Wheelman: An Evening with Keith Pariani
Thursday, August 27 | 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Join the Lightner Museum for an evening with St. Augustine bicycle aficionado Keith Pariani as he shares the remarkable story of his recent cycling journey from the Henry Ford Greenfield Village in Dearborn, Michigan, to Independence Hall in Philadelphia.

Pariani traveled alongside five fellow cyclists, all members of a group called the Wheelmen. This monumental ride, the 2026 Golden Jubilee Tour, commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Bicentennial 1976 Highwheel Tour, a similar journey completed by 27 Wheelmen members in 1976. Each cyclist rode an authentic 1880s high wheel bicycle. Keith rode a 56-inch Victor High Wheel bicycle built in 1889, which he has owned for more than 40 years.

The Wheelmen departed from Dearborn on June 21 and arrived in Philadelphia on July 3, completing the grueling 775 miles in just 13 days.

Through stories, photographs, and firsthand reflections, Keith will recount the triumphs, challenges, and unforgettable moments of riding a 19th-century bicycle across modern America. Following the presentation and Q&A, guests will have the opportunity to explore Riding High! Vintage Bicycles from the Keith Pariani Collection, the Lightner Museum’s exhibition showcasing Keith’s remarkable collection of antique bicycles and cycling memorabilia.

$20 per person | $10 Lightner Museum Members
Members must login using their member account to receive the discounted price.

This program will begin in the front lobby of the museum. Guests should enter the building through the side courtyard located on Granada Street. Light refreshments will be served.