Antique motorcycles from the 1940’s through the 1980’s were on display at the farmers’ market lot in downtown Vicksburg Saturday during the inaugural Vintage Motorcycle Show organized by Roger Harris.

The event was open to all two wheeled vehicles with a motor that were built pre-1990. There were more than 50 motorcycles on display including classic Harley Davidsons and Hondas, an old Indian Chief and more.

“This is my hobby and this is right in my wheelhouse,” Harris, who brought eight of his motorcycles to display, said. “I am loving it. There is not much of anything to do for the vintage bike enthusiast around central Mississippi so I wanted to get this thing started, build on it next year and make it an annual event. Hopefully it will grow and grow and we can have something for everybody to come to Vicksburg for.”

Enthusiasts brought their bikes from throughout the region including Alabama, and multiple visitors from Louisiana. Lewis Runge, who used to work in Vicksburg, but now lives in Foley, Ala., made the trip with his four vintage Hondas.

“Anytime there’s a car show or a bike show, guys like me that like these old bikes bring them for the people to enjoy,” Runge said. “Many of these motorcycles were very near junkyard material, very rusty and in terrible condition. It is a real joy to be able to bring something back and restore it.”

David Laroe and his wife Heather made the trip from Memphis specifically for the show after seeing a post about it on Facebook.

“I have a ’73 Honda 350 that I am restoring so we saw this on Facebook and wanted to come check it out,” Laroe said. “It is great so far. We took a quick look around. It looks good. There’s a good turnout. It helps to see some of the other (motorcycles).”

Harris awarded multiple door prizes throughout the event and awards were given out for best in show and a variety of categories. Harris said he was impressed with the turnout and hopes to make the show an annual event.

“I think it is a very good turnout. I am pleased with it. My goal was 50 bikes and I think we are going to blow right by that. It looks like a great event for downtown,” Harris said. “I really didn’t know what I was going to have. I knew I was going to have at least 25 to 30, but anything over that is icing on the cake. I think we are having a good crowd and will build on it for next year.”