Event celebrates history of the 'Hog'

More than 1,000 motorcycle enthusiasts flocked to the Harley-Davidson dealership Saturday on West Gourley Pike to see the Harley-Davidson Traveling Museum. \nThe museum, showcased in a 18-wheel semi-trailer, is a part of Harley-Davidson's marketing department, with its display of classic Harley bikes, memorabilia and rare archival images spanning 100 years of Harley history. The museum travels around the country, making frequent stops at Harley-Davidson dealerships and at motorcycle racing events. \nIn addition to the museum, live music and a barbecue entertained patrons on the dealership's parking lot. \n"This is Harley-Davidson's 100-year anniversary, and we're just excited to have (the museum) in conjunction with Harley Davidson's 100th," said Jeff Stevens, owner of Bloomington Harley-Davidson.\nThis year's exhibit, "A Highway through Time," is designed to educate visitors about the machines and the history behind the Motor Company's success. Included in the exhibit are 11 classic Harley motorcycles, which range from the archetypal 1913 "Silent Gray Fellow" to the revolutionary 1962 FLHF Duo-Glide model. \n"I like all the old bikes but I'd actually like to see even a little more history in the museum," said motorcycle enthusiast Gary Staton, of Morris, Ill. Staton and other bikers from the Midwest are visiting Bloomington on their way to the "boogie," an annual biker rally, which takes place in Lawrence County, Ind.\n"I've been riding since I was 12 and (Harley-Davidsons are) the only thing I've ever ridden," said Spencer, Ind., native Ed May, who brought his 12-year old daughter, Taylor, to the museum. \n"Harleys are cool," Taylor May responded. \nIt is not easy to explain why Harley is the first choice among American bikers --especially to those who do not own one. \n"It's an image. If you're into cars you like Porsches and Ferraris, and if you're into bikes you like Harleys," Ed May explained. \nThe Traveling Museum will leave Bloomington after Saturday for display at bike races in Ohio. \nAs for Harley-Davidson's 100th anniversary party, festivities will take place at its headquarters in Milwaukee during Labor Day weekend, where a crowd of about 1 million is expected.