Description Premier 1891 Tandem Safety bicycle “The King of Tandem Safeties” Hillman, Herbert and Cooper were one of the earliest firms in the cycle industry, having started business in 1876. William Hillman was originally a foreman at the Coventry Sewing Machine Co, where he was associated with James Starley, George Singer and other pioneers. He was the practical mechanic of the H.H. and C. trio. William Henry Herbert (nicknamed “Tubby”) was the financial man. He was a brother of Alfred Herbert, the well-known machine tool maker of Coventry. George Beveley Cooper possessed the commercial brain, and managed the company’s London Depot on Holborn Viaduct from the time it was opened till 1891, when the Company was floated as the Premier Cycle Co. The Premier Tandem safety was first produced around 1888 and was a well- designed machine, eminently suitable for a gentleman and his lady to enjoy the advantages of cycling together. The cycle has 30-inch wheels, both fitted with mudguards. Saddles and handlebars are adjustable, and both wheels are equipped with a spoon brake. This Premier has been restored some time ago with new saddles covers and tyres. Only three of these tandems are still known to exist.
