True Arizona Biker Established 1948: “Morris”

I met Morris just about two years ago. He strolled in with another friend of mine, Jim, who had told him about me and the little shop. Since the day I met him, he has always been so genuine—another real man from an era I wish I could have experienced. He has always been willing to tell me about his adventures in life and motorcycles. Born and raised in Phoenix, Morris has seen the city grow and evolve. He remembers when Phoenix was all desert north of McDowell Road, and when cattle ranches had a larger population than the city itself. It was a time when the Salt River ran free through downtown.

Morris age 16

The first time we met, he showed me a couple of pictures. I was amazed and shared them on the blog. About two weeks ago, he finally dug out the rest of his pictures and shared them with me. I was speechless. Morris really has some killer history in this state. He got his first 1938 knucklehead at the ripe old age of 16 in 1949. He used to run around all over Arizona, from Prescott to Nogales, Mexico, with a small gang of friends who had Indians and Harleys. I couldn’t imagine what it must have been like—dirt roads and trails. Truly amazing, I bet.

Morris sold his 1938 in 1952 for $200 when he married his wife, Virginia, so they could get a new refrigerator. That same year, he was drafted into the Army and went to Korea. He served his time as a vehicle mechanic. When he came back from Korea, he had two children and got back into motorcycles. Later on, his son caught the bug for bikes, and they shared that relationship together. In 1995, Morris tracked down a basket-case 1938 and rebuilt the bike of his youth with his son. His son sadly passed away eight years ago.

Korea

Morris has a beautiful collection of old Indians and Harleys and still loves building them. At 78, he is still going strong. His sweet wife, Virginia, is alive and well. Morris is a true piece of history in Arizona. He is a man from a time when men were men.

Thanks so much, Morris.

Love, your friend Jeremiah

Nogales, Mexico 1950