In an attempt to lighten the mood on this, even though I'm with Barry, baseball bats are among my weapons of choice. I thought I'd post this picture of everyone's favorite Henderson wing nut Frank Westfall. Crazy Mike Madden from the West coast took this on the road someplace out West during the Cannonball. It's just awful that someone would take somebody's stuff after all that work. I hope they catch the guy privately. Anyway, your comment about Schultz's book - I've been documenting the changes I have found in the early Detroit engines from a builder's perspective. Casting differences, etc. I have good digital photos and have documented changes occurring within specific serial number ranges. I've spoken with a couple of the top Hen guys about this. If Rich is interested, I can provide this information. I've been very fortunate to have no less than 9 single speed Detroit engines ranging from a very early 13 to late 16's and several Detroit Hen 3 speeds 17 through 19. By the way, I just read your interview with Joe Stephen (sp?) done in the early 90's. Great stuff. If I can help in any way, please contact me.
Best,
Mark
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Barry,
I spoke to Richard Morris yesterday and he told me about the situation. He has a suspect in mind but like your story, doesn't put much faith in the LAPD to help. He plans to use a private investigation company to draw the noose around this character. Then we can draw and quarter him with a series of Hendersons.
Also stolen were a restored 1920 Excelsior, minus the motor, and a restored 1916 Reading Standard.
On another note, I also spoke to Rich Schultz about reprinting his Henderson book. He'd like to do this but still with updates on the later Hendersons as he was kind of light on the post-Detroit series. I'm going to scan as much later Henderson material as I have and ship it to him, as an aid and prod. I have letters between John Scharle and Art Constantine, as well as with Cliff Pease. These should be made public to enhance our knowledge. Just need the time.
ACEdoug
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What's the deal here? There is a suspect? Who is it? Has he been beaten to
death yet? What police department is involved and are we to contact them if
offered something? Years ago I was negotiating for an Iver Johnson twin and
i told the wrong person about the deal and the engine was stolen before I
could buy what was left. I am pretty sure of who took it and it has probably
been sold off . The RCMP really seemed disinterested in the whole affair so
maybe better to keep the cops out and the baseball bats at ready if you know
who the scumbag is.
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Wow!
Though I don't know Richard well, I have made it a point to say hello to him
at the various Antique motorcycle meets, and he is without a doubt, one of
the coolest guys you could ever want to meet.
His collection is astounding and it hurts me to think that some scum bag
without a clue would violate such a great guy and such a great collection.
I live in So, Calif. so I will definitely keep my eyes peeled for those bikes.
I sure hope that they turn up fast and un harmed.
The good thing about this hobby, is that these machines are like fine art.
There pretty hard to sell without someone noticing them.
I've got my fingers crossed!
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I talked to Chuck Vogel and Richard Morris, aka "Rotten Richard" today. Early
this a.m., Richard's 1916 Hen was stolen along with his 1916 Reading
Standard and 1920 Excelsior from his building in Gardinia, CA just outside
LA. The suspect is not an antique motorcycle guy and it is likely he will try to
sell them for what he can get and hopefully not just for scrap. Matt Smith
restored the Hen for Richard. Its dark blue and in pristine condition. The '16
Reading is brown and cream and also beautifully restored. The X is olive
green, partially restored, and does not have a motor in it.
If by chance you suddenly hear that one of these uncommon machines is
available, please let Richard 310)628-4249 or Chuck 310)613-3602 know.
