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About El Paseo del Rio Penny Farthing Club
About El Paseo del Rio Penny Farthing Club
Our Story
“Use your resources and skills to help others in ways that reflect your passions.”
That shared philosophy inspired the creation of El Paseo del Rio Penny Farthing Club in March 2026.
Founded by three active community servants, the organization was established to formalize their efforts to support the local community through cycling, environmental stewardship, and charitable initiatives.
In its inaugural year, the organization focused on:
Hosting a penny farthing “ordinary” bicycle race
Organizing bicycle chase races benefiting local hunger relief efforts
Establishing a U.S. penny farthing polo team
Leading community cleanup initiatives
Today, the organization continues to grow as a unique combination of historic cycling culture, community involvement, and public service.
OUR MISION
OUR MISION
As a nonprofit organization, El Paseo del Rio Penny Farthing Club exists to promote cycling and community health and serve as stewards to the environment.
OUR VISION
OUR VISION
Our goal is simple:
To contribute to a cleaner, healthier, and happier community.
Penny farthing bicycles naturally bring joy and curiosity to people of all ages. Through events, volunteer initiatives, and charitable efforts, we strive to turn that joy into meaningful impact throughout the Borderland region.
The History of Penny Farthing
The History of Penny Farthing
The Evolution of Human-Powered Transportation
1696
1696
Jacques Ozanam presented the concept of human-powered transportation:
“in which one can drive oneself wherever one pleases without horses.”
1817
1817
Karl von Drais of Baden, Germany created the “Draisine,” also known as the hobby horse, a two-wheeled machine propelled by pushing with one’s feet.
1862
1862
Pierre Lallement added pedals and a crank system to the front wheel, creating the velocipede.
1870-1890
1870-1890
As engineering advanced during the Industrial Revolution, bicycles evolved into the iconic high-wheel “ordinary” bicycles recognized around the world today.
Larger front wheels allowed for greater speed, while lightweight steel frames improved performance and reliability. These bicycles represented freedom, exploration, and innovation.
One of the most notable riders, Thomas Stevens, circled the globe on a high-wheel bicycle between 1884 and 1886.
1890
1890
The invention of pneumatic tires and chain-driven “safety bicycles” transformed cycling forever, creating the modern bicycle design we know today.
Even now, bicycles remain one of the most efficient forms of transportation ever created.
OUR COMMITMENT
OUR COMMITMENT
El Paseo del Rio Penny Farthing Club is committed to:
Promoting cycling and healthy lifestyles
Supporting charitable causes
Preserving historic cycling culture
Building stronger community connections
Encouraging environmental stewardship
Through every ride, event, cleanup effort, and community partnership, we aim to create a lasting and positive impact throughout El Paso and beyond.
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