A Quick Look at the Early Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
The 75th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is underway in the Black Hills. The 2015 Rally is expected to be the biggest ever, but it's beginnings were quite humble.
- The Rally's roots are in 1938 when Clarence "Pappy" Hoel bought an Indian Motorcycle Franchise in Sturgis. He then formed the Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club and hosted the Gypsy Tour through the Black Hills .
- The first Rally was held on August 14, 1938 and was called "Black Hills Classic." It consisted of one race with participants and a small audience.
- Camping at the first Rally was in "Pappy's" back yard, behind the Indian Motorcycle Shop on Junction Avenue in Sturgis.
- "Pappy's" wife Peral fed that first group "Weenies, sloppy joes, potato salad and watermelon for dessert." All served in a tent behind the dealership.
- The Rally was quickly popular, the second year saw attendance reach 800 people.
- The Rally has been held nearly every year, with two cancellations during World War Two because of gas rationing.
- The early Rallys were focused on racing. In 1961 the Hill Climb and Motocross races were introduced.
- The first time Main Street in Sturgis was blocked off was in 1949 for an awards ceremony.
- The Rally's first vendor license was issued in 1974.