SHELBY — Sometimes dream can become reality.

The Shelby Cycle Historical Society announced Tuesday morning it has received a grant to create the Shelby Bicycle Museum on the grounds of the original Shelby Cycle factory at the Shelby Justice Center.

The $29,000 grant includes more than $10,000 of volunteer research time, as well as $5,000 to purchase a display case, bicycle racks, and interpretive panels and murals which will tell the history of several bicycle companies that made Shelby home, as well as the other factories that were housed in the building before the bicycle factory, and the seamless tube industry that started the boom.

The display will be tied to https://shelbycyclehistory.org/ through QR codes, where visitors can find additional information.

The museum will be functional by May 2021 for RichHistory weekend, a self-guided driving tour of Richland County’s museums and other places of interest.

“In July 2021 during Shelby Bicycle Days, we will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the start of the Shelby Cycle Frame Builders, which became the Shelby Cycle Company,” stated a press release from the Shelby Historical Society. “It is hoped the project will draw tourism to Shelby and will pave the way to a more permanent exhibit.”

The historical society thanks Shelby Mayor Steven Schag, Police Chief Lance Combs and Judge Sheree Studer for allowing the use of the lobby of the Justice Center. The lobby will be open 24/7 with the security required to house an exhibit at minimal cost. 

To learn how to become involved at this link, or contact shelbycyclehistory@gmail.com.