Harley-Davidson enthusiasts in the US have safely taken delivery of a piece of slate from the legendary marque’s spiritual home in Angus.
The engraved Angus stone is set to become part of a plaza in Sturgis, South Dakota, which later this year will host the world’s largest ever gathering of motorcycle enthusiasts at the 75th anniversary city rally.
In a proud handover to Sturgis Mayor Mark Carstensen, the engraved Carmyllie roof slate completed its 4,000-mile journey from a tiny cottage tucked between Forfar and Brechin from which the Davidson family emigrated before descendants gave their name to the famous machines.
Davidson Legacy enthusiasts in Angus completed the restoration of the Netherton cottage and it is now a mecca for motorcycle mounted pilgrims from around the globe.
The cottage was home to Sandy and Margaret Davidson, whose grandsons founded Harley-Davidson after the family emigrated to the US in the mid-19th Century.
The couple’s son, William Davidson, built ‘The Shed’ from which the first Harley-Davidson was sold in 1903.
Matt and Britney Olsen of South Dakota-based 20th Century Racing were given the honour of transporting the precious artefact to Sturgis, the roof slate having been inscribed by David McGovern of Monikie Rock Art with a message relaying its connection to the family roots.
The plaza is due for completion later this year and could draw a million visitors annually.
At the end of July, bikers from across the globe will converge on Sturgis for an annual rally which has seen the population of the city rocket from just over 6,000 to more than 600,000.
Riders enjoy roads with intriguing names including the Needles Highway, Iron Mountain and Spearfish Canyon to destinations including the Mount Rushmore memorial and Custer State Park.