenery, the inhabitants, and of the
great danger they often faced. Their journey gained world-wide
attention, and their stories were published in newspapers around the
world. With the journey completed, Will wrote his father he would be
returning to America by steamship. They spent several weeks in San
Francisco, then proceeded their bicycle tour on their southern route
through Arizona and New Mexico, heading for St. Louis, Missouri. On
March 31, 1893, Will Sachtleben Sr. left Alton to travel to St.
Louis to greet his son after a separation of over three years. On
April 4, 1893, it was reported that Will and Thomas arrived in
Alton. They were surrounded by friends and family, and were in
excellent health and spirits. They young men started from London in
June 1890, and traveled through France, Italy, and Greece to
Constantinople, then on to Iran, Turkey, Russia, and China. In
Turkey, they climbed Mount Ararat, where on the Fourth of July they
planted the Stars and Stripes on its summit, and fired their pistols
in celebration. The world cyclists Allen and Sachtleben were given a
grand banquet at the Madison Hotel in Alton. Toasts were given in
their honor, and a grand time was had by all. In the following days
and months, Will and Thomas spoke at lectures and shared the photos
they had taken.
In 1894, William Lewis Sachtleben Jr. and Thomas Gaskell Allen Jr.
wrote their book, “Across Asia on a Bicycle;” published by the
Century Company, New York. This book detailed their first journey
around the world on their bicycles, and is available to
read online
for free. The book contains many photos of their journey.
In 1895, Will Sachtleben traveled to Chicago to attend a bicycle
show, and see all the new models that bicycle enthusiasts were
talking about. He was approached by Mr. Worman, publisher of the
Outing cycling magazine. The Outing magazine had sponsored another
cyclist, Frank Lenz of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. Will and Thomas had
crossed his trail in Shanghai, China, but as Lenz’s boat was
delayed, they never met. Lenz was making the same journey that Will
and Thomas had made - only he went alone. Lenz sent word of his
progress back to America, but while in Turkey, the communications
stopped. It was believed that he had either been captured or
murdered by the Kurds. The publisher of the Outing magazine wanted
Will to return to Turkey and find out what happened to Lenz, and if
he had been murdered, retrieve his body. Will Sachtleben agreed,
although he believed, because of his experiences with the Kurds,
that Lenz had been killed.
Will obtained all the necessary papers and approvals for his return
to Turkey, only this time he would travel by horse, train, or boat –
whatever method was available. Once in Erzeroum, Turkey, he engaged
a Turkish lawyer, and had him draw up a statement of the reason for
his visit. Will began his own detective work, and discovered that on
Lenz’s last days it was rainy. He sat writing his notes,
with his revolver and other personal effects on the floor drying
out, when the chief of the village entered among a crowd of curious
villagers. The crowd made way for the chief, but Lenz paid him no
attention. When the chief leaned over to pick up the revolver, Lenz
grabbed it away from him, which was an insult. The chief cursed him,
and said he was going to kill him. Unfortunately, Lenz only spoke
English, and did not understand the threat. The next day, Lenz chose
a shortcut that proved a fatal mistake. He was never heard from
again.
Will crossed paths with the suspected murderer of Lenz – the Kurdish
chief. The chief bragged that he would kill Satchleben as he did
Lenz. Will was shown pieces of Lenz’s bicycle and camera, taken
apart by locals and used for other purposes. They then placed them
on the altar of the local Christian church. Will believed the
Kurdish chief was trying to lay the blame of Lenz’s death on the
Christians. Some of the suspects in the murder of Lenz were
arrested, but they escaped jail. The body of Frank Lenz was never
found,
and no further proof was offered of the murder. Will left
Turkey with the sad news that Lenz had been murdered, and that he
could not find his body.
Will Satchleben return safely to America. He later moved to Houston,
Texas, where he lived his remaining days. He died in Texas on
December 12, 1953, at the age of 73. His brother, Charles, of San
Diego, California, was the last surviving member of the family. He
did, however,
have cousins still living in Illinois – Alice Miller of Belleville;
and Mrs. W. C. Gates, Mrs. H. S. Baker, and George Lang, all of
Alton.
Shortly before his death, Will made a trip through Alton on his way
to Columbus, Ohio, to make his home with his nephew, Charles W. King
(Will still maintained a home in Texas). He called on the publisher
of The Telegraph, and then wrote an article of his journey for The
Telegraph, which was published in April 1953. Will died in Texas on
December 12, 1953, at the age of 73 years.
SUGGESTED READING: "Across Asia on a Bicycle," by William Sachtleben and Thomas Allen.
*****************
NEWSPAPER ARTICLES:
ROUND THE WORLD ON BICYCLES
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, October 10, 1890
In the Illustrated Sporting and Dramatic News, published in London,
England, under date of September 27, we find the following under the
above caption:
“Since June 01, 1890, Messrs. Thomas G. Allen and William
Sachtleben, students of Washington University, United States of
America, have been exploring every portion of the British Isles on
safety bicycles. On reaching London, they commissioned the Isagnor’s
Cycle Company of Bayswater, London, to build them two special light
and strong machines suitable for their requirements, with which they
intend exploring every part of the globe accessible to this means of
locomotion. Great interest is taken in their venture, and every
assistance has been afforded by the different Ambassadors stationed
in London, through whose countries they have sought admittance.”
“A letter of introduction to the Shah of Persia, and special
facilities for passing through the Chinese dominion are among the
many favors. On Tuesday, September 16, 1890, they left London,
escorted by members from the Paddington Athletic and Catford Cycling
Clubs to Newhaven, where they crossed over to Dieppe, from whence
they will trundle direct to Paris for a short sojourn. It is
estimated that about two years will be consumed in the journey.”
The above article is accompanied by a splendid 7x8 cut, showing the
familiar face and form of our Alton boy, Will Sachtleben, and his
friend, Mr. Allen, in full costume and mounted on their “Safeties,”
which from their appearance seem to be completely fitted up for
touring. Great interest is taken in Alton as well as abroad, in
these young men and their trip around the world, which we hope may
afford them all the pleasure and profit which they anticipate and
their enterprise deserves. Judging from the cut shown, they are in
splendid health and spirits.
THE ALTON TOURIST
Source: Alton Telegraph, November 20, 1890
An interesting letter has been shown us from Mr. Will Sachtleben,
who in company with Mr. Thomas G. Allen Jr. of St. Louis, is touring
around the world on bicycles. The letter is dated Marseilles,
France, October 26, 1890, and describes first the run by a
circuitous route from Paris, via Bordeaux, to Marseilles, passing
through the principal towns and some of the wildest and grandest
scenery ever seen. At one time, the tourists were above the snow
line, and they describe the roads over which their travels led as
splendid. The newspapers all over France and Italy have advertised
them extensively, published accounts of their trip so far, and
printed cuts of them and their outfit. They have been received with
the utmost cordiality everywhere, entertained at clubs, introduced
to persons of note, and letters of introduction given them from town
to town. They have sold quite a number of bicycles for the English
firm they are representing, and Mr. Sachtleben has invented a
patented valise to be attached to the machines, which he is very
successful with. They go from Marseilles to Milan, Rome and
Constantinople.
LETTER FROM WILL SACHTLEBEN
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 30, 1891
A recent letter from Messrs. Will Sachtleben of Alton and Thomas G.
Allen of Ferguson, Missouri, is dated at Ertram a town in the
borders of Persia, and in the vicinity of Mount Ararat. The young
gentlemen report themselves well and prospering in their enterprise,
and on the eve of ascending Mount Ararat for the purpose, as they
say, of inspecting Noah’s ark.
ARRIVED SAFELY IN CHINA
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, November 14, 1892
A cablegram was received in St. Louis Saturday stating that Mr.
William Sachtleben and companion, who are making a tour of the world
on bicycles, have arrived safely in Shanghai, China. The overland
mail service is so poor in that part of China, that no letter has
been received from Mr. Sachtleben by his family for eighteen weeks.
FAMOUS CYCLISTS WILL ARRIVE IN ALTON IN FEBRUARY
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, December 24, 1892
Mr. William Sachtleben has received a letter from his son, William
L. Sachtleben, written from Shanghai, China, and stating that in
company with Mr. Allen, his traveling companion, he would arrive at
Vancouver, B. C. on December 21. They were to spend several weeks in
San Francisco, and then proceed by the southern route through
Arizona and New Mexico on their wheels for Alton, their starting
point. Mr. Sachtleben will probably arrive here in February.
THE CYCLISTS
Source: Alton Telegraph, January 19, 1893
Messrs. W. L. Sachtleben of Alton and Thomas G. Allen Jr. of
Ferguson, Missouri, have left San Jose, California, and are speeding
eastward on their bicycles for their terminus, St. Louis. When they
reach that point, they will have made a complete circuit of the
globe, covering the entire distance, excepting the oceans, on their
wheels. At San Francisco, they were royally entertained, being the
guests of President Jordon of the Leland Stanford University. At San
Jose, the Garden City Cyclers’ Club gave them a reception, and
escorted them on their wheels a number of miles out of that city.
Their photographs have appeared in all western papers, and long
articles regarding them written. Their trip is a phenomenal one. For
miles through the heart of China they had a square cloth attached to
the handles of their bicycles with the inscription, “Yu li men yen”
on it, meaning “Traveling students.”
Why would it not be a good idea for Alton cyclists to tender Mr.
Sachtleben and his companion a reception and tournament in Alton, on
the occasion of their visit here?
CYCLISTS IN TEXAS
Source: Alton Telegraph, February 16, 1893
Mr. Will Sachtleben and companion, Thomas G. Allen Jr., left Yuma,
Arizona on February 03, and are now headed for El Paso, Texas, at
which place they are due to arrive on February 18. The Victor wheel
company presented the travelers with “Victor” wheels in San
Francisco, which were very acceptable as their English wheels were
much the worse for their long journey. They have not as yet decided
whether they will continue their journey to New York or come direct
to St. Louis from El Paso, but are anxious to complete the circuit
round the earth.
CYCLISTS LEAVE EL PASO
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, February 25, 1893
Messrs. Will Sachtleben and Thomas G. Allen Jr., the bicycle riders
who are now completing the circuit around the world, left El Paso,
Texas on February 17. They will arrive in Dallas, 700 miles away,
sometime next week, and will spend several days in that city. In
choosing their course to New York City, they had intended going by
way of New Orleans and up the Atlantic coast. They have decided,
however, to turn north, and will arrive in Alton about three weeks,
barring accidents. The Athletic Club will give them a warm reception
at their rooms upon their arrived in Alton.
CYCLISTS HEADED FOR DALLAS
Source: Alton Telegraph, February 28 & March 02, 1893
Will Sachtleben of Alton and Thomas G. Allen Jr. of Ferguson,
Missouri, the renowned bicyclists who are completing their trip
around the world, are now spinning along at a rapid rate on the
Texas Southern Pacific track from El Paso, Texas, to Dallas. Judge
Allen of Ferguson received a letter from his son, in which the
latter, for the first time, expresses homesickness. After an absence
of nearly three years, the young man can scarcely wait for his
return home to meet his friends. To show how anxious they are to get
home, they broke their traveling record last week. In one day on the
hard, smooth railroad track in Texas, they covered ninety miles.
This is considered exceedingly good for travelers after such a
wearisome jaunt of 23,000 miles. In France, they traveled nearly 90
miles along the smooth roads, and at a time when they were fresh and
anxious to make a record. Mr. Will Sachtleben is equally as anxious
to get back to Alton, as is Mr. Allen to get to his home. He states
that the trip through Texas is not altogether devoid of interest,
although they pass through regions of sand where there is absolutely
no vegetation. At other places along the route there is an abundance
of wild flowers growing in that arid region. He describes some kinds
as being very fragrant and odd in appearance.
Upon reaching Dallas, Mr. Charles Sachtleben will meet his brother,
and they will spend several days together in that city. The cyclists
will then turn north, choosing either the M. K. & T. route or the
Iron Mountain Road. Mr. Sachtleben Sr. is also becoming eager to
again greet his son as he approaches his old home. The young men
will visit Alton together, and after spending a short time with
their parents, continue their journey to its end in New York City.
Source: Alton Telegraph, March 9, 1893
Messrs. Will Sachtleben and Thomas G. Allen Jr. arrived in Dallas,
Texas yesterday. The young men claim to have been the first
civilized persons who have crossed China, since Marco Polo
accomplished that feat in the sixteenth century.
VISIT TO THE GOVERNOR OF MISSOURI
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, March 29, 1893
Will Sachtleben and Thomas G. Allen called on Governor Stone of
Missouri yesterday morning in Jefferson City, and received a warm
welcome from that official. A large number of visitors at the
principal hotel in the city surrounded the tourists during their
stay.
FATHER GREETS SON AFTER THREE YEARS
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, March 31, 1893
Mr. William Sachtleben Sr. went to St. Louis today to greet his son,
Will Jr., after a separation of over three years. It is probable
that the wheelmen will go to Ferguson, Missouri tonight to the home
of Mr. Allen, and remain there until tomorrow night. The time of
arrival in Alton has not yet been ascertained, and the arrangements
will be made when word is received from the cyclists.
WORLD CYCLISTS RETURN TO ALTON
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, April 4, 1893
The world cyclers, Will Sachtleben of Alton and Thomas G. Allen Jr.
of Ferguson, Missouri, arrived in Alton at 6 o’clock p.m. Monday,
via Alton Junction from St. Louis. Upon their arrival in the city
limits, they were immediately surrounded by their many friends who
have watched with pride the journey of the plucky Altonian and
companion. After an absence of three years, they returned in
excellent health and spirits. To a Telegraph reporter they related
humorous interesting anecdotes about their perilous journey. They
started from London in June of 1890, went through France, Italy, and
Greece to Constantinople, where the interesting portion of their
journey commenced. From this point on a list of their stopping
places will enable the readers of the Telegraph to follow the young
heroes to Shanghai. Leaving Constantinople, they visited the
following cities in Asia Minor - Angora, Caesarea, Sivas, Kara
Hassar, Erzeroum, Bayezid. At this point, they prepared for a
journey to the top of Mt. Ararat, which they reached on the Fourth
of July, and planted the Stars and Stripes for the first time on its
summit. In Persia, they continued to Chol, Tabriz, Kasoin, Teheran,
Meshed. From here they journeyed into Central Asia along the caravan
routes between the following cities – Askabad, Mero, Bokhara,
Samareand, Tashkend, where they spent the winter of 1891, living on
the poor fare of the natives for seven weeks. In the Spring they
continued to Vernoe, Kuldja, Manass, Crumtze, Gutchen, Barkul, and
Haml. This point is located in an oasis on the Chinese frontier.
Upon leaving this place, they met the famous Gobi desert and the
inhabitants ominously drew their hands across their throats at the
undertaking of crossing it. They did not know what to expect,
knowing nothing of the people nor the country. The young men each
wrote touching letters home, and bade their parents an affectionate
goodbye before starting on their perilous journey. They met
stretches of sand and walked beside their bicycles for many miles.
It was a weary journey, but they were hardened to it and persevered.
At last, after weeks of toil, during which time they lived on a kind
of paste, they arrived at Suchow, Hanchow, Liangchow, Lanchifu,
Pingsangfu, Siganfu, Tungkivan, north to Paolingfu, and November 3,
1892, they reached Pekin. From this point their journey is familiar.
The Chinese wall is an interesting topic, upon which the young men
can give much information, having traveled nearly its entire length
beside it.
The world cyclists Allen and Sachtleben were banqueted in grand
style Tuesday night by citizens of Alton, who are ever ready to
applaud true merit. At 8:30 o’clock, a stylish closed carriage drove
up to the entrance of Hotel Madison, and Messrs. Sachtleben and
Allen stopped out. Upon ascending the stairway, an orchestra of
string music announced their arrival, and they were immediately
surrounded by an interested audience and escorted to the parlors.
Here, they were introduced to the citizens whom they had not met,
and related to the attentive listeners anecdotes of their great
journey. At nine o’clock supper was announced, and seventy-six
guests entered the brilliantly lighted dining room to take seats at
tables covered with snow-white linen. The tables were arranged in
the form of an “H.” Stands of fruit and table palms added to the
attractiveness of a well set board, surrounded by honored citizens
of Alton. Toastmaster McMillen then called upon Hon. F. W. Joesting
to make the address of welcome. Mayor Joesting, in a few words,
announced the safe arrival of the visitors and welcomes them
cordially to the Bluff City. Next came the supper of six courses.
The following was the menu which pleased everyone: bouillon,
mayonnaise of salmon, lettuce, queen olives, sweetbreads Au Petis
Pois, beef tenderloin with mushrooms, Roman punch, roast chicken,
Westphalia ham, Lyonnaised potatoes, Rochefort cheese, fruits,
coffee, and chocolate cake.
Toastmaster McMillen then started the ball rolling with a health to
Sachtleben and Allen, and called upon Colonel Brenholt to respond to
the toast “Our Guests.” Mr. Brenholt, in beautiful words, told who
“Our Guests” were. He proclaimed them heroes. He who is successful
in accomplishing a great undertaking is a hero, and heroism is
success in what we attempt. Messrs. Sachtleben and Allen undertook
the stupendous work of traveling with the sun around the globe.
After trials that would have daunted other than Americans, they
successfully returned to their homes, and “I proclaim them heroes.”
During the supper and after each toast the orchestra played strains
of sweet music, which added a charm to the evening which was proving
a delight. Mr. Thomas G. Allen Jr. of Ferguson, Missouri, made the
response to Mr. Brenholts toast, and did it excellently. Hon. Henry
G. McPike had the toast “City of Alton.” He has seen much of the
glorious United States, but naturally loves no spot so much as the
city of hills and valleys. We have a city that is bubbling over with
resources, and are proud of it, but above all, we can justly be
proud of Alton’s citizens.
“In Foreign Climes” was the subject of Mr. Hosea Sparks’ toast.
Alton’s Junius made a most eloquent address. Foreign climes are
familiar to him, and he wished to impress upon the hearers the
magnitude of the undertaking that had been accomplished by Messrs.
Sachtleben and Allen. Sparks once felt the thrill of pride while
standing at the top of the pyramids, but had anyone suggested that
they continue on their way through unknown China, and face the
hordes of Mongolians a traveler must meet, he would have replied,
“Gentlemen! That is an excellent plan, but in selecting a party to
carry it through, please count Hosea out.”
Mr. John F. McGinnis responded admirably to the toast “President of
the United States.” The subject was a little awkward to handle soon
after an election, but Mr. McGinnis deftly wove his words into a
pleasing web of non-partisan tributes to our Presidents. Messrs.
Sachtleben and Allen started on their journey during Mr. Harrison’s
administration. They carried passports signed by Benjamin Harrison,
which to them were more precious than so much gold, and in whatever
country they went, the potentates respected those words of our
chieftan with the highest regard. We are proud of our Yankee
tourists. When pluck, pure grit, and intelligence are required, the
Yankee boys were always there.
Hon. Lucas Pfeiffenberger responded to “Rising Young Men” with words
of praise to the returned tourists. The young men of the United
States fear no undertaking – not even to cross the globe on steeds
of steel. It was daring, but they accomplished it, and are now
justly proud of their success.
“The World on Wheels” came at a time when the audience needed a
little cheering. At the dead of night, Mr. William Armstrong,
although a little hoarse from electioneering, managed to make
himself heard on commencing above the resounding applause which
greeted this number. In a statesmanlike manner, he explained that
the world could not go on without wheels.
Mr. Will Sachtleben made the response to conclude the evening. It
was excellent, and will appear fully in tomorrow’s edition of the
Telegraph. At 1:20 a.m., after many others told stories and
responded to calls, the adjournment came. It was an affair of which
any citizen may feel proud.
RECEPTION AT WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, April 7, 1893
Messrs. Sachtleben and Allen were given a reception at Washington
University in St. Louis last night, where they met their old
schoolmates and enjoyed a delightful evening. Tonight they will be
tendered a reception by the Pastime Athletic Club, and tomorrow
night the grand banquet by the wheelmen of St. Louis will be given
in their honor at Tony Fausts’.
THROUGH CHINA ON WHEELS
Source: Alton Telegraph, April 13, 1893
Mr. Will Sachtleben was requested to give an account of his journey
at the banquet Tuesday night, and did so in a most interesting
narrative, which is given below:
“Upon our determination in the city of London to make the journey
through the heart of China, we went to Hon. Robert T. Lincoln,
Minister to England, and requested him to do whatever was in his
power to further our plans and asked for passports. He seemed to
think the trip would end disastrously, and the first question he
asked us was ‘do your fathers know you’re out.’ It was necessary to
tell a good old-fashioned Alton fib, and we did so gracefully. He
refused to do anything for us. We went again and laid our plans
before him, stating our determination, without success. We waited
for several days, and on the sixth visit were successful in
receiving passports and a letter to the Chinese Minister in London.
Mr. Lincoln tried to dissuade us, but seeing we were determined,
threw the responsibility on our shoulders. The note was very short,
and told of our intended trip, requesting to do whatever he could.
He gave us a number of letters and stated who we were and what our
object was. In July 1890, we left London, going to Constantinople,
and from there to Teheran. To get to the most interesting part of
our journey, we will jump to the Chinese border. At Barkul, we spent
seven weeks learning portions of the Chinese dialects. Barkul is
situated in an oasis. From this point on, there are no made roads.
We scoured the place, getting every scrap of information possible
about the route from those who had passed over portions of it. We
drew maps locating the places to get food and water, which was very
necessary, and busied ourselves in learning as much as possible
about customs of the people we would meet. At length, having
strengthened our bicycles with telegraph wire, and getting them in
the best shape for all kinds of traveling learned from our long
experience, we left one morning bright and early. The natives of the
place crowded around, and their parting salute was simply this
(here, Mr. Sachtleben drew his hand across his throat). It was
anything but encouraging, and I speak only for myself when I say
that it was great misgivings that we continued. Through this region,
at distances of thirty miles, are huts where flour can be obtained
in exchange for silver, which we carried. We carried money from the
Chinese border in little sacks, together with a pair of small scales
to weigh them with.
We each carried two sack coverings to sleep in, a woolen sack and
one of oil cloth, which protected us from the heavy dews. When we
lay down, we drew an extra woolen covering over us and slept with
our revolvers in our hands. The trip through the desert was very
tiresome. One place we walked for twelve miles on a stretch, pushing
our bicycles through the sand, which was about a foot deep. We
succeeded in getting through the desert in safety, and were very
glad to reach the first town on the Chinese border. We were
exceedingly tired of the diet we were living on, and on our arrival
went to an inn to get breakfast. Mr. Allen fancied eggs for
breakfast, and tried every known method to make them understand what
was wanted. He failed, until finally he stood up and crowed and
imitated the flapping of a roosters’ wings. The Chinaman was much
amused and got the eggs. To conclude, I will tell of one of the
experiences we had with the Chinese. We rode into a large city and
were immediately surrounded by an excited mob of Chinamen. There had
been a great drouth, and they thought that these foreign devils were
to blame for it. They seemed bent on destroying our wheels, and we
had a great deal of trouble to make any headway. We rode quickly
into the courtyard of an inn nearby, and riding to the rear of the
structure, hurriedly placed our bicycles behind a pile of lumber,
and then piled the boards about them. Quickly mounting to the roof,
we drew our revolvers and surveyed the mass of howling Chinamen
below. We had to stay there for several hours, and at night, the
crowd dispersed, excepting a few stragglers. We then cleared the
courtyard with our revolvers, and closed the gates. They did not
bother us that night. Next morning early, the Governor sent a guard
of soldiers to bring us to the palace. The letters we carried were
satisfactory, and he immediately requested that we give an
exhibition on the wheels. We do not pretend to be expert riders, but
they were not hard to please, and in the presence of the court and
invited guests, we gave an exhibition on the lawn in front of the
palace. We had many other experiences very similar to this, which we
will put in book form. The journey to Shanghai and then to Alton is
familiar.”
Mr. Sachtleben extended his thanks to the citizens of Alton for
their excellent banquet, and expressed much joy at his return to
Alton.
Source: Alton Telegraph, April 13, 1893
A conversation with Sachtleben and Allen about the incidents that
befell them in their trip around the world is like a romance, and is
extremely interesting. This is especially true, perhaps owing to the
fact that Mr. Sachtleben was raised in Alton, and we are impressed
with the feeling that a friend passed through the dangers that were
related to a Telegraph representative. The first question that the
reporter put to the travelers was this: “In all the dangers you
passed through, did you never come to blows with the inhabitants of
those countries?” The answer came: “Yes! Many times!” He then
related an incident that occurred on the border of China. “In
arriving in a small village, we went to an innkeeper who was a large
fellow and very surly. We remained all night, and after breakfast in
the morning, weighed out on the scales we carried bits of silver,
which we knew would amply repay him. He grumbled and growled about
more, but it was of great importance that we should economize the
money we had, and accordingly we did not give in to his greed. We
started out, and were making preparations to continue our journey. A
crowd had collected, and the innkeeper was explaining to them in an
excited manner that we had not paid him enough. He came out, and
walking straight toward us demanded more money. He was a powerful
man, and grabbed the handlebars of Sachtleben’s wheel. We
expostulated, and tried in every manner to make him understand that
we would not be fooled with. At last we got made and ordered him to
get away. He paid no attention to it, and Mr. Sachtleben rushed at
him and knocked him down with a clean blow between the eyes. We knew
we were in for it now, and our blood was up. The fellow lay there
and made no attempt to rise. Two other large Chinamen who were with
the innkeeper came stealthily up and the fight commenced. We are not
pugilists, but we can hold our own with Chinamen, and after a hard
fight we both succeeded in getting the better of our man, and had
them on the ground. We drew our revolvers and fully determined to
fight for our lives. It is a peculiar custom of a Chinaman that if
he is conquered, and is once on the ground, he covers his face and
accept your kicks without resistance. A crowd had collected, and
another fellow who evidently was a leader was trying to lead them
on. It was getting serious, and I (Mr. Allen) had fully determined
to shoot him. When within a few feet, he suddenly fell to the
ground, and his companions did the same. They came worming their way
to where we were, and we were just going to mount when they would
stretch out their arms and hold the wheels. It was exasperating, and
we just leaned over and knocked them senseless with the butts of our
revolvers as fast as they touched our bicycles. At last, we got an
opportunity, and were off like a flash.
One night while in Turkey, we reached a mountainous country, and
arrived after dark at a tavern in the mountains. The keeper said
that there was no room but that we could sleep in a small stable
near the house. We went in, and finding some straw, covered the
floor, and on it prepared a bed for the night. The place had a
miserable door with no latch, and after lying down we felt anything
but secure. We slept with our revolvers in our hands, and late in
the night I was awakened by a slight noise. About the inn were a
number of disagreeable-looking hostlers, and I felt very uneasy.
Laying quiet, I waited, and in a few moments the noise was repeated
and a dark form crouched in the doorway and stole quietly in. I
waited until I was sure of his motive, and raising up asked, ‘Who’s
there?’ He arose quickly, and with one bound was gone. He evidently
thought we had lots of money and was going to steal it. We slept but
little more that night, and the next day left bright and early.”
RECEPTION AT ACADEMY OF SCIENCE
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, April 18, 1893
Messrs. Allen and Sachtleben were tendered a reception at the
Academy of Science in St. Louis last night. After giving an account
of their journey to a large attendance, they were plied with
impromptu questions for over an hour. The audience was delighted.
LEAVING FOR NEW YORK
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, May 9, 1893
Mr. W. L. Sachtleben left today for St. Louis. It is his intention
to start tomorrow, in company with his companion, Mr. Allen, for New
York, on bicycles. They will be accompanied on their first day’s
journey by a number of cyclists from St. Louis. If the roads are not
in good condition, the starting may be delayed a day. The trip will
cover about 17 days. Mr. Sachtleben gives assurance that it will be
a pleasure to give an account of their trip round the world in
Alton, and that the date of the lecture will probably be some thirty
days hence.
ARRIVAL IN WEST VIRGINIA
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, May 24, 1893
Allen and Sachtleben arrived yesterday in Wheeling, West Virginia,
where they were received in a royal manner by the cycle clubs of
that city. They left last night on their journey to New York.
LEAVING NEW YORK
Source: Alton Telegraph, August 03, 1893
Allen and Sachtleben, the renowned cyclers, will leave New York City
in a few days for their homes. They will visit Chicago enroute, and
spend about a week at the fair, where they will be received properly
by the Chicago clubs. The Centary Magazine has made flattering
offers for their account of the renowned trip through Asia, and
although the contracts have not been signed for publishing the work,
and the decision of the wheelmen will be made later on, it is
probable that their trip will be published in that magazine. The
manuscript of the young men is highly satisfactory to the publishers
to whom it has been submitted.
FATHER OF WILL SACHTLEBEN HAS NARROW ESCAPE
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, August 18, 1893
Mr. William Sachtleben Sr. lost a valuable horse last night by
drowning in the river at the foot of State Street. Mr. Sachtleben
drove the horse into the water to wash the vehicle, when the animal
got into deep water and drowned. The vehicle was saved. Mr.
Sachtleben had a narrow escape.
ALLEN AND SACHTLEBEN LECTURES
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, January 17, 1894
The public at large will be glad to know that Messrs. Allen and
Sachtleben will commence a lecture tour in the near future, and
narrate their thrilling experiences on the bicycle trip through the
heart of Asia. Both young men are perfecting themselves for the
lecture, and those who attended the banquet given in their honor at
Hotel Madison will remember that they are both pleasing speakers,
with strong personality, and can entertain an audience in a manner
that will ensure success in their new work. As an adjunct to their
lecture, Mr. W. M. Thomson will present stercopticon views of the
kodak pictures taken along the route, and to say that these will be
highly interesting is putting it mildly. It is understood that Mr.
W. M. Sauvage, manager of the Temple Theater, will control and do
the routing from Alton.
WILL SACHTLEBEN WILL SEARCH FOR FRANK LENZ
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, January 24, 1894
Mr. Will Sachtleben, who went to Chicago Tuesday to confer with the
president of The Outing about making the trip into Asia in search of
Frank Lenz, returned this morning. Mr. Sachtleben is well pleased
with the idea, and unless something presents itself to make him
change his mind, he will make the trip. The plans are to go into
Armenia, follow every clue, and determine the fate of Lenz. A party
of five men on horseback will accompany him through portions of the
trip. Mr. Sachtleben is of the opinion that Lenz is past being
found, but his fate may be determined, and he hopes to find the clue
in the shape of clothing or the wheel. He is enthused with the
prospect, and anxious to go. The Outing will pay well, and will
receive the articles from Sachtleben to complete Lenz’s story.
Mr. Sachtleben says if he undertakes the trip, his future career
will be devoted to visits to foreign lands and the writing of books
of travel. He will write a book on Armenia, the recent troubles, and
every phase of life.
CYCLERS VISIT TO MOUNT ARARAT
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, June 11, 1894
The following, descriptive of Messrs. Sachtleben and Allen’s trip up
Mount Ararat, is taken from the June Century:
“Mount Ararat has two tops, a few hundred yards apart, sloping, on
the eastern and western extremities, into rather prominent
abutments, and separated by a snow valley or depression, from 50 to
100 feet in depth. The eastern top, on which we were standing, was
quite extensive, and thirty to forty feet lower than its western
neighbor. Both tops are hummocks on the huge dome of Ararat, like
the humps on the back of a camel, on neither one of which is there a
vestige of anything but snow. There remained just as little trace of
the crosses left by Parrot and Chodzko as of the ark itself. We
remembered the pictures we had seen in our nursery books, which
represented this mountain top covered with green grass, and Noah,
stepping out of the ark in the bright, warm sunshine, before the
receding waves, and now we looked around and saw this very spot
covered with snow. Nor did we see any evidence whatever of a former
existing crater, except, perhaps, the snow-filled depression we have
just mentioned. There was nothing about this perpetual snow field,
and the freezing atmosphere which chilled us to the bone, to remind
us that we were on the top of an extinct volcano that once trembled
with the convulsions of subterranean heat.
The view from this towering height was immeasurably extensive, and
almost too grand. All detail was lost – all color, all outline, even
the surrounding mountains seemed to be but excrescent ridges of the
plain. Then, too, we could catch only occasional glimpses, as the
clouds shifted to and fro. At one time they opened up beneath us,
and revealed the Aras valley with its glittering ribbon of silver at
an abysmal depth below. Now and then we could descry the black
volcanic peaks of Ali Ghez, forty miles away to the northwest, and
on the southwest the low mountains that obscured the town of
Bavazid. Of the Caucasus, the mountains about Erzerum on the west,
and Lake Van on the south, and even of the Caspian Sea, all of which
are said to be in Ararat’s horizon, we could see absolutely
nothing.”
ON HIS WAY TO GERMANY
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, June 16, 1894
Last Thursday evening the Mannerchor enjoyed a pleasant social time
at Paul’s Hall. The party was given by Mr. William Sachtleben, who
was on the ocean at the time on his way to Germany, to keep in
remembrance one of their number, who was separated from them by
hundreds of miles. Refreshments were served, and a splendid time was
had.
SACHTLEBEN ON HIS WAY HOME
Source: Alton Telegraph, September 13, 1894
Mr. William Sachtleben has arrived in London, England, on his way
home from Germany, and is expected to arrive here in about ten days.
MAY BE EXPELLED FROM CYCLING CLUB
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, September 21, 1894
The Victor Cycling Club of St. Louis debated, loud and long, last
night, as to whether they would expel our young fellow townsman,
William L. Sachtleben, because in an interview in a newspaper he had
said the club was a “drinking club.” The discussion brought out the
fact that the morals of the club are very much like what
Breckenridge said of the balance of the male population of the
bluegrass region. One member charged that by the bylaws, members
could be expelled for immorality, and that if Mr. Sachtleben was
expelled for saying the club was a “drinking club,” others would be
expelled for immorality. “Oh, pshaw!” said Mr. Louis V. Stevens, “If
you are going into the immorality of the members of the club, it
will take you all night.” Another said that “Mr. Miedner,” who was
charged with immorality, “was no more immoral than any other
member.” That it would be a good club for Mr. Sachtleben to get out
of even by expulsion, all will agree.
WILL APPEAR BEFORE CYCLING CLUB
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, October 11, 1894
Mr. Will Sachtleben will appear tonight before the Victor Cycling
Club directors in St. Louis in open meeting, to set matters right
with the members of the club. Mr. Sachtleben became disgusted with
the tough element which was admitted, and declined to take part with
them owing to their beer-swilling propensities and general rowdyism.
He is determined to prove what he said, and will stand trial rather
than resign to please this element. He has a host of warm friends in
the club who side with him, and take their stand against the
promiscuous admittance of toughs in the membership.
SACHTLEBEN EXONERATED
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, October 12, 1894
Mr. Will Sachtleben appeared before the Victor Cycling Club in St.
Louis last night, to stand examination for statements which it wa
claimed reflected on the club. In the presence of an immense
assemblage, Mr. Sachtleben stated that what he had heretofore said
had been falsely misrepresented by certain parties. He took the
stand that whatever he said had no reflection on the club as a
whole, but on certain members who got drunk and were far from
respectable. He was prepared to prove what he said. The directors
and a majority of the club members exonerated Mr. Sachtleben, and
the tough members have now been called to answer charges for their
offenses.
A WORLD GIRDLER IN DISTRESS
Source: Alton Telegraph, December 13, 1894
Frank G. Lenz, a Pittsburg bicycler, undertook to make a trip
through Asia, following the route of Allen and Sachtleben. He
reached Tabriz, Persia last April, and disappeared. Not a word has
been heard from him since, and it is believed he is a victim of the
Armenia outrage at Bitlis, Turkey, and has been killed by the Kurds,
a tribe infesting that section. Mr. Will L. Sachtleben yesterday
received a letter from the committee organized in Pittsburgh, to
make a search for Lenz, asking him to give all possible information
of people along the route from whom cablegrams would probably
receive attentions. Mr. Sachtleben will send the names of several
people with whom he came in contact.
LETTER FROM SEARCH COMMITTEE
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, January 5, 1895
Mr. Will Sachtleben received a letter yesterday from a member of the
Lenz search committee, stating that the committee had given up all
hope of finding Lenz alive. Through the efforts of this committee,
Lenz was traced to a certain dangerous pass about 100 miles from
Erzerroom, where all traces of him are lost. Mr. Sachtleben, which
asked for information regarding the country named this very pass as
an extremely dangerous one, infested with cutthroats. It is a
mountainous region, very wild, and a locality noted for its danger.
Messrs. Allen and Sachtleben passed through it, and can more fully
appreciate poor Lenz’s situation.
TO SEARCH FOR LENZ
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, January 16, 1895
Mr. Will L. Sachtleben of Alton is negotiating with the publishers
of The Outing, to make a trip through Asia in search of Frank Lenz,
the Pittsburg youth who, it is feared, lost his life during the
Armenian massacre. Frank Lenz has been missing since July. He was
making a bicycle trip for The Outing, and was wending his way alone
across the semi-barbarous portions of the continent of Asia. The
last word from Lenz was received by The Outing in July. He was at
that time about to enter a mountainous region between Erzeroum and
Sivas, about 600 miles from Constantinople. The country was worked
up with internal trouble and differences, which finally ended in the
awful massacre of Christian Armenians at the hands of the fanatic
Mohammedan Turks. The condition of the local affairs was most
unfavorable to Lenz, and it is almost certain that when about to
complete his journey, having passed through Southern China, India,
and Persia, he met his death in the domains of the Turkish Empire.
The Outing was accused of lacking in feeling towards Lenz, who was
making the trip for that paper, but it was evident that the
publishers were doing all they could to locate Lenz, and that they
were unable to secure anything that gave them any clue. Mr.
Sachtleben, for the past two months, has been giving whatever
information he could regarding the country to the search committee
of Pittsburg citizens. Mr. Sachtleben recently received a
proposition from The Outing, urging him to make the search, which
will consume seven months. The paper offers good remuneration and
aid. He left last night for Chicago, to more fully consider the
plans of the journey and the conditions under which it is to be
made. The journey is hazardous, but Mr. Sachtleben will accept if
they will somewhat increase their offer of remuneration.
TRIP TO ARMENIA
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, January 17, 1895
Mr. Will Sachtleben, who went to Chicago Tuesday to confer with the
president of The Outing about making the trip into Asia in search of
Frank Lenz, returned this morning. He is well pleased with the idea,
and unless something presents itself to make him change his mind, he
will make the trip. The plans are to go into Armenia, follow every
clue, and determine the fate of Lenz. A party of five men on
horseback will accompany him through portions of the trip. Mr.
Sachtleben is of the opinion that Lenz is past being found, but his
fate may be determined. The Outing will pay well, and will receive
the articles from Sachtleben to complete Lenz’ story.
ON HIS WAY TO ARMENIA
Source: Alton Telegraph, March 7, 1895
Mr. Will Sachtleben left last night on his journey. He received the
anticipated dispatch Wednesday, and left that night on the Big Four
at 8:40 o’clock. He received the dispatch in St. Louis, and came to
Alton to say the parting words with his family and friends. A large
crowd gathered at Union Depot and gave him an ovation as the train
moved. Out. He will reach New York Friday. Saturday he will sail on
a French line steamer for the Mediterranean. He is supplied with
passports and credentials, which should carry him through
successfully. Will’s popularity in his native town was at its height
last night. His display of nerve at undertaking such a perilous
trip, and his undaunted determination were admired by all present.
He expressed himself as having nothing to fear, and started out on
his journey with a cheery “goodbye.”
Frank Lenz, the Pittsburg youth who was sent out to make a trip from
China through India to Constantinople, was murdered or imprisoned on
the Armenian frontier, the last word having been received from him
last April. The Outing naturally felt that a search trip was the
only means by which his fate could be determined, and Mr. Sachtleben
was chosen for the undertaking. He will go alone, the idea of a
companion having been abandoned by The Outing. In Constantinople, he
will secure the services of a single guide, but as he proceeds, he
will employ a bodyguard. The entire success of the trip rests with
Will, and Altonians will join with the Telegraph in wishing him
success.
ON BOARD THE STEAMER
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, March 23, 1895
Mr. W. L. Sachtleben started on the French line steamer, “La
Champagne,” for his trip to Armenia. The Outing denies that the
mother of Frank Lenz accuses them of not making a diligent effort to
find her son. That the journey is attended with danger is shown by
the following from London: “At present nothing can be done. No one
is allowed in the country, and although some newspaper
correspondents have ventured there, our agent feels sure that they
will be turned back. We will let you know the result of the
investigations of the missionaries and other as soon as possible.
Your truly, Thomas Cook & Son.”
AID FROM THE TURKISH GOVERNMENT
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, May 9, 1895
A dispatch from Constantinople says that the U. S. Minister, Mr.
Alexander W. Terrell, has obtained from the Turkish government
instructions for the Governor of Erzeroum to facilitate the mission
of William A. Sachtleben, who is in search of the missing Frank
Lenz. Mr. Sachtleben will now probably push into the interior of
Armenia.
EXPECTS TO BE IN DANGER SIX WEEKS
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, May 22, 1895
Mr. Will Sauvage is in receipt of a letter from W. L. Sachtleben,
which states that at the time of writing, he was preparing to push
into the interior of Armenia, with passports that are all but
worthless, and that the next six weeks will subject him to extreme
dangers. The American Minister at Constantinople refused to assist
Mr. Sachtleben in any way, and he has this to say of him: “He is
thoroughly incapacitated to discharge the duties of the office, and
it is a mystery how the U.S. ever gave the appointment to such an
ignorant fellow.” Mr. Sachtleben found out some of the details of
the Minister’s actions, and is determined to publish them upon his
return to America. He says he is in possession of facts that he is
certain would lead to the Minister’s recall. After spending four
weeks in vain attempts to get aid from the U.S. Minister, aid which
was due to an American and Which was nothing more than courtesy, he
determined to act for himself.
An edict recently published prohibits foreigners from entering
Turkish territory in Asia. They are forbidden to set foot in
Armenia. By a ruse, Mr. Sachtleben procured passports which, while
not just what he wanted and subject to be forfeited to any resident
pasha, will aid him to a degree at least. He says he will be
subjected to extreme danger for six weeks. He is certain Frank Lenz
is dead, shot either by Kurds or Turkish officials. The soldiers are
fierce and relentless, and are not to be trusted even in times of
peace. When foreigners are forbidden in their territory, they would
not hesitate long before using their knives. Mr. Sachtleben has
shown that he acted as a diplomat to secure even the passes that he
possesses. He is not daunted, and will go right into the hotbed of
the troubles to remain six weeks. Within this time he will ascertain
whether further search would be of avail. He expects to be home in
September.
Mr. Sachtleben has another trip in view. While in Vienna recently,
he made the acquaintance of a famous Austrian explorer, who is
fitting out an expedition to leave for the North Pole in the summer
of 1896. He was asked to join the party, and has consented,
providing he can make suitable arrangements. He hopes to go as the
American representative with the party of fifteen, who will
represent different nations.
Sachtleben Arrives at Erzeroum
Constantinople, May 21 – Advices received here from Armenia say that
the names of five Kurds, who are said to be the murderers of Lenz,
killed while attempting to ride around the world on a bicycle, are
known. It is announced that William A. Sachtleben, who has gone in
search of the missing bicyclist in the hope of recovering his body,
or obtaining definite information as to the cause of his
disappearance, has arrived at Erzeroum.
FATHER WILL TOUR EUROPE
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, June 13, 1895
Mr. William Sachtleben Sr. will leave for Europe the latter part of
this month. He will make a tour of the southern part of the
continent. Mr. Sachtleban has hopes of joining his son, William Jr.,
in Italy in July or August. No recent word has been received from
the latter, and none is expected for several weeks. Circumstances
may prevent him from returning before September.
MURDERERS OF LENZ FOUND
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, June 20, 1895
Will Sachtleben now writes that through the American Minister at
Erzeroum he has discovered the Khurdish chief who planned the murder
of Frank Lenz, the Pittsburgh cyclist. He has well founded
suspicions as to the five men who did the deed. Will says he would
like very much to have the men placed under arrest, but as the power
is all in the hands of the Moslems, it is not probable that he will
dare attempt any such course. Christians are hated thoroughly, and
their lives are in danger even when friendly relations exist. He
states that he had a hard time to reach his destination, and that
only three of the score or more that have tried to reach Erzeroum
have succeeded.
NAMES KNOWN OF MURDERERS OF LENZ
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, June 27, 1895
U. S. Minister Terrell, having received trustworthy information that
Lenz, who was making a tour of the world on a wheel, in the interest
of an American periodical, was murdered near Bahar by six Kurds,
whose names are known, has made vigorous representations to the
Porte demanding the immediate arrest and punishment of the
criminals. The Porte has promised to comply with the American
Minister’s request. In the meantime, the U.S. government, having no
Consul at Erzeroum, Sir Phillips Currie, British Embassador to
Turkey, has given permission to Mr. Graves, the British Consul at
that place, to take the matter up in accordance with the wishes of
Mr. Terrell.
KHURDISH CHIEF PLANNED THE MURDER
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, June 20, 1895
Will Sachtleben now writes that through the American Minister at
Erzeroum, he has discovered the Khurdish chief who planned the
murder of Frank Lenz, the Pittsburgh cyclist. He has well founded
suspicions as to the five men who did the deed. Will says he would
like very much to have the men placed under arrest, but as the power
is all in the hands of the Moslems, it is not probably that he will
dare attempt any such course. Christians are hated thoroughly, and
their lives are in danger even when friendly relations exist. He
states that he had a hard time to reach his destination, and that
only three of the score or more that have tried to reach Erzeroum
have succeeded.
TURKISH OFFICERS SAID TO HAVE KILLED LENZ
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, July 11, 1895
From Pittsburg, July 5 – Another letter confirming the death in
Armenia of Frank Lenz, the Pittsburg wheelman who was making a tour
around the world, has been received here by T. P. Langhanz from a
missionary in Asia Minor. The name of the missionary is not given,
because his life would be endangered if the Turkish government
should learn that he was working on the case. The missionary is
working with Sachtleben who was sent out in search of Lenz. The
latter states that they have discovered that Lenz was murdered by
Turkish officers high in the service of the Sultan, and for that
reason the work is attended with great danger. The bell of Lenz’s
bicycle was found at Teharouk. His mirror, mail box, and another box
which he is known to have carried, were found in the river between
Shamia Musersta, while the tires of his wheel were discovered at
Tchelkui, where a Kurd was using them for a saddle girth. The letter
states further that Sachtleben could find the remains of Lenz if it
was safe to undertake the work, but owing to the high standing of
his murderers, the task is too dangerous, and further investigations
will have to be abandoned unless the government of the United States
interferes and gives protection.
PROPOSES A SEARCH OF KURDISH HOUSES
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, August 16, 1895
Minister Terrell at Constantinople has sent a dispatch to acting
secretary Adee, regarding the mission of Mr. W. L. Sachtleben of
Alton, who was sent to examine into the circumstances of the death
of Frank Lenz. Mr. Sachtleben proposes to penetrate the territory of
the Kurdish brigands, and by a personal inspection of their houses,
search for evidence to locate the murderers of Lenz, and to find
where his body lies if possible. He has asked the Turkish government
for a detachment of soldiers.
LETTER FROM WILL SACHTLEBEN
Written to William M. Sauvage
Source: Alton Telegraph, September 5, 1895
“My Dear Sauvage: Your letter of July 9 has been received. The same
mail that brought it yesterday contained no less than eight letters
to me, all very important to the subject in hand. I telegraphed to
the U.S. Minister at some length yesterday, and sent a small cable
to America in search for Lenz. My only difficulty in this case thus
far has been the lack of support from our Minister at
Constantinople. I received a long letter from him today, in which he
says he has no army or navy to back up the three demands I have
made, viz: Immediate arrest, trial and punishment of murderers
(whose names I have long ago sent) the dismissal of the officials
guilty for the death of Lenz either from negligence or willful
inaction, and the payment of an indemnity of $50,000. Our present
Secretary of State, Richard Olney, seems to be a man better fitted
than was Gresham, to see that American prestige is upheld in Turkey,
and I have strong hopes of yet seeing all three demands obtained as
they should be. For all are within the usual mode of conducting
foreign relations with Turkey. For some weeks now, I have been
waiting to see the Turkish government take the proper steps to act
on the information I have secured, in spite of their objection. You
have no idea how different one must proceed here to obtain justice
to the American method. The Turkish government will actually not
give any justice unless force is used or vigorously threatened. And
just now, the all-absorbing topic of Armenian reform measures being
forced upon the Sultan by England, France, and Russia, consumes all
the Porte’s time, and minor questions suffer in consequence in a
country where everything moves slowly. It is impossible for me to
tell definitely when I shall return. But, if necessary, my return
journey can be very quickly made. I shall push the thing along as
fast as I can to completion, you may rest assured; but at the same
time, I do not want to leave a stone unturned to make a thorough
success of this ere I retrace my steps westward. I shall let you
know as soon as I can, as I am quite as anxious as you are to be
back in good season for a lecture tour, for which I shall prepare
now as far as I can, in order to step right into the work on
arrival. If possible, I’ll try to reach New York early in December,
but I cannot now set a date. As soon as I can do so, I will. With my
sincere regards, I am Yours Sincerely, W. L. Sachtleben.”
THE MURDERERS
Source: Alton Telegraph, November 14, 1895
Eleven Kurds, charged with the murder of Frank G. Lenz of Pittsburg,
Pennsylvania, who started to ride around the world on a bicycle and
disappeared in Armenia, have been arrested and taken to Erzeroum, in
order to be tried there in the presence of the British Consul, in
the absence of the American Consul, their arrest being to a certain
degree due to the search which Mr. William L. Sachtleben made for
the missing rider, who represented a New York publication. It will
be seen that Mr. Sachtleben’s mission into the interior of Armenia
has borne fruit, and that an attempt is to be made to have justice
meted out to the murderers of Lenz.
RETURN POSTPONED DUE TO DANGEROUS CONDITIONS
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, December 12, 1895
Mr. William Sachtleben Sr. is in receipt of another letter from his
son, Will Jr., who is now in Erzeroum, Asia, in which he states that
he will not be home as soon as he expected; that he cannot leave
Erzeroum on account of the disturbed condition of the country, and
that present conditions may continue a long time. Brigands and road
agents infest the highways. Every step taken by the innocent
traveler is full of peril, and very liable to end in death. Will Jr.
says he does not know when he can start for home with any safety to
himself.
MURDERERS ESCAPE JAIL
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, December 31, 1895
Mr. Will Sachtleben Sr. of Alton received a letter from his son,
Will Jr., who is still in Erzeroum, Turkey. Will writes that three
of the four Kurds, arrested on the charge of killing the American
traveler, Frank Lenz, had escaped from jail, and that there was
little hope of finding them, or having them brought to justice. It
will be seen that all the perils and privations passed through by
our plucky fellow townsman have counted for naught, and he is,
himself, at present in an extremely perilous position. Long before
this time, he was to have been back home, and on January 1 he
counted on being able to start on a lecture tour.
WHERE LENZ WAS KILLED
Source: Alton Telegraph, February 20, 1896
Mr. H. A. Canfield of St. Louis is in receipt of a letter from Mr.
Will Sachtleben, which gives some interesting information concerning
the death of Frank Lenz. The letter gives an account of the search
of Khazar Semonian, an Armenian dectective, for evidence of Lenz’s
murder. Semonian declares that from information collected on the
spot, and from various investigations made in the district, he is
convinced that Lenz was seized and murdered by Kurds in May 1894, at
the ford of the stream Hopuz, about six miles distant from
Tchelkani.
ON HIS WAY HOME
Source: Alton Telegraph, March 12, 1896
Mr. William Sachtleben Sr. has received a letter from his son, Will
Sachtleben Jr., in Erzeroum, Turkey. At the time of writing, he was
still in Erzeroum and in good health. He stated, however, that in
about two weeks he would be ready to leave for home, and as the
letter was written some five weeks ago, Mr. Sachtleben thinks that
his son is now on his way home. If everything goes on all right,
Will Jr. will be home within a month.
SAILED FROM ENGLAND
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, April 14, 1896
Mr. Will L. Sachtleben sailed from England yesterday for New York.
He will spend a week in New York on his arrival, and is expected to
arrive in Alton May 01.
IN NEW YORK
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, April 20, 1896
Mr. Will Sachtleben of Alton, who has been absent in Armenia for
about one year, arrived in New York Saturday, on the steamer, Paris.
He is expected to arrive here in Alton about May 01, as some details
ofhis business cannot be arranged until that time. Will long ago
severed his connection with the Eastern publication in whose employ
he first went to search for Frank Lenz. During his stay in the
domain of the Turk, he has corresponded with London publications.
Under the management of Mr. William Sauvage of Alton, Mr. Sachtleben
will deliver a few lectures this season, and will make a tour of the
country next season.
SACHTLEBEN AT HOME IN ALTON
Source: Alton Telegraph, April 30, 1896
Mr. Will Sachtleben arrived home last night after an absence of over
a year in Armenia. He came home at once on his arrival in St. Louis,
and for a while will rest quietly here to recover from the effects
and fatigue of his dangerous trip. He has not changed much in
appearance, the reports reaching here being much exaggerated, and
aside from a swarthy hue to his complexion and a worn look, he is
the same in appearance as when he left Alton for Turkey. During his
absence, he had many, almost hair-breath escapes from assassins’
bullets, and it is a miracle that he ever reached this country. He
has agreed to write a series of articles for the St. Louis Republic,
and has canceled all his lecture engagements for this season, owing
to the hot weather. All of the cities where he had engagements for
this season are booking him for next season as fast as he cancels
this year’s engagements.
HOME AGAIN
Source: Alton Telegraph, April 30, 1896
Mr. Sachtleben set out from his home in Alton for Erzeroum, on March
5, 1895. The primary object of Sachtleben’s trip to Armenia is a
familiar story to everyone in Alton. Suffice it to say that he went
to Turkey to establish beyond a doubt that Frank Lenz, a young
Pittsburg cyclist, who had been traveling around the world on a
bicycle in the interest of a New York publication, had been
murdered. He was successful in accomplishing the purpose of his
trip, and although harassed at every step by the Sultan and his
official, he succeeded in fixing the blame on Kurds in high standing
with the Sublime Porte. The Porte, however, accused three Armenian
farmers of the crime, and notwithstanding Sachtleben’s evidence to
the contrary, the Porte established their guilt and threw them in
prison. Mr. Sachtleben was never out of deadly peril all the time of
his sojourn in the domain of the Sultan, and on several occasions,
once during the massacre of the Armenians, was almost killed by the
bloodthirsty Turks. His return was long delayed by the perils that
beset his path, but he finally succeeded in leaving the country
cursed by the rule of the Turk, and is now about to arrive home.
He had been booked to begin a lecture tour under the management of
Mr. William Sauvage, and before this was to have the lectures well
under way. He will lecture at Pittsburg on May 20, and will probably
lecture after that at Cleveland, Indianapolis, and St. Louis. During
the hot summer months, he will probably go to Danver and other large
western cities, and on the beginning of next season will start on a
regular lecture tour. It has not been decided yet whether or not the
lecture on the Armenian massacres will be delivered in Alton, but
the probability is that it will.
Mr. Will Sachtleben brought with him from Armenia a young Armenian,
Mihran M. Siesigrinaw, who is now in St. Louis with Mr. Sachtleben’s
partner, Mr. H. A. Canfield. When Sachtleben visited Erzeroum,
Mihran met him, and was of valuable assistance to the cyclist in
collecting data on subjects which he was investigating. Sachtleben
succeeded in inducing him to accompany him to this country. Mihran
says that all his energies will be bent while in this country
towards earning sufficient money to defray the expense of bringing
his brother and sister here, where they can enjoy religious and
political freedom. Several prominent church people in St. Louis have
become interested in the young Armenian’s future, and it is very
probably that he will shortly be provided with a comfortable home
and lucrative employment through their influence, so that it will
not be very long until he will be able to realize his desires. At
present, he will be retained by Mr. Canfield in making himself
useful about the bicycle store.
LECTURE IN PITTSBURG
Source: Alton Telegraph, May 28, 1896
Mr. Will Sachtleben has been prevailed upon to deliver his lecture
in Alton on the Armenian Massacres. The lecture will be delivered in
Temple Theater on Tuesday, June 9, and no doubt will prove very
popular. Mr. Sachtleben met with a popular ovation during his recent
visit to Pittsburg, the home of Frank Lenz’s mother. The theater was
beautifully decorated with flags and bunting and flowers, and Mr.
Sachtleben was presented with a handsome floral design by his new
made Pittsburg friends.
TURKISH ATTROCITIES IN ARMENIA
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, June 10, 1896
A large audience greeted Mr. Will Sachtleben at the Temple Theater
last evening, to listen to his lecture on his experiences in Armenia
during the massacres caused by the Turks, while searching for data
as to the missing Frank Lenz, the bicyclist.
Lecutres, as a rule, are anything but entertaining, sometimes,
indeed, wearisome. Not so, however, with Mr. Sachtleben’s effort
last night. Of course, the recent brutal massacres of Armenians, as
well as the murder of Frank Lenz, are still fresh in the minds of
all.
Mr. Sachtleben was introduced to the audience by ex-Mayor Brenholt,
in a few well-chosen words, and as the young man appeared on the
stage, he was very pleasantly greeted by his fellow townsmen. Mr.
Sachtleben began by saying that when anything is done by an
individual that appears of interest, the first thought is to tell of
it to friends, and therefore his appearance on the platform before
an audience of his fellow-townsmen.
Mr. Sachtleben then began his lecture, which was fully illustrated
with stereopticon views. Portions of his lecture were thrilling,
especially when he described the atrocities of the Turks in the
massacres of the Armenians. His experiences in Erzeroum, what he saw
with his own eyes, the street scenes where he saw men, women, and
children chased by armed and brutal soldiers, who shot and killed
indiscriminately, were almost beyond belief, but are only too true.
The scenes thrown on the canvas, of the dead and dying on the
streets by the scores and hundreds, only confirmed previous reports.
His relation concerning his efforts to find the murderers of Frank
Lenz were most interesting, and all regretted that so persistent
efforts were fruitless of bringing the murderers to punishment, as
after they were arrested, they were permitted to escape. Mr.
Sachtleben showed the spot on the canvas where Lenz was murdered, as
portions of his camera and bicycle were found there. The views were
excellent, and added much to the lecture.
At the close of the lecture, Mr. Sachtleben’s Armenian companion
sung an Armenian wail, composed on the massacre, and gave the
Turkish muezzin’s call to prayer and the Turk’s mode of praying five
times a day. This was quite an entertaining novelty, and pleased
everyone.
Mr. Sachtleben has a pleasant voice, and all present were happily
pleased with his first appearance in Alton. Altonians are proud of
the bravery, daring, and energy of their fellow townsman, which has
made his name a household word throughout the world.
NOTES:
Frank George Lenz (also known as Frank George Reinhardt) was born
February 15, 1867, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was the son of
Adam Reinhart (1845-1868) and Maria Anna Schritz Lenz (1841-1923).
His mother remarried to William Lenz. At the age of 27, he began a
tour by himself to go around the world on a bicycle. He was killed
in May 1894 in Turkey. His burial site is unknown.
MISCELLANEOUS CYCLING ARTICLES:
PRAYERS OFFERED FOR CYCLIST BY WHANG CHENG SUI
Source: Alton Telegraph, February 8, 1894
Mr. Charles Henderson, the genial North Alton storekeeper, receives
papers from England, and from one of them kindly cut out the
following account of a prayer offered up in China on the occasion of
the visit of the Alton bicyclers to his home some time ago. The
paper says:
“The Rev. G. B. Farthing, a Baptist missionary, sends home an
account of a prayer offered by Whang Cheng Sui on the occasion of
the visit of the two Americans, Messrs. Allen and Sachtleben, who
were on a tour round the world on bicycles. After the bicyclists had
been to the Mission Station, and given a specimen of their riding,
Wang prayed:
‘We thank Thee, our Heavenly Father, that our eyes have this day
seen the real pattern of the “self-going cart_ of the ancients. What
mysterious wisdom is Thine! How willing Thou art to impart knowledge
to men! But our sins hinder Thy revelations. How stupid have we
become through serving Satan so long! Many years have we lived, and
yet today, for the first time, have we seen this marvel of Thy
skill, which has enabled Thy servants in the West to understand.
Forgive our sins. Restore us to Thy favor. Communicate to us also
Thy mysteries; and let us share in the wonderful inventions by which
Thou doest make Thy name glorious amongst those who serve Thee. Let
us be entrusted with Thy secrets, and possess the power of the
ancients; so will all our countrymen come to know that we have found
the right path, and are servants of the true God.’
The missionary thinks it very likely that soon a prayer will provoke
a smile, but after the first shock of surprise, he bids us believe
that Whang was in red-hot earnest, and that he simply felt that he
had witnessed a miracle and was giving God the glory.
ALTON CYCLING CLUB
Source: Alton Telegraph, April 4, 1895
The members of the Alton Cycling Club of the L.A.W. held their
annual meeting Monday night. Large number of the members were in
attendance, and the election of officers was the first business
disposed of. The following were elected: President – Dr. L. F.
Schussler; Vice-President – Roy Goulding; Secretary – Charles Herb
Jr.; Treasurer – George McKinney; Directors – Emil Haagen, Hugh
Schussler, and Rand Schweppe.
The names of Messrs. Coyle, McKinney, and Schussler were presented
for Captain of cyclers, Mr. McKinney being chosen. Mr. Schussler was
selected as Lieutenant. The suits for the coming season will be
unusually stylish, and as nearly all of the members have new wheels,
the ensemble should be bon-ton. The following cvandidates were
admitted to membership last night: Messrs. John Moulton, Nate Cole,
Clark McAdams, Harold Hewitt, George Clement, and Harris Smith.
ALTON CYCLING CLUB ORGANIZED
Source: Alton Telegraph, May 03, 1894
About twenty-five enthusiastic young men with “wheels” met last
night to organize a cycling club, which is to be incorporated as the
Alton Cycling Club, and be admitted as a division post of the League
of American Wheelmen. The organization, so far as officers are
concerned, was quickly effected. The election of officers resulted
as follows: President, R. A. Haight; Vice-President, J. H. Booth;
Secretary, E. M. Davis; Treasurer, M. M. Baker; Captain, W. W.
Coyle; Lieutenant, Roy Goulding; Directors, R. A. Haight, E. M. E.
Haagen, G. A. McKinney, and G. A. Wilkinson.
The incorporation will follow. The club was addressed by Mr. George
D. Lock of Jerseyville. Mr. Lock, in behalf of the L. A. W., in a
pleasing manner, put forth the advantages of joining the league. The
club has Utopian schemes for runs to neighboring towns. They expect
to imitate the larger organizations in enjoying banquets, races,
etc., and the anticipation for “sport” is excellent.
FRENCH CYCLIST VISITS ALTON
Source: Alton Telegraph, June 7, 1894
Mr. W. L. Sachtleben, the “world girdler” cyclist, was the
recipient, last Sunday, of a visit from Mr. Eugene Fay of Nice,
France, who has just returned from a tour through California. Mr.
Fay comes from an old wealthy family in France, and is a polished
gentleman. His home is on the beautiful region of the Riviera, so
famous as a winter resort. While in California, he conceived the
idea of making a tour of Europe with a party of American bicyclers.
The trip is to be conducted in a manner similar to the many
educational trips that yearly are taken by Americans visiting the
garden spots of Europe. He will limit his party to twenty young men,
and is anxious to get a recruit from the home of his friend, Mr.
Sachtleben. This is an opportunity for some of Alton’s enterprising
young cyclists.
ALTON CYCLIST WINS RACE
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 12, 1894
Mr. Hugh Schussler, a member of the Alton Cycling Club, carried off
the laurels in the one mile race at Hillsboro on the 4th of July. He
was handicapped four hundred feet, but succeeded in winning the
race. The Alton Cycling Club should be proud of having Hugh enrolled
as one of its members.
ALTON CYCLING CLUB
Source: Alton Telegraph, August 9, 1894
Alton as a town of cyclists is by no means behind the times in its
material. The feat of Mr. Will Sachtleben in girdling the earth
stands out as prominent as the feats of the fast riders of other
cities. Four Alton boys have left, or will leave on cycles for long
trips, carrying the colors of the Alton club. In Mr. Hugh Schussler
is the promise of a fast rider, and next season, no doubt, Hugh will
win laurels for himself on the track.
Messrs. Farber and Ben Burbridge leave tonight for Jacksonville,
Florida, their future home. They will make the trip on bicycles, and
go by easy stages, enjoying the advantages of this kind of travel by
stopping at various cities along the route. Mrs. J. Q. Burbridge and
other members of the family will leave for Jacksonville in about a
month, to locate permanently.
CYCLING TOURNAMENT
Source: Alton Telegraph, October 18, 1894
The first L. A. W. meeting of the Alton Cycling Club at Chessen’s
Park [Alton] Tuesday was a pronounced success, and the young men are
jubilant. As an event of interest, it ranked with Barnum’s circus,
and financially it was a “gold mine.” Perfect weather brought a
clear blue sky, tempered breezes, and an ideal racing day. It was
the talk of weeks among the numerous Alton wheelmen what would be
the result of the Alton and Jerseyville championship race, and the
merits of Schussler, Coyle, Hodge, and McKinney were freely
discussed with supporters for each of the riders. Coyle is the
champion, winning in 2:50. He was showered with applause.
Sixteen-year-old Archie Hodge won the novice race in 2:41 ¼. On a
half-mile track with heavy grades, this record is a daisy, and the
fastest of the day. His riding was one of the features of the
afternoon.
Event No. 1: One mile Novice – Open. First prize, Silk Umbrella;
second prize, box cigars; third prize, toe clips. Entries, Archie
Hodge, Clifford Coyle, G. A. McKinney, C. F. Flachenecker. Hodge and
Coyle took the lead, closely followed by McKinney and Flacheneker.
The riders remained bunched till the last eighth, where Hodge and
Coyle spurted. Hodge crossed the tape winner in 2:41 ½, ten yards in
front of Coyle. McKinney third, Flachenecker fourth.
Event No. 2 – Half mile open. First prize, L.A.W. charm; second
prize, bicycle shoes; third prize, scarf pin. Of the 11 named, only
three entries were made, E. E. Anderson, G. A. Maxwell, and David
Coburn. Maxwell led from the start, and Anderson spurted too late.
Maxwell won in 1:34 ½, Anderson second, Coburn third.
Event No. 3 – Two Mile Handicap. First prize, diamond ring; second
prize initial ring; third prize, sweater. Entries, E. E. Anderson,
scratch; B. F. Clegg, 250 yards; Archie Hodge, 250 yards; Hugh
Schussler, 250 yards; G. A. Maxwell, scratch; D. Coburn, 120 yards.
This race was one of the finest of the day. The boys paced uneasily
in their long robes, and when the bell tapped, the wraps were cast
aside, and the studies in blue, red, striped yellow and orange
looked robust. The men were carefully placed. The first row of
wheelmen were way around the turn where Schussler, Coyle, Clegg, and
Hodge “toed the mark.” At the crack of the pistol, they were off. At
the first time past the judges’ stand, Coyle and Hodge were leading
McKinney and Schussler. Coburn was well up, and Maxwell and Anderson
hard at work cutting down their handicaps. At the second tap, Coburn
was in the bunch of Alton riders. The next turn brought him a
hundred yards ahead of Coyle, who was 50 yards in the lead of Hodge,
the next man. Anderson and Maxwell were at work. They fairly crawled
on their field. Coyle’s beautiful riding elicited much comment. He
hung on hard, and when they came to the last turn, he was way in
advance of the Alton riders, and 20 yards from Coburn. At the last
eighth, Anderson mowed down the field, caught Coyle within a hundred
yards of the wire, but could not reach Coburn, who won in 5:03 3-5,
Anderson second, Coyle third. The others finished Hodge, Clegg,
Maxwell, and Schussler.
Event No. 4: Jerseyville – Alton championship; gold medal. Entries –
Hodge, Coyle, Schussler, McKinney. Coyle was never headed. In the
prettiest style he finished winner, closely followed by Hodge,
McKinney third, Schussler fourth.
Event No. 5 – Quarter mile open. First prize, racing suit; second
prize, dozen photographs; third prize, box cigars. Only three men
entered, Coyle, Maxwell, and D. Coburn. When the riders came up the
hill, Coyle was ahead pumping like a steam engine and setting a hot
pace. He led to within a hundred yards of the wire, when the two
cracks he rode against spurted. Maxwell won in 35 seconds, Coburn
second, Coyle third.
Event No. 6 – Five-mile handicap. First prize, diamond scarf pin;
second, cuff buttons; third, bottle perfumery; fourth, pair of kid
gloves. This was the race of the day, for which the best prizes were
offered, and was a wind tester. In this event, McKinney showed up
well. The entries were: E. E. Anderson, scratch; W. F. Gillham, 400
yards; Archie Hodge, 650 yards; Schussler, 550 yards; McKinney, 650
yards; D. Coburn, 275 yards. Hodge and McKinney set the pace for the
leaders. At the third lap, Anderson caught Coburn, and the two set
about to pace one another and catch the bunch who had a long lead.
McKinney stuck like glue and wheeled strong. He tired the Alton
field, and made the scratch men work. Coburn and Anderson had the
race, it was evident. On the ninth lap they appeared railing just in
behind the bunch. Gillham had been riding easily behind the Altons.
He determined to make his spurt soon, and at the first turn on the
last lap, he shot ahead of the Alton riders. Anderson and Coburn
knew what he was up to, and started after him. Gillham was caught at
the last eighth. Anderson came in home like a rocket, Coburn
followed as close as he could, and Gillham hung on. Anderson won in
13:35 2-5; Coburn second, Gillham third; McKinney fourth, Schussler
fifth. Archie Hodge fell at the first turn in the last lap, and was
slightly skinned and bruised. It was a hard race, and the boys were
fagged out.
Tutsey Wilkes, Mr. Chessen’s beautiful two-year-old pacing filley,
gave a pretty exhibition. John Coburn raced a mile against Tutsey,
and won in 2:40 flat. Anderson and Coburn gave a pretty tandem
exhibition.
ALTON CYCLING CLUB
Source: Alton Telegraph, May 9, 1895
The members of the Alton Cycling Club held meeting Monday night in
the parlors of Hotel Madison. The following were admitted to
membership: John Moulton, Nate Cole, H. H. Hewitt, Harris Smith, and
William Jones of Brighton. The name of Charles Haagen was presented
with an application for membership.
It was unanimously decided to open the season with a river excursion
on the steamer Spread Eagle next Friday night, making the round trip
to Grafton. Accordingly, the following committee was appointed on
arrangements: Clifford Coyle, Emil Haagen, Harold Hewitt, George
McKinney, Carlton Hodge, and Ira Garstang. Friends of the club will
be invited to attend.