I purchased this bike from the original owner’s nephew in 2010. He said “I have a Schwinn Autocycle that was purchased by my uncle when he was a teenager. He was killed in WWII and I used it briefly as my bike in the 60’s. It has been in storage since then. I was curious if anyone knew what the value of this bicycle might be?”
I was able to track down Bill’s uncle (the original owner of the bike) on the internet. His name is Buben, James M. JR. and it shows he died in WWII as a result of DOW (died of wounds) he was a PFC (Private First Class) and he died in the South Pacific. http://genealogytrails.com/ill/cook/wwiicas.html
This bike took a village or more applicable it took “the hobby” to bring it back to its full glory. What I mean by this is there are countless people to thank for helping me with the knowledge and parts to detail and complete it correctly. I did take the liberty of adding a period correct upgrade by adding the shorty lever, cable and brake not offered in 1936.
I’m very grateful to all who helped me with this bike. It would not have been possible without you. There are truly great people in this hobby and I’ve made some life long friends. And what a great tribute to a fallen hero! It’s a privilege and honor to be the current caretaker.
Entry Submitted by mark mann
