Hi, I just wanted to check in and let everyone know I have been working on text and graphics for the Cleveland Welding serial number project. I am getting close to the point where I can upload some of this material, probably by late this week or early next week.
I have created a chart to document Cleveland Welding serial numbers along with other pertinent information about each of the bicycles listed. I have also prepared text and graphics that divide prewar CWC production into groups based on frame type.
In the mean time if anyone would like to add their bicycles and serial numbers to this list I suggest the following:
Photograph the bicycle and/or frame from several points.
- 1. A clear photograph of the bicycle from both the drive and off sides
- 2. A photograph of the bottom of the crank hanger showing any and all serial numbers or other marks. Include enough of the bicycle to show which direction, front to back, the numbers read. Also note your reading of the numbers and symbols; they are often hard to read even in a good photograph.
- 3. Detail photographs of the frame at junctures (in cases where these areas are not clear in the overall photographs.
- 4. Photographs of the fork, sheet metal and accessories in cases where the originality of these items is a question.
Numbers 1 and 2 are the most important to accurately build a useful list of CWC serial numbers. Generally a clear photograph of the bicycle will make it possible to relate the model and year of the bicycle to the serial number. This will also make it less likely that non CWC bicycles will slip into the data base.
Again, in an effort to build the best data base possible, I am requesting that legible photographs of the crank hanger are part of the listing process (This means I have a lot of camera work ahead of me). I have seen many CWC bicycles with several numbers and symbols on the underside of the crank hanger. Along with the serial numbers, charting the ancillary marks may lead to further understanding about CWC production.
I won?t list bicycles without a photograph of the bike. I will start the list with reported numbers to get it going but those numbers will be moved to a secondary list if photographic representation isn?t provided over time.
As I have a list of my serial numbers I will publish those first. I will add number as I receive them and update the list periodically. I have a column for ownership information if you would like that to be known publicly.
If you would like to be part of the list but wish to remain anonymous, you can send me information privately and I will only print the portion of that information you are ok with. I will extend this offer to the degree that, with documentation, I am willing to add bicycles to the list, sequentially placed, with blanked numbers if the owner so wishes.
The last point I will make for now is that my knowledge primarily revolves around prewar models, I have as much to learn about post war production as most anyone else. With documentation I will list any CWC-AMF bicycle serial number up to circa 1970 with the idea that patterns will arise to make dating postwar production possible.
Phil Marshall
I spent hours searching!
