Advertisement
The Indiana Motorcycle Preservation Society (IMPS) is thrilled to announce the installation of an exciting new exhibit at the Grant County History Center, located at the Marion Public Library. Set to open in January 2025, this permanent exhibit will introduce the rich motorcycling history of Marion, Indiana, and its claim to fame as the "Home of the Hog." Titled “Home of the Hog: The Cornfield Classic and Marion’s Motorcycle Legacy,” the exhibit will transport visitors back to the early 20th century, immersing them in the exhilarating world of motorcycle racing during the legendary Cornfield Classic events of 1919 and 1920. These iconic races, held on Marion's dirt tracks, brought together daring riders and roaring machines, setting the stage for the area's unique place in motorcycle history.
In addition to exploring the thrilling racing conditions of the time, the exhibit will showcase the significant role Marion played in Harley-Davidson’s branding as "Hog," a term that has become synonymous with their motorcycles and community.
The exhibit’s opening program will take place on Friday, January 24, 2025, at 6pm, and will feature guest speaker Todd Armfield. Todd retired from aviation after 40 years and is a former flat-track motorcycle racer. Armfield, now a proud IMPS board member, has dedicated himself to preserving and sharing Indiana’s motorcycle heritage. “This exhibit celebrates the courage, innovation, and community that made Marion a cornerstone of motorcycle history,” Armfield shared.
The IMPS team envisions this exhibit as a growing and evolving celebration of Indiana's motorcycling roots. It will be updated regularly with items from various motorcycle collections. The society is calling on anyone with motorcycle memorabilia, especially as it relates to Indiana’s motorcycle history, to contribute to the exhibit. Whether it’s racing gear, photographs, vintage motorcycles, or other historical items, IMPS invites community members to coordinate with the organization to share their pieces of history.
“This isn’t just an exhibit for motorcycle enthusiasts—it’s a chance for everyone in Grant County and beyond to connect with a unique piece of Indiana’s heritage,” said Mike Carpenter, an IMPS representative.
For those interested in sharing items or learning more about the exhibit, IMPS would love to hear from you. Together, we can continue to celebrate Marion’s extraordinary legacy in the world of motorcycling.
Stay tuned for more updates as the opening date approaches!
Contact Information:
To share memorabilia or inquire about the exhibit, please reach out to the Indiana Motorcycle Preservation Society (IMPS) through their website, email [email protected], or social media channels.
---
The Grant County History Center is located at The Marion Public Library, 600 South Washington Street, Marion, IN.
Advertisement
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
History Center at Marion Public Library, 605 S Washington St, Marion, IN 46953-1964, United States,Marion, Indiana
