IMPERIAL modell 87 ladies bike: info wanted

[Velo-dream]

does anyone have info about this this ladies "IMPERIAL " bicycle ?

modell 87

thx

 

[Blue Streak]

Imperials were made by Ames and Frost in Chicago starting 1890 through 1899. 1900 became part of the American Bicycle Company. Thinking yours is at least 1900 as nameplate does not say Ames & Frost. Below are some references for Imperials and some list a Model 87. 1901 Imperials have model numbers in the 100's. Imperial model numbering system does not make a lot of sense per year. Would be good to see at least 1898-1902 catalogs to confirm if there is a numbering pattern.

November 17, 1898 issue of The Wheel:

January 12, 1899 issue of The Wheel:

April 27, 1899 issue of Bureau County Tribune (Princeton IL) - Imperial Model 87:

January 25, 1900 issue of The Wheel:

May 28, 1900 issue of New York Tribune:

June 16, 1900 issue of Democrat and Chronicle (Rochester NY) - Imperial Models 86 and 87:

August 16, 1900 issue of The Wheel:

March 20, 1901 issue of Spokane Chronicle (WA) - Models 86 and 87:

 

[Velo-dream]

thx

 

[BatWaves]

I own a Model 84 Imperial in 9.5/10 Condition. I’m also located in the same city as the ad posted above.