Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum Maggie Valley
Introduction
If you're a motorcycle enthusiast, then the Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum in Maggie Valley, North Carolina, is a destination you don't want to miss. Founded by Dale Walksler in 1993, the museum is home to one of the most extensive collections of vintage motorcycles in the world.
The Museum's History
The Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum started as a private collection of vintage motorcycles and memorabilia by founder Dale Walksler. He began collecting motorcycles in the 1960s and eventually turned his passion into a museum that showcases the history of American motorcycles.
Today, the museum is home to over 300 motorcycles from different eras, along with a vast collection of historic photographs, advertisements, and other motorcycle-related memorabilia.
The Collection
The Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum boasts an impressive collection of vintage American motorcycles that spans over a century. The collection includes motorcycles from famous manufacturers such as Harley-Davidson, Indian, and Excelsior-Henderson, as well as lesser-known brands like Flying Merkel and Pope.
Visitors can expect to see some rare motorcycles as well, including the 1913 Sears, the 1914 Traub, and the 1915 Militaire. The museum's collection also includes motorcycles from the World War II era, such as the Harley-Davidson WLA and the Indian 741.
The Exhibits
The Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum has several exhibits that showcase the evolution of American motorcycles over the years. One of the most popular exhibits is the "Handbuilt by Dale" exhibit, which features motorcycles that Dale Walksler built himself.
The museum also has an exhibit dedicated to board track racing, a popular form of motorcycle racing in the early 1900s. Visitors can see some of the motorcycles that were used in these races and learn about the history of the sport.
Another exhibit is the "Military Motorcycles" exhibit, which showcases motorcycles that were used by the military during World War II. Visitors can see the motorcycles up close and learn about their role in the war.
The Experience
Visiting the Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum is an experience that motorcycle enthusiasts will never forget. The museum is open from April to November, and visitors can spend hours exploring the extensive collection of vintage motorcycles and memorabilia.
In addition to the exhibits, visitors can also watch live demonstrations of some of the museum's working motorcycles. These demonstrations give visitors a chance to see and hear the motorcycles in action.
The museum also has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and motorcycle-related merchandise.
Conclusion
The Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum in Maggie Valley, North Carolina, is a must-visit destination for motorcycle enthusiasts. With an extensive collection of vintage motorcycles and memorabilia, visitors can learn about the history of American motorcycles and see some rare and unique motorcycles up close.
Make sure to plan your trip to the Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum today and experience the rich history of American motorcycles.
