While everyone begins to tune up for the next couple of days of
merriment, fun and sun, and Hogs, it’s also time to reflect on the
meaning of the rally beyond celebrating the birthplace of the
American Biker.
While everyone begins to tune up for the next couple of days of merriment, fun and sun, and Hogs, it’s also time to reflect on the meaning of the rally beyond celebrating the birthplace of the American Biker.
As each year rolls by, the Hollister Independence Rally Committee learns what works, what doesn’t, and then turns out better rallies for everyone, from the serious biker to the families that come to take in the event.
We all want everyone, from the decades-old biker to the toddler in a parent’s arms, to enjoy themselves during what will become the seventh annual running of the event Friday through Sunday. But we must remember the foundation for the rally, the so-called Hollister riot of 1947. And it isn’t a thing to celebrate.
Although the “riot” takes on greater proportions in the retelling, it will always be remembered as drunken bikers roaring up and down the county’s main street and harassing the locals. And although there were differing opinions on the magnitude of the criminal activities, there was agreement that it was something residents did not want repeated.
The first six rallies have not turned into a repeat of what took place more than 50 years ago, thanks to a number of agencies, organizations and most of all the thousands that have attended each year.
But when thousands gather under hot temperatures, and some with more alcohol in their systems than needed, it doesn’t take much to turn the direction of the event.
Thankfully, this hasn’t happened.
Plans are in place by law enforcement to keep the rally safe, and beyond that, officials should be aware, watch out for and take action against even simple things such as excessive use of profanity in public.
We salute the many organizers and hope everyone has a fun and safe Hollister Independence Rally.
