Remembering a founder

William A. Davidson left a legacy of being one of the most empathetic, supportive, generous and selfless men in the organization’s long and proud history.

When William A. Davidson joined with his two brothers, Arthur and Walter, and family friend William Harley in their efforts to design and build a new and better motorcycle, he completed the quartet that would go on to found the Harley-Davidson Motor Company.  

Although the transportation industry at the beginning of the 20th century was new and rapidly evolving, William was intrigued by the work his brothers and Harley were doing. Already a skilled mechanic, his experience brought a wealth of knowledge to the budding company, and his efforts went far to assure its future success.  

When the company was incorporated in 1907, William, who preferred being called Bill, became the works manager. As a toolmaker, he was ideally suited to identify and purchase the presses and other equipment needed to refine the manufacturing process. His desk was always covered with parts from various stages of the manufacturing process: a semi-finished hub, bearing, shaft, or connecting rod. He knew the steel from which each part was made, the processes it had undergone, and those that were necessary for completion. He used this knowledge to continually improve factory operations, a necessary skill because the demand for Harley-Davidson^® motorcycles continued to grow rapidly.  

His expertise in the manufacturing process kept Bill in close contact with Harley-Davidson’s factory employees, whose insight he relied on to stay informed about any problems or possible improvements in factory operations. Among the staff, he was known for his compassion, generosity, and willingness to listen to even the smallest problem, remembering the days when he, himself, was pounding a hammer. He was always happy to help others, whether that was buying coal for the needy or lending an overcoat to a friend who didn’t have one. These good deeds were never publicized. This affability extended to everyone he encountered – from machinists and dealers to bankers and politicians. He was willing to share his time with everyone.  

William A. Davidson passed away on April 21, 1937, at the age of 66. He probably didn’t realize how far his legacy would extend – his son William H. Davidson would serve as president, as would his son John. William H.’s other son William G. Davidson, better known today as Willie G., now serves as chief styling officer emeritus and brand ambassador for the Motor Company after an illustrious career spanning almost five decades, and is perhaps the most familiar face of the Harley- Davidson family. Willie’s G.’s children, Bill and Karen Davidson, make the fourth generation to contribute to the legacy of Harley-Davidson that William A. started nearly 115 years ago.  

Typical of the tributes paid to Bill Davidson is the following from one of his co-workers: “To have known Mr. Davidson, to have worked with him, to have been associated with him, was indeed a rare privilege. His example, his precepts, his deeds, have left their influence on all those with whom he came in contact. The world is happier, a cheerier, a better place for his having been among us.”

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