The Davidson Legacy
Sightseeing attraction | Brechin | Scotland | United Kingdom
Historical site in Scotland
"The Davidson Legacy" is a significant historical site near Brechin, Scotland, representing the restored childhood home of William C. Davidson, the father of the founders of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company. The property, known as Davidson Legacy Cottage or Netherton Cottage, is located in the Angus region near the village of Aberlemno.
Restoration of Davidson Cottage
The story begins with Alexander "Sandy" Davidson, a blacksmith, who lived with his wife Margaret and their six children in this humble two-room cottage. In 1857, the family decided to emigrate to America, where their son William C. Davidson later became the father of Arthur, Walter, and William - the co-founders of Harley-Davidson.
Visit to Davidson Legacy Cottage
In 2008, Harley-Davidson enthusiasts Mike Sinclair, Maggie Sherrit, and Keith Mackintosh discovered the now dilapidated cottage. They recognized its historical value and purchased it to save it from demolition. After an intensive restoration phase, the cottage was opened to the public in 2012. Today, it is presented as it would have looked in the mid-19th century, complete with a functioning hearth, traditional furniture, and authentic decor.
Davidson family history
The Davidson Legacy Cottage offers visitors a glimpse into the life of the Davidson family before their emigration, shedding light on the Scottish roots of one of the world's most famous motorcycle brands. It has become a pilgrimage site for Harley-Davidson fans and history enthusiasts who wish to experience the humble origins of this legendary family.
Harley-Davidson roots in Scotland
The surroundings of the cottage are characterized by the picturesque landscape of Angus, with gentle hills and historic attractions such as the Pictish stones of Aberlemno. A visit to the Davidson Legacy Cottage offers not only a historical but also a scenic delight.
