Motorcycle tribute to Little Bighorn

Honorable hog: Motorcycle pays tribute to Little Bighorn

By Kim FundingslandA Minot man has taken his interest in frontier history to a fascinating level. Mark Hamilton has always been intrigued with Native American history and the Battle of the Little Bighorn. Now he has brought his enthusiasm and knowledge of a transformational era in U.S. history to life through an imaginative venue a 2004 Sportster Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

"I did a lot of research. I thought for a long time about what I wanted on the bike," said Hamilton. "I knew I'd have Sitting Bull and Custer and also decided on Gaul. Gaul's presence is such a magnificent physical specimen. He has great character in his face."

Gaul was a Sioux chief and one of the leading inspirations for fellow warriors at the Battle of the Little Bighorn.

Mark Hamilton, of Minot, looks at a motorcycle that has been transformed into a story-telling tribute for participants in the Little Bighorn battle of 1876. Hamilton and Towner artist Andrew Knutson teamed with historians to accurately depict various scenes incorporated into the bike.Comment:  For more on Indians and motorcycles, see Steel Ponies at the Eiteljorg.