A Broken Piece of History
October 19, 2025
Source: Reddit
Once a car came crashing through the gates and drove off, it left a small piece of white plastic, broken, behind. This piece had a faint design inscribed upon it. It showed a beautifully formed bird with a spear-like beak perched on a shield — the heron logo of the Raleigh bicycle.
The heron logo of the Raleigh Bicycle Co.
The Raleigh Co. was formed in Nottingham, England, 1885. It became one of the best known names in the bicycle world. Raleigh made for itself a reputation that made it one of the leaders in the bicycle world. The heron logo suggested to the users of the bicycles speed, grace and reliability. It was used by designers in inscribing chain covers, crank arms, hub covers, etc.
This piece broken off was from a hub cover, end cap chain cover, or fender of some Raleighs built between the sixties and the eighties. Manufacturers made such parts from lightweight molded plastic. Additionally, manufacturers stamped a name on all of these parts.
A Glimpse or Snaphot of Middle Aged Cycle Design.
Bicycles of the Raleigh variety of that period, such as the Raleigh Sports or Superbe, represented a compromise between usefulness and beauty. The heron logo made itself felt on the clientele among the users and riders of Raleigh bicycles. It became a part of the bicycle at least from a visual standpoint, making an impression.
Why This Piece Meant So Much.
This small piece holds for all time the tangible spirit of a period when the bicycle meant the sense of freedom for the young and old. The heron logo of the Raleigh was a part of life. It holds in its grasp the memories of summer rides, skinned knees, and first ventures into adventure.
The Value of the Old Parts of the Raleigh Cycle.
Such parts are still sought after by collectors. They are used by those who restore and complete pieces or held as souvenirs and reminders of the past. The stamped number 31524 is an indication of an inner moulding. It signifies the design of a part but not a fully realized one.
A Symbol That Has a Meaning.
This broken piece of plastic cover, once mounted on a Raleigh quiet frame, speaks of ages of tale telling. It is a memorial to a time when designers built personality into every detail, whether large or small.