Harley-Davidson kicks off construction of its museum

Held on the future Museum grounds at 6th and Canal Streets, the ground breaking was accomplished in a truly unique Harley-Davidson style: by setting aside the traditional golden shovel and instead, literally "breaking the ground" with a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. At the designated moment, legendary Harley-Davidson dirt track racer Scott Parker worked the clutch of a Harley-Davidson XL 883R Sportster motorcycle performing a burnout and sending the dirt flying off the spinning rear tyre.

The famous Harley-Davidson rumble combined with flying dirt created an atmosphere of adrenaline and excitement for the hundreds of invited guests, including state and local government officials, representatives of Harley-Davidson riders, dealers, suppliers and employees, current and past company executives, and local business and community leaders.

"With over one hundred years and millions of motorcycles behind us, Harley-Davidson has a rich history, an exciting present and a vibrant future," said Jim Ziemer, CEO of Harley-Davidson, Inc. "In the years to come, the Harley-Davidson Museum will be a centrepiece of the Harley-Davidson experience. Today's ground breaking ceremony was a unique way for us to kick off the Museum's construction."

A New Piece of the Legend: the Harley-Davidson Museum
The Harley-Davidson Museum will draw visitors locally and from throughout the world to experience the people, products, culture and history of Harley-Davidson. The Museum will also be a place where visitors from near and far can meet, share stories and enjoy the green spaces adjacent to the edge of the Menomonee River.

"The Harley-Davidson Museum will showcase the unforgettable collection of motorcycles and historical items from our Company's vast archives," said Stacey Watson, Harley-Davidson Museum director. "But even more importantly, it will celebrate the history of the Company, the passion of the riders, and the stories of the employees, dealers, and suppliers. These varied and fascinating stories are woven into the fabric of Harley-Davidson, shaping the legend and setting the stage for a bright future."

Anticipated to open in 2008, the 130,000 square foot Museum development will feature exhibit space as well as a restaurant, café, retail shop, meeting space and special events facilities.

"The Harley-Davidson Museum will offer an experience that will appeal to all visitors including both motorcycle enthusiasts and non-riders alike," said Watson. For more information, please visit the Harley-Davidson Museum Web site, www.h-dmuseum.com.