Just received the April Smithsonian magazine and it includes a two page article with photos of the early 1900's Board Track racing. A fella from Illinois by the last name of VanOrder moved to California and began racing in 1911. Following and accident which cut short his racing career his wife told him if he ever rode again she was out of there, so he began photographing the sport and compiled what the article descibes as a "compelling visual record of the early motorcycle racing". The article describes how the tracks were built and how racing flourished until the mid 20's. The tracks were call "motordomes" and due to the deaths and injuries to both participants and spectators became known as "murderdomes". The photo collection has been digitally restored and is in the posession of family members. Hopefully they will be made public someday. Just thought this might interest some of my fellow "wingnuts" out there. Dan
BTR'S in Smithsonian Magazine
- Thread starter Tinsmith
- Start date
Nothing like the internet. Cool find.
The Early, Deadly Days of Motorcycle Racing | Arts & Culture | Smithsonian Magazine
The Early, Deadly Days of Motorcycle Racing | Arts & Culture | Smithsonian Magazine
This is supper cool, thanks for sharing. Does anyone know if this guys photos are up for viewing anywhere on the web other than the 2 or 3 posed in that link?
Has anyone seen a bike from "old school garage" I came across it on the pictures for the derringer bikes. What motor does it use and did he ever make additional bikes? Best regards Paul
Slightly OT, Here’s scans from a antique motorcycle restoration article in the December 1982 issue of the Smithsonian magazine...
-Kirk
-Kirk
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