Arthur James Wilson
Arthur James Wilson ("Faed") (1858- ) was founder of the North Road Cycling Club and the prime mover of the Road Records Association. He was himself a record holder, holding records on the tandem tricycle at fifty miles and the twelve hour time trial. Later in life (1900) he is described as 'stone-deaf'
He was also the founder of the Motor and Cycle Trades Benevolent Fund.
1858 Born in London.
He educated himself after losing hearing at the age of 12.
1886 Designed the first practical tandem bicycle after a series of experiments in collaboration with Dan Albone, of Biggleswade, in whose Works the machine was constructed. This machine was quite successful, but the inventor did not persevere with it, and it was not till a couple of years later, after the “Lightning " tandem (Hall's patent) had appeared on the market, that Albone started to manufacture it commercially.
On 23rd May, 1888, Albone and E. J. Willis rode 20 miles on Paddington track in 1 hr. 5 mins. 55.8 secs. on an improved model, the connected steering having been found to be a mistake.[1]
1890 Joined the Dunlop Co. in Dublin
Brought the business to London and was Manager for 3 years
1900 Launched a tool-bag through H. Waterson.[2]
Started as advertising contractor - A. J. Wilson and Co., Ltd.
1910 Biographical information and image at Automotor Journal 19101217
1917 Writes as Hon. Sec for Hospital Arrangements for the London Volunteer Rifles
1928 retired from business