From 1896 to 1897, the United States experienced a wave of mystery airship sightings. In an early example of the UFO phenomenon, people across the country reported seeing giant airships with bright headlights flying in the night sky. 
Like later UFO phenomenon, the craft were a reflection of their time: Lighter than air, with recently-showcased-at-the-Chicago-World’s-Fair electric lights shining from their frames.
This description is 👍: “Lowery described the craft as being powered by 2 men exerting themselves on pedals. Above the men seemed to be a passenger compartment. A light was mounted on the front end of the airship. Some witnesses reported singing as the craft passed overhead.”
