A Hidden Treasure

As I recall stepping into my late grandfather Will Palmer's dusty, oversized garage, which housed his antique business aptly named Hidden Treasures, waves of memories wash over me. My mind fills with nostalgia as I remember seeing his beloved vintage tandem bicycle—a vibrant red with white stripes, proudly bearing the Sears and Roebuck emblem. I view this bicycle as more than a mere mode of transportation; it represents my grandfather's spirit, entrepreneurial drive, and the tenacity that ran through his veins. With its two seats, the tandem nature of the bicycle serves as a reminder that success is not attained in solitude; there is always someone who provides motivation and support along the way. In the case of my grandfather, that person was none other than my beloved grandmother, Ella Palmer.

My grandparents' house in Dickinson, TX, was the epicenter of our family's history and unity. Born in 1916, Grandpa Palmer was a man of vision and ambition. He always had a unique way of inspiring those around him. He instilled in his ten children the values of hard work and determination. Being an entrepreneur in the racist South during the early 1900’s was not easy, yet my grandfather never made excuses. He not only provided for his family, but also created opportunities for others in the community.

Grandpa Palmer passed in 2011, but the tandem bicycle stands as a silent witness to the countless tales of his entrepreneurial journey. Now in my fifty-first year of life, I find myself inheriting this cherished childhood relic. The worn and weathered 1960’s bicycle has seen better days. But rather than fully restoring it to its former glory, I see an opportunity to preserve its vintage character and weave it into the fabric of our family story.

With my fifteen-year-old son, Jay, by my side, we're embarking on a restoration journey. We plan to dust off the layers of neglect, replacing only the most essential parts while leaving the weathered patina intact. As we begin the meticulous work of dismantling the bicycle, it is becoming more than a mechanical project; it is becoming a bridge to the past, connecting us to the legacy of those who came before us.

As we clean and tinker, I am seizing the opportunity to share the rich tapestry of our family history with my son. Thanks to the diligent research performed by my cousin Anthony Chapple, who has uncovered records dating back to 1804, I am able to share revealing stories of our ancestors' struggles and triumphs. With each turn of the wrench, I share tales of courage, resilience, and the importance of honoring our roots.

Once our restoration is complete, I plan to carefully hang the bicycle on the wall of my home office. It will serve as a constant reminder of my grandfather and his unwavering determination. The vintage tandem bicycle will not merely be a decoration; it will be a testament to the fact that we, too, are capable of carving our own path and leaving our mark on the world.