Kirkpatrick Macmillan Velocipede

About Kirkpatrick Macmillan Velocipede

The bicycle sculpture marks the starting point of the Kirpatrick C2C and was created by local brothers, Finn and Sam Barlow, in homage to Kirkpatrick MacMillan. As blacksmiths and innovators, they approached the project as he would have done, combining traditional blacksmithing skills with innovative design.

Hop in the saddle and share your velocipede selfie with #KirkpatrickC2C!

The blacksmith Kirkpatrick MacMillan is credited with having been the first person to put pedals onto bicycles in 1839. His actions transformed transport, leisure and sport. MacMillan was based at Keir, near Thornhill in Dumfries and Galloway. His invention was known as the velocipede but those who knew MacMillan said he called it his hobbyhorse. MacMillan was often seen riding his ‘horse’ around Dumfries and Galloway and was said to have raced the horse drawn mail coach from Thornhill to Glasgow – the bicycle won!

According to a Glasgow newspaper report in 1842, “a gentleman from Dumfriesshire bestride a velocipede” accidently knocked over a pedestrian in the village of Gorbals and was fined five British shillings. A relative of Macmillan later identified him as that gentleman.

Those keen to attempt the 250mile Kirkpatrick C2C cycling route can start their adventure from this point. The route is signposted and there are downloadable gpx files to assist riders as they make their way along the route, which mostly follows National Cycle routes 1,7, and 73. The route is most suitable to cyclists experienced and comfortable with sharing roads with cars.