Indian Motocycle Day draws hundreds

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - A point of pride in Springfield history is the time of the Indian Motocycle (yes, spelled without an “r”).

On Sunday, Indian Motocycle faithful and enthusiasts flocked to the Springfield Museums. It was the third annual Indian Day, a revival of an old tradition.

Collectors beamed over their pride and joy.

But what's so special about an Indian Motocycle anyway? Butch Baer, a collector and Indian Motocycle historian explained, “Why does anyone go see a Rolls Royce, you know? It's probably the best motorcycle ever built in the world and it had a history, it's worldwide and it shipped worldwide way back into the teens.”

Indian Motocycles were the first commercially manufactured motorcycle in America. The classic bikes were made in Springfield from it's start in 1901 until 1953.

Esta Manthos was an Indian enthusiast since the beginning. She's owned every model ever made. Manthos held the original Indian Day for 25 years and eventually donated her collection to the Springfield Museums. It's because of her and her family that this celebration is back.

For Esta, nothing compares to the Indian. “Even today no one is able to duplicate the quality and simplicity and of course I will not release the trademark nor the name,” said Manthos.

People come from all over the country because of the history and quality of Indian Motorcycles.

George Derrick traveled on his Indian from New Jersey.  He said, “anyone can own a Harley, you've got to be special to own an Indian.  It's a different way of riding, it's just a unique experience is all I can tell you.”

At one time, Indian Motocycle was the largest employer in Springfield. Despite the departure, the history remains.