The Boozefighters Motorcycle Club (BFMC) is one of the oldest motorcycle clubs in the United States, with a rich history that dates back to the post-World War II era.
Here’s a detailed history of the club: Formation and Early Years Founding: The Boozefighters Motorcycle Club was founded in 1946 by World War II veterans. The founding members included William “Wino Willie” Forkner, Joe “Tarzan” Petrock, and several other veterans who shared a love for motorcycles and a desire to continue the camaraderie they experienced during the war.
Name Origin: The club’s name, “Boozefighters,” reflects their love for drinking and having a good time. It was reportedly coined by a bartender in Los Angeles who observed their raucous behavior.
Hollister Incident (1947) Hollister Riot: One of the most famous events associated with the Boozefighters is the 1947 Hollister Riot, which took place in Hollister, California. The event, sometimes referred to as the “Hollister Invasion” or “Gypsy Tour,” was a motorcycle rally that drew a large number of bikers, including members of the Boozefighters.
Media Sensation: The event gained national attention after it was sensationalized by the media. A staged photograph published in Life magazine showed a biker sitting on a motorcycle surrounded by empty beer bottles, which exaggerated the extent of the disturbances. This event and the media portrayal contributed to the public perception of motorcyclists as outlaws.
Influence on Popular Culture “The Wild One”: The 1953 film “The Wild One,” starring Marlon Brando, was inspired by the Hollister incident. The movie further cemented the image of the rebellious biker in popular culture. Though the film’s characters were fictional, they were influenced by clubs like the Boozefighters.
Growth and Development Expansion: Over the years, the Boozefighters Motorcycle Club expanded, establishing chapters across the United States and internationally. Despite their notoriety, they remained a fraternal organization focused on riding and camaraderie.
Club Activities: The club is known for its participation in various motorcycle events, charity runs, and community activities. They emphasize brotherhood and loyalty among members.
Modern Era Legacy and Values: The Boozefighters Motorcycle Club prides itself on maintaining the traditions and values of its founding members. They continue to ride and uphold the spirit of the original club, which was about enjoying motorcycles and the brotherhood that comes with it.
Public Perception: While they were once seen as outlaws, modern Boozefighters often engage in positive community activities and work to dispel the negative stereotypes associated with motorcycle clubs.
Notable Members William “Wino Willie” Forkner: The most famous member and one of the founders, Wino Willie became a legendary figure in motorcycle culture. His leadership and persona helped shape the identity of the club.
Conclusion The Boozefighters Motorcycle Club has a storied history that reflects the post-war cultural shift in America. From their founding by war veterans seeking camaraderie, through the media sensationalism of the Hollister incident, to their continued presence in the motorcycle community, the Boozefighters remain an iconic and influential motorcycle club.