1904 Indian Motorcycle

01

Artifact Overview

The Indian Motocycle [sic] Manufacturing Company was founded in Springfield, Massachusetts, as the Hendee Manufacturing Company in 1901. In the 1910s, Indian became the world's largest motorcycle manufacturer. The demand for military motorcycles during World War I, and the growth of strong competitors like Harley-Davidson, started the company's long decline that ended with bankruptcy in 1953.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Motorcycle

Date Made

1904

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

30.713.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Metal
Rubber (Material)
Leather

Color

Dark blue
Gold (Color)
Red

Dimensions

Height: 37 in
Width: 25 in
Length: 75 in
Wheelbase: 47 in
Diameter: 22 in

Inscriptions

each side of gasoline tank: INDIAN/ HENDEE MFG. CO./ SPRINGFIELD, MASS. on engine: HEDSTROM MOTOR. / 1081 / HENDEE MFG. CO. SPRINGFIELD MASS U.S.A. leather oblong box between handle bars: INDIAN surronds American Indian head: INDIAN MOTORCYCLE THE HENDEE MANUFACTURING CO. SPRINGFIELD MASS.