Scorchers

From Scorchers to Alley Cat Scrambles coming to the Market Gallery

The amazing history of the bicycle in Toronto tells the story of the revolutionary changes to transportation in the city and how the bicycle contributed to improving our roads, liberating women and modernizing consumerism, tourism and professional sport.

The exhibit, which runs from May 20 - October 1, will feature items from the collections of the City of Toronto Culture Division, Museum & Heritage Services and the Toronto exceptional collection of historic bicycles, posters, memorabilia and ephemera. Mr. Shields, a collector for over 50 years, has donated much of his collection to the National Museum of Science and Technology in Ottawa. This exhibit is the first time that items of this scale and quality have been gathered together into an exhibit.

The Market Gallery, in partnership with the Community Bicycle Network, presents the fascinating history of the bicycle in Toronto from "scorchers" the pioneering daredevils of the 1800s to the illegal late-night "alley cat" races of today's bicycle messengers. Featuring personal histories, compelling stories and beautiful old bicycles, From Scorchers to Alley Cat Scrambles chronicles how the bicycle has influenced the social, political and economic life of Toronto residents since 1869.

Gallery hours are: Wednesday to Friday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission is free.