Birthplace of Harley-Davidson founder up for sale

The original home of William Davidson, the co-founder of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, is up for sale.

Davidson Cottage (formerly Netherton Cottage), is a restored 18th century country cottage located between Forfar and Brechin.

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Home of Harley-Davidson

In the 19th century the cottage was occupied by Alexander ‘Sandy’ Davidson and his family until 1858 when they emigrated to the United States, settling in Milwaukee.

The middle son, William C Davidson, who was born in Scotland, at the cottage in Netherton, had a fascination for all things mechanical and his three sons, Arthur, Walter and William A, saw the potential of the new world of motorisation.

They joined forces with Arthur’s friend, Bill Harley, and started the legend that was to become Harley-Davidson. Their father, William C, who was born in the property which is for sale, built their first workshop, where the iconic motorcycle was born, in 1903.

Fast forward to 2008 and the cottage was bought by the current sellers, who are dedicated Harley Davidson enthusiasts. They set about an ambitious renovation programme to restore the house back to how it would have looked in 1858, when the Davidsons emigrated.

It is now a authentic piece of history, having been stripped right back to the walls using lime mortar and other natural materials so as to be in keeping with the period. Internally new floors were laid and wiring installed but in order to stick meticulously to the preservation of authenticity the power sockets are hidden and the light fittings are built into the wall panelling.

The cottage is being marketed by Savills.

Ruaraidh Ogilvie, for Savills, said: “A truly unique proposition, Davidson Cottage has already gathered quite some following from Harley Davidson aficionados around the world, as a place of pilgrimage and an intriguing holiday destination.

“It has been a real labour of love by the sellers who have re-created an entirely authentic early Victorian rural dwelling. The new service block provides the modern comforts required without jeopardising the historic nature of the original cottage and together they make a fascinating addition to the market.”