Harry Bassett descends from #299B Samuel Bassett of Gloucester, England as follows:
Samuel Bassett and wife Sarah
Thomas Bassett (b. 1789) and wife Swindinia
Absalom Bassett (b. 1828) and wife Tryphena (White) Lowke
Harry White Birdsall Bassett (b. 1855)
Winner, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, Wednesday, 19 August 1914
Pioneer of Cycling
Mr. Harry Bassett, who claims to be the pioneer cycle builder of Australia was born at Northampton, England, and came to Victoria in the year 1881. About a month after his arrival he established his factory at 28 Elizabeth street, Melbourne. Business increased so rapidly that more accommodation was a necessity and in December, 1883, he moved into larger premises. Mr. Bassett soon established his name, and his make, the “Victory”, was eagerly sought after by the champions at that time. Mr. Bassett also took and active part in racing, being very successful. Racing on the high machines was very popular and people would travel many miles to witness the racing. Long distances were ridden then, and the riders thought very little of riding to Ballarat and Bendigo, and could climb Anthony’s Cutting, near Bacchus Marsh, and Curley Hill, at Keilor, with ease. Prices for machines ranged from £13 to £35. Mr. Bassett’s sons still carry on the business at Victoria street, North Melbourne. An invitation was extended to Mr. Bassett to start the race for the high bike championship, but he was unable to be present, being away on a trip to Queensland.
The Argus, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, Saturday, 26 December 1925
Bassett
BASSETT – On the 22nd December, at Rockhampton, Queensland, Harry W. B. Bassett, beloved husband of Anne Bassett, and father of Alice (Mrs. V. Cobb), Joe, Stanley, and Gladys (Mrs. L. Beveridge), of 14 Victoria street, North Melbourne, aged 70 years, pioneer of cycle trade. (Northampton, England, papers please copy.)
To read the original article on Harry Bassett, click on the link below.
http://www.bassettbranches.org/newsletters/2006/200611/200611.shtml