LIKELY THE FIRST ACTION SPORTS PHOTO.


TUCKER, F.O., photographer. Albumen print p[hotograph, 3 1/4 x 5 1/2 inches (82 x 138 mm) laid down to large mount, titled on mount "Rowe on Columbia Racer Defeating Temple," image of cycling race, photographer's imprint at lower left, mild thumbsoiling to mount.EARLIEST EXAMPLE WE CAN FIND. The text below the image reads, "Finish of One Mile Professional America's Championship Race, Hartford, Sep. 13, 1888. Instantaneous Photograph." The Columbia Racer was a US-manufactured version of the high bicycle popular from the 1870s-1890s. It could reach great speeds, thanks to the size of the front wheel, but was very dangerous to ride. William A. Rowe was a champion cyclist of the era.