BACKROADS • JULY 2026
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BACKROADS • JULY 2026
W H AT ’ S I N S I D E
MONTHLY COLUMNS
Motorcycles, Travel & Adventure
FREE WHEELIN’ ........................................ 4 WHATCHATHINKIN’ ................................... 5
Publishers
Brian Rathjen • Shira Kamil
Contributors
Mark Byers, Dr. Seymour O’Life
Office
BACKROADS 160 Cty Rd 521, Newton, NJ 07860
phone
973.948.4176
editor@backroadsusa.com
online
www.backroadsusa.com
INSIDE SCOOP ........................................ 18
Advertising
973.948.4176
WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE .................... 32
Follow Us
Backroads-Motorcycle-Touring-Magazine
Post Us
@BackroadsGal
See Us
backroadsmagazine
ON THE MARK........................................... 6 BACKLASH ................................................ 7
20 22
INDUSTRY INFOBITES ............................... 9 GREAT ALL AMERICAN DINER RUN .........10 BIG CITY GETAWAY ................................. 12 MYSTERIOUS AMERICA .......................... 14 WE’RE OUTTA HERE ................................ 16
FEATURES OLD SCHOOL BASEBALL ........................ 20 BASEBALL HOT DOGS APPLE PIE ........... 22 RISE AND FALL OF JOHN ANDRE ............ 27 SYBIL LUDINGTON’S RIDE ...................... 31
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BACKROADS (ISSN 1087-2088) is published monthly by BACKROADS™, Inc. 2026. All rights reserved. BACKROADS™ may not be reproduced in any manner without specific written consent from the publisher. BACKROADS™ welcomes and encourages submissions (text and photos) and suggestions. Include phone number with submissions. BACKROADS™ will only return material with enclosed sufficient postage. The written articles and opinions printed in BACKROADS™ are not necessarily those of the publisher and should not be considered an endorsement. The Rip & Rides® published are ridden on the sole responsibility of the rider. BACKROADS™ is not responsible for the conditions of the public roadways traversed. Please respect the environment, read your owner’s manual and wear proper protective gear and helmet. Ride within your limits, not over them.
BACKROADS • JULY 2026
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BACKROADS • JULY 2026
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FREE WHEELIN Let’s torque About It…. When I got into motorcycles, my meager tool kit began to grow. Sockets, wrenches, and Allen and Torx kits, when my bikes got far more expensive than my earnings. A sign of dedication and youthful bravery. Replace a clutch? Swap an engine? Patch a tube at 2 am on Montauk Highway? Oh, sure. You betcha. Age brought a temper to all that. Some tasks that I would quickly, albeit questionably, tackle – I am a bit more hesitant. As my brother-in-law Richie wisely tells me all the time… “Get a guy for that!” Still, when faced with some tasks, a devil and an angel take opposite sides of the argument, and sometimes opposite sides of my shoulders. “You got this! What could possibly go wrong?” “Why go to all this trouble…pay a real technician to do this.” Then there is the monetary aspect of life. Ben Franklin said… “A penny saved is a penny earned.” Money saved by going Shade Tree is money that can be spent on guitars, Hot Wheels, comic books, and the other joys of life. That is, if it will be approved by Backroads’ fiduciary head, which is traditionally highly unlikely. All this leads up to a confluence of occurrences that had me having a serious three-way discussion with me, myself, and I – not sure which one is the devil and which is not. In one day, I had two stalwart machines betray me. My KLR 650 and my 1250GS. One is a very simple bike with honest, simple fixes and prices that are modest as well. The other is not. BMW can mean Bring Much Wampum, or Burn My Wallet. The KLR’s issue was a cooling system that was suddenly burying its temperature gauge. The BMW was a clutch that was not clutch, when a lot of power was requested. Both would require some work. The Kawi could be a simple drop off at my friendly neighborhood shop (The Guy), or I could handle this myself. The clutch on a BMW? Both the angel and devil fell down laughing, and then went to MWAG with arms around their shoulders, giggling.
BRIAN RATHJEN I took a look at multiple YouTube videos – today’s equivalent of the Helmet of Knowledge from the Spock’s Brain TOS episode. Shira watched me, watching these. Her eyes darted back and forth from me to our checkbook, which was suddenly beginning to smolder. “Well,” she asked. “You think you can do this?” Turning away from YouTube with wide and glazed eyes, I said half-heartedly… “It’s simple, Jim. Of course, of course… a child could do it, a child.” She asked who the hell Jim was? Over the next week, I went about servicing both bikes. The KLR, being a KLR, was a straightforward and easy thermostat and coolant flush, and less than a C-note total. The BMW… would be a bit more involved. The Germans would want nearly two grand for this operation – that is the equivalent of over 1,500 Hot Wheels cars, but 10 times less than Spider-Man #1. Relativity would not be allowed here. The checkbook now began to glow like an angry Chicago Pile. On the other hand, a Rekluse replacement clutch, a known better option, was just half that. But reading Shira’s face, the orange and yellow light reflecting off her beautiful face from the burning checkbook, I went for option #3 – a set of EBC Clutch Plates, again around a C-note. The little tube of BMW Sealing Gasket Goop was almost as much. Germans. Again, and again, I went to the YouTube of Knowledge… I’ve been told I’m a child. I could do this. It all started out well enough. Taking things apart, even methodically, is easy. Reassembly? Well then. Like Bones, in the middle of it all, I began to have doubts. Unlike McCoy, the BMW did not start telling me how to proceed. “Yes, Brian, now install the oil-sopped clutch plates in specific order. Good, well done. Now the springs and plate, and torque down to EXACTLY 10 Nm. Don’t over-tighten them. It would not be good.” The devil and angel were back in the barn again, and very drunk. “Go for it… just use a socket wrench. Ha, use a breaker bar!” I looked at my old torque wrench, originally designed for boiler plates for the White Star Line. In my sad little mind, I had fleeting and impure thoughts of the ultimate torque wrench, the Snap-On 3/8” Drive Flex-Head TechAngle Torque Wrench, that cost about the same as the Rekluse Clutch package. Oh…if a wrench could be sexy.
It is so beautiful, so state-of-the-art, that I could go pee, come back, and it would have the job finished. But the smoke from the last CBC (Check Book Conflagration) had just about cleared, so I’d only get to play with this late at night, on ToolHub or YouTool. In the end, I used a Quinn Torque Adapter from One Particular Harbor. $35 bucks American. It worked. There will probably never be a Snap-On 3/8” Drive Flex-Head TechAngle Torque Wrench in my tool box – maybe Hot Wheels has one? ,
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WHATCHATHINKIN’ tAkIn’ It to the street For the past many, many years we have made the trip to Virginia International Raceway at the bottom of Virginia to meet up with the very good folks from CLASS. For those not familiar with the name, CLASS (California’s Leading Advanced Safety School), started by Reg Pridmore in 1986, is not a racing school but rather a means of applying racing techniques to street riding. All manner of motorcycles attend – from sport to tourers to cruisers – and if the riders seriously apply themselves and listen to the information given on and off the track, they will all go home better riders. After 50 years of providing the friendliest and safest place to learn and imparting their riding wisdom and techniques to over 30,000 students, Reg and Gigi, or as most know her as ‘The Boss’, have pitted and are enjoying their much-deserved retirement. We will miss the fun times spent with the whole crew, the beauty of Virginia International Raceway, and the camaraderie with all those with whom we shared the track. So, what to do about continuing our learning and improvement of riding skills? Enter Ken Condon and Riding in the Zone. Ken has been involved with twowheeled machinery for over 50 years – personal riding, off and on-road racing, ice riding, drag racing and track day instructor. In the same year Pridmore started CLASS, Condon began his roadracing career. He is a 25-year MSF RiderCoach, bringing his knowledge and expertise as former lead instructor to Tony’s Track Days for 24 years. His books Riding in the Zone and Motorcycling the Right Way have inspired reader and riders to improve their riding and make themselves safer on the street. In 2013 Ken began his Riding in the Zone Motorcyclist Training, including On-Street, Dual Sport/ADV, Advanced Parking Log and Non-Sportbike courses. You can find out more about all his courses on his website ridinginthezone.com. At the end of May, we joined Ken and his fine instructors on his Non-Sportbike Training Day at Palmer Motorsports in Palmer, MA. This track is located kind of south-center of the state, north of the quiet corner of Connecticut. It is 2.3 miles with some great elevation changes and 14 cambered corners. The surrounding landscape is nicely wooded and the facilities include classroom, bathrooms and covered parking, with paddock garage rentals available. During our day of training, we did see folks with motorhomes and many who trailered their motorcycles. There is lodging within a 15 mile radius, and we made our base at the Publick House in Sturbridge, MA, with its history and fine restaurant offering two nights of restfulness. Non-Sportbike Training Days, as with Pridmore’s CLASS, are not all-out track days at all. Our day saw sport-tourers, ADV bikes, a KLX, full-dressers (Harley-Davidson and Indian) and pretty much everything in between. There were those who had just learned to ride, some who had never been on a track before and a few with lots of experience of riding and track time. The common denominator was that everyone was there to learn and to help themselves become better street riders. We were split into three groups – Blue (fast group),
SHIRA KAMIL
Yellow (fast but not Marquez) and Red (new to the track). After designation, it appeared that the Red group was fairly small and Ken asked if anyone would want to join them. I figured, even though I’ve been on the track quite a bit, I wasn’t looking to blister my tires so made the switch. I’m glad I did, as there were many times during the day that I was by myself on the track. The day involved 20 minutes of track time, then 20 minutes in the classroom and the in between time used for hydrating and such. Food was available, both breakfast and lunch, from a local food truck. Circulating amongst the participants, it was interesting to find who was who, where they were from, the experience all had, or didn’t have and why they were there. For instance, Diamond, sporting a very snazzy Hyabusa, was from Virginia and she and her husband/mechanic motorhomed up as she is trying to get her racing license and acquiring different track experiences. Another young woman on her first track experience, was riding her mother’s Triumph Scrambler, as her Royal Enfield Himalayan had been in the shop for the last many months for repair. At the end of the day and on the ride home, I found myself analyzing my riding, and paying more attention to my entry and exiting of turns. The information on track was being taken to the street, and I encourage all who ride to do the same. ,
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ON THE MARK CLAssIC, restored, CLunker, or rAtbIke: I rAn When You PArked Me I wish this was strictly about motorcycles, but like a lot of my stuff, it isn’t: it’s about the creatures who ride motorcycles, one in particular. The people who teach writing say that you should write about that which you know best; consequently, the “one” to which I refer is me. I’m in my early sixties and I retired last year, so I should be riding all the time. I no longer have to worry about how much vacation I’m burning to gallivant on two wheels and this year I’ve done my fair share, with two bicycle race jobs and the Backroads Spring Break. The problem isn’t the time off – it’s Father Time. The old man tallied up my years and decided certain of my parts are either beyond or are nearing the end of their useful lives. The biggest annoyance right now is a torn left rotator cuff and labrum that I thought had been calmed last year with a huge needle full of lidocaine and cortisone and a lengthy regimen of physical therapy, but apparently my spring riding angered the inflammation gods. Those jerks stick together, so the right rib I tweaked riding (actually, crashing) offroad last October is joining the chorus, along with a couple other places, including the opposite shoulder with the broken collarbone and the elbow I broke in the same bicycle race wreck 34 years ago. Funny/not funny how every time I see an orthopedist,
MARK BYERS they sing the chorus “you’re gonna have arthritis from this.” I’m waiting for the ticking time bomb of the knee I blew out to join the fun. In thinking about this – also known as sitting around feeling sorry for myself – I realized that I am like a bike you see on eBay or Marketplace. You know the kind: the ones where the ad says “it ran when I parked it” or “just needs some TLC.” I can imagine the ad that could be placed for me: “Vintage machine in decent condition, has been down a couple times but nothing serious, runs pretty good, sometimes a little temperamental, worn chain and sprockets, OK tires, brakes could use a flush but work fine, couple paint scuffs, just needs a little TLC.” In the parlance of used bike sellers, I hope I am a “classic that needs some work” or something to that effect and not a “clunker” or “ratbike.” I have pretty high standards for the material condition of my machines, so I may tend to be more critical than I should. Life would be so much simpler if I could bite the bullet and replace the part(s). I just got a new clutch in the RT, replacing it before it failed completely. Come to think of it, that’s the model that Betsy is using, with two new shoulders and a knee. The problem is that the cost of human parts replacement is high and the ensuing recovery is lengthy. If you think BMW parts are expensive, try pricing a hip, shoulder, or knee job. Plus, you can ride a clutch job on a bike immediately following without thrice-weekly rehab visits and the ensuing daily “homework.” Instead, my body is what our British friends call a “bodgejob,” literally held together with screws and figuratively with bubble gum and bailing wire. Downing ibuprofen is my equivalent of the old trick of putting sawdust in the transmission to keep it quiet. I envy the people who are physical “classics” with few hitches and glitches – those with nearly perfect, trouble-free, toned and tuned frames that belie their ages. Then there are the people who have had some misadventures, but who are genetically predisposed to be durable or who have been “restored” to perfect working order. They are the ones going to the gym and/ or pool daily and drinking half-caff vanilla lattes with a salad. I see myself as a bit of a “clunker,” being an overweight, retro-technology, largely unrestored model: I am the physical equivalent of a 1971 Suzuki GT750 “Water Buffalo” with some dents and scuffed paint from falling over in the garage. I don’t think I fall into the “ratbike” category just yet and I hope I never will, but I never know what Papa Time has in store for me, especially if I continue to ride offroad and do silly long days in the saddle on a road bike. I need to hit the gym and the pool and eat a few salads so that at least I can say, “I ran when you parked me.” ,
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BACKLASH Hey Backroads, Nice article about Davey Newswanger, from Sport Motors in Newmanstown PA! Dave has worked on every brand I’ve owned for 35 years! No return repairs! “Best of the Very Best People/ Mechanic /Technician I’ve ever met!” Rob 47 • Wyomissing PA Brian, Loved your Last Man Standing column. Reminded me of Vito and Speer. RIP Vito. Ride safely. Kind regards, Alan Tecchio
Letters to the Editor ads and articles… stays in hotels and inns you’ve stayed in. Stayed at the Gray Ghost often when up that way, and is riding to WV this summer. When I asked why he never rode with you, he just said “they don’t line up.” He described you to a T, and knew your love for ice cream. He even showed me his Backroads file on his phone where he compiles places mentioned by you both for his short and very long riding experiences. He spoke SO highly about the magazine, he even went so far as saying he wouldn’t have had the great rides and used products recommended if it wasn’t for Backroads. Your sister - Rowena
The Backroads Report
Indeed Alan, Vito was one of the first supporters of this magazine, and was one of the most dedicated motorcyclists we know. Whether it be at his shop, one of Speer’s many shop rides, or just talking bikes on the side of the road.
Oh my God! Taiwan’s TC Bank. Such an awesome three minutes! Loved it! Bobby Anzalone
Another great issue, guys! Particularly enjoyed the story on J.E.Hanger (and I thought Philippi was just about mummies) and Spring Rides with a Purpose. Shout out to Mr. Byers and his 20 Backroads anniversary! Terrific wordsmith, outstanding Backroads ambassador and excellent friend! Ride safe! Larry C.
Hello Brian.. I think I met you today at the Oldwick General Store...you’re a NY Mets fan, as am I..you gave me the Backroads magazine, thanks for that! Great stuff very interesting lifestyle. Jon
Good morning- met a guy yesterday at the Waldwick brewery who has been a loyal reader of Backroads for about 18 years. Spoke very highly about why he reads the magazine. He used to read the paper edition, now digital, he said. He was excited to learn I was your sister, never met either of you, but anytime he plans rides somewhere he follows your suggestions from your
Hello Brian and Shira, I just received my May issue and, as I read the first several pages while eating lunch, I came across the Infobite focused on the Nation of Patriots and The Patriot Tour. Thank you both so much. Along with the previous ad in The Backroads Report, you’ve gone above and beyond to promote The Patriot Tour. It’s far more than I expected and I’m thrilled. I hope I get to thank you in person in June at the Bergen County H-D flag stop or, even better, in August at John’s Maine motomarathon.
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And since I’m writing, I want to share a little feedback. Thank you for featuring Sidi boots. I had never heard of them before your review and it prompted me to check them out. I pulled the trigger on a pair at Morton’s BMW in Fredericksburg, Virginia last week and I love them. My first long-distance trip this year will be next week when I head to Albert Lea, Minnesota (from my home in central Virginia) for the 2026 Patriot Tour Launch. I can’t wait to see how I feel after a long day of riding. On a different subject, I can’t resist reacting to Jake Herzog’s message in Backlash. I’m saddened to hear of his illness and I appreciate his positivity despite the diagnosis and its implications. His message reminds me of something I saw on Facebook a number of years ago. An elderly woman rider (age 77 if I remember correctly) lamented that her friends tried to convince her to stop riding because she was too old. She asked if she was too old to ride. Numerous respondents, including me, encouraged her to find a new group of friends--ones who’ll support her rather than try to get her to give up something she loves. I shared that I refuse to specify a time when I expect to stop riding because I don’t intend to stop. It generated the most positive reaction I ever got on FB. Over time, I adopted this as my motto and had the attached patch made for my vests. I carry a few with me and, whenever I encounter someone who likes it and embraces the concept, I give them the patch. You two don’t strike me as patch people, but I’d be happy to send a couple your way if you’re interested. Thanks for Backroads and especially for promoting the Nation of Patriots! Cheers, Larry Goldstein
I was going to fax this to that old machine, but wasn’t sure it was still connected! The podcast was a great listen. Brian such a seasoned guest & your message of finding your passion & developing it came through. The host definitely highlighted what both of you have accomplished. Also I loved that in Letters to Editor, Jake Herzog expressed his ability to ride vicariously through the Backroads. His letter just stuck with me even as a passenger. Robyn Hi Shira and Brian, Our group did the BackRoad Brewery Rip & Ride this weekend……. WOW what a great ride, the further north we went, the better the roads became. Passing by Backroads Central I gave a salute. The ride was so good we reversed it and took it back. The brewery was a perfect destination and the food was excellent. I liked the new GPX download page too. Thank you for taking the time & knowledge in sharing these rides for free with the general riding public. Gary Renna Gary, So glad you all enjoyed. Hope it was the friendly salute given. See ya on the road!
Spring Break Feedback I counted. I have had the good fortune of attending at least 50 Backroads events including this years Spring Break. I’ve heard it said that “It’s about the journey!” Well for me it’s all about the riding and the destination…. the riding ALWAYS being most excellent rain or shine (thanks to our 2 road whisperers) and the destinations ALWAYS the best because of the people….our ever expanding Backroads ‘family.’ In these times when the world seems like it is trying to divide folks… at a Backroads event it is pretty much pure unadulterated joy in every direction. Thank you for reminding us all that finding community, friendship and love is the gift we all can share at every Backroads Event. Thank you for continuously making that happen. Much love, Helene Darvick The Backroads trip to Elkins, West Virginia was a big success lots of fun, almost 50 bikes and a bunch of cars a wonderful dinner and great roads and great sites. Matt Glasheen Hi Brian and Shira! I’m just home from the ride, and wanted to reach out with some details before I forget. First and foremost: Epic ride! My buddies and I had a blast. It was great to see you two and others again, and make some new friends. The Tygart Hotel was really REALLY nice. Great choice. Robert Pigford As always - great roads, great people, great vibes! Restorative properties your Backroads gatherings. Andrea S. A fun filled, fantastic, weekend, and oh the twisty roads !!. Thank you both for all the years of fun and friendship ! Jeff C. Thank you Brian and Shira for all your effort in putting together a Terrific Spring Rally! Elkins was a perfect location for some incredible motorcycle loops in the Mountain State. Joe G.
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INDUSTRY INFOBITES CALIFORNIA… WHAT THE F*# NOW? CALIFORNIA LOOKING TO LIMIT TIRE CHOICE California is at it again—new legislation is being explored by state policymakers in an attempt to regulate the tire industry. The California Energy Commission (CEC) wants to introduce a law that sets a minimum tire rolling resistance target to help save a claimed $1 billion in extra fuel costs experienced by drivers. Basically, California is trying to set the performance standard for aftermarket tires, which can change almost everything, especially for enthusiasts who prefer grippy high-performance tires. California says they are inefficient. Really? In its report, the CEC outlined several performance metrics for tires, all of which centered around rolling resistance. This is basically how it sounds: the less rolling resistance a tire has, the easier it is to roll, and the longer it can roll for a given amount of energy. Modern tire development focuses heavily on rolling resistance because it makes a sizeable impact on fuel economy and energy efficiency for EVs. You know, even though they claim motorcycle tires are exempt, this will spill over into our market, and then motorcycles will start to spill over as well. It begs the question… does Sacramento really deserve a Major League Ball Team?
NBC SPORTS’ 2026 SUPERCROSS SEASON! Fastest Season to Reach One Billion Minutes Consumed on Peacock! NBC Sports’ coverage of the 2026 Monster Energy AMA Supercross season, the first portion of the 2026 Monster Energy SuperMotocross World Championship series – delivered viewership gains and milestones across NBC, Peacock, NBCSN, and NBC Sports Digital, according to Nielsen Big Data + Panel, with digital data from Adobe Analytics. Peacock once again helped deliver the most-streamed
season on record for the sport, up 12% compared to last year’s record-breaking season. With all 17 races once again presented live on the streaming platform, unique viewership on Peacock was up 27%, with consumption exceeding one billion minutes faster than any prior season. The record was set at Round 16’s race in Denver on May 2, marking the earliest point in the series the milestone has been achieved. The previous record was set on May 24, 2025, at Fox Raceway.
News from the Inside JOSEF HONEDER APPOINTED HEAD OF DEVELOPMENT AT BMW MOTORRAD Josef Honeder will assume the position of Head of Development at BMW Motorrad on 1 June 2026. In this role, he will be responsible for the entire technical concept, engineering, testing and further development of technologies for all new motorcycle models of the brand. A mechanical engineering graduate, Josef Honeder is a highly experienced product development expert who has held various management positions within the BMW Group for more than 20 years, including responsibilities in the areas of overall vehicle development and
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BACKROADS • JULY 2026
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Wanamakers General Store presents
GREAT ALL AMERICAN DINER RUN PInevILLe tAvern
1098 durhAM roAd, PInevILLe PA 18946 215-598-3890 • www.pinevilletavern.com The beginning of the winter of 1776 saw our Continental Army having to deal with a number of defeats and a declining morale through their ranks. They had been forced from New York by the British and their Hessian auxiliaries, and Washington, his officers, and the Continental Army were forced to retreat across New Jersey. That December saw ninety percent of the Continental Army soldiers who had served at Long Island gone. Men had deserted, feeling that the cause for independence was lost. Washington, Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army, expressed some doubts, writing to his cousin in Virginia, “I think the game is pretty near up.” Washington needed a win. Sometimes we are all in need of that. So, as we celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday, we thought we’d serve up a Great All-American Diner Run that floats right at the center of America’s deepest historical waters. A tavern that was open when Washington was still an officer in the British Army. A tavern that speaks of a plan created under their own roof. A plan that would change the tide, if not the war, at least the Army’s morale and patriotic tone. We speak of the Pineville Plan.
tasty places to take your bike The story goes that on the night of December 14th, 1776, a group of Continental officers met for dinner at the tavern in Pineville. Here, General Washington and his aide-de-camp, Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hamilton, began to put together a plan to attack the barracks across the Delaware River, in Trenton, New Jersey. We are all familiar with Emanuel Leutze’s famous painting of the men crossing the Delaware River on that Christmas night in 1776. It does capture the emotion and history of the event, if not its historical accuracy. In truth, the battle, though small, was a big win for Washington, and began a course correction for our Revolutionary War. And, it is said, the plan began here at the Pineville Inn, located on a road named for the builder of the boats that did bring our Army across the river. Today, they celebrate that history, and still, after almost three centuries, they offer locals and travelers superb food and good cheer. Huzzah! We took a ride down there earlier this season for an early dinner and were very taken with how the Pineville Tavern has grown. Decades ago, we featured the Pineville Tavern, and their famed Snapper Soup, and a small bit of lunch. This day we had a good-sized group, and were able to grab a table in Pineville’s opulent Greenhouse, a newish 80seat room that was created to replace the tent erected
BACKROADS • JULY 2026
during the difficult times of the early 20’s. The joy of “semi-outdoor” dining was one of the few good things from that dark time, and the Greenhouse is stunningly designed and created. The image does not do it justice. If you prefer, there is still the very comfortable, and a bit more traditional, dining rooms of the Pineville – at either end of the tavern, we promise a great meal. They still serve their Snapper Soup (sorry, Katie), but the menu goes far beyond this, and they have become known for some excellent pizza offerings. PVT SPO - red sauce- sliced Italian sausage, roasted peppers, and onions. They have a superb Bianca Verde that is made from a white pie- mozzarella, sliced Italian sausage, and broccoli rabe. The Hot Italian, with its hot soppressata, roasted red peppers, fresh garlic, and a drizzle of pesto, and the tavern’s mushroom pie, looked delicious too. You can never go wrong with a good burger, and the Pineville has a cou-
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ple of winner – one being their Million Dollar burger that will only set you back $20 bucks. Being so close to Philadelphia, the “Birthplace of the Nation,” and our nation’s capital from 1790 to 1800, Pineville has a killer cheesesteak (they better!), along with a number of other “handhelds.” If it’s closer to dinner than lunch, take a seat (your choice - historic, or bougie) and order from the main menu. Steaks, home-made fried chicken, salmon, sea bass, and a most excellent “Bawlmer” crab cake. (said with reverence, Baltimore) Since we are having dinner, maybe a bit of dessert will be in order, and the tavern offers a home-made rice pudding with cinnamon and whipped cream, a bunch of different cakes, and Bassett’s ice cream. (also a Philly favorite) The Pineville Tavern has been around for longer than we Americans, and if you have not dropped by then this is the summer to do just that and we will give you a great romp, following Washington and the Continental Army from the top of Manhattan, through the borderlands of New Jersey, and then south along the Delaware with a stop to see a real Durham boat along the way. Huzzah! , Download .gpx file here: backroadsmagazine.transfernow.net/dl/PinevilleTavern
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BACKROADS • JULY 2026
Warren County Tourism presents
BIG CITY GETAWAY the unknoWn soLdIer of sussex CountY, neW JerseY “We do not know from whence he came, but only that his death marks him with everlasting glory of an American dying for his country,” said President Warren G. Harding, Nov. 11, 1921. Harding delivered the remarks during the burial ceremony for the Unknown Soldier of World War I, whom he symbolically “fathered” as next of kin. Over the centuries, how many families have seen their young march off to the call of war? More than we could ever count, we fear. Losing a child, husband, wife, family or loved one to war is unthinkable. Not having them brought home even worse. Sometimes soldiers fall, and they are not, or can not, be identified. The unknown. How terrible to make such a sacrifice, and never have the ones that love you know what happened. Around the world, there are many graves and memorials to such warriors; the most famous here in the United States is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. If you have ever been to this, you know it is one of the most solemn plac-
daytrip ideas to get out of the daily grind es you can imagine. It is guarded 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by soldiers from the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (“The Old Guard”), not the Marines, as is commonly believed; and though the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is now one of the most revered sites at Arlington National Cemetery, it was not always guarded. In the years after the 1921 internment, the memorial had no assigned military presence, and visitors often treated it as a tourist attraction. Concern over the lack of respect led Army Maj. Gen. Fox Conner, the Army’s deputy chief of staff, to order an armed military guard on March 24, 1926. The first sentinel was posted the following morning. Soldiers from the 3rd Cavalry Regiment at Fort Myer, Virginia, assumed the duty, beginning what would become an unbroken vigil for the last 100 years. There are three unknown bodies currently interred in the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, representing World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. But not far from the offices of Backroads lies another, equally worthy of our reverence and respect. Along a small lane in Newton, New Jersey, directly off U.S. 206, you will find a small memorial, a simple marker, to honor another warrior lost in time. This soldier from our first war, the Revolutionary War. The war was a tough one, with disease taking soldiers’ lives far more than musket balls ever did. From December 1779 to June 1780, the Continental Army wintered at Morristown, New Jersey, enduring the war’s harshest winter, characterized by extreme cold, scarcity of supplies,
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and the threat of mutiny. During this encampment, General George Washington established his headquarters at the Ford Mansion, where he managed severe logistical crises, inoculated troops against smallpox, and witnessed key events such as the court-martial of Benedict Arnold and the arrival of the Marquis de Lafayette. We love Lafayette, and right in town, east of Newton, you will find the artsy hamlet named after the Frenchman. In the late Spring of that year, Washington ordered his men to march north, from Morristown, to the town of Newburgh on the Hudson River. Today, our modern roads will bring us from Morristown to Newburgh in hours, but this march took weeks, and along the way, fatigue and disease took their toll on the men, and one soldier who died on this march was laid to rest alongside the Inglis farm just outside of Newton.
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The Unknown Soldier of the Revolution Historical Marker in Sussex County, New Jersey, commemorates a Revolutionary War soldier who died of exhaustion on that march. The marker stands at the intersection of Cherry Lane and Apple Blossom Way in Newton, Sussex County, and it was erected on October 24, 1931, by the Chinkchewunska Chapter No. 24 of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). Even if Cherry Lane is opposite the local Lowes, the section up the hill is very peaceful and serene. For hundreds of years, locals were aware that this was the grave of a soldier buried where he fell on the farm of William Inglison, the road between Newton and what is now Lafayette. The grave was always looked upon with reverence and honor. The Daughters of the Revolution made this official and permanent. Historical Context: Local tradition, dating back to at least 1844, identifies the site as the grave. The monument honors the “unknown patriot” as well as George Washington and all soldiers who endured hardships to secure independence. As it was spoken during the dedication, “It is but fitting that we meet on these historic grounds and pay tribute to one who gave his all that we might enjoy this land, and that we dedicate this monument as a silent expression of our gratitude.” Indeed. ,
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Hermy’s BMW / Triumph Motorcycles presents Dr. Seymour O’Life’s fort MountAIn
MYSTERIOUS AMERICA
81 fort MountAIn stAte PArk rd, ChAtsWorth, GA 30705 In this Mysterious America I have found that you can discover some hidden bits of history when you least expect it. Case in point. I was running along the western edge of Georgia, on Highway 52, a wondrous piece of curvy pavement that rises high to the top of Fort Mountain, before winding its way down again. I had stopped just to take in the scenery and I spotted an old, faded sign for Fort Mountain State Park. Looking closer I saw that the mountain got its name for the ‘a large mysterious stone wall’. Do tell? Atop this mountain, there is the remnants of a monstrous wall, nearly 900 feet long. It seems that, according to the Cherokee, it has been there forever.
While nobody knows who built the zigzagging wall or why, many theories have been tossed around as to its existence. Science and more stodgy academia will tell you that they are sure the wall, commonly called the Rock Fort, was made from rocks gathered from the mountain’s summit. Duh. But someone spent a lot of time stacking the stones, but as of yet no one knows just who that was. The most frequent explanation for the enigmatic barrier is that Native Americans built it sometime around the sixth century for religious ceremonies. One story has it that Spanish conquistador Hernando de Soto built the wall as a fortification to protect himself or his men from the Cherokee Indians that resided in the area. It’s known he had been scouring the land for gold, and the mountain’s supply of gold and silver made it a logical place for him to be. Today, however, many believe he never actually made it far enough north to have created the wall. But here in the dusty hall of Mysterious America we like to look at some other theories. One is that the wall is the work of Madoc, the legendary Welsh explorer. Still others claim the “Moon-Eyed people” from Cherokee mythology were the wall’s architects. The Moon-Eyed People were a legendary group of short, bearded white-skinned people who are said to have lived in Appalachia until the Cherokee expelled them. Stories about them, attributed to native tradition, are mentioned by early European settlers in America. One Cherokee story explains they are called “MoonEyed” because they saw poorly during the day. These stories claim they created the area’s pre-Columbian ruins, and they disappeared from the area. Other tales say,
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and you know this was coming, that the MoonEyed People came from the sky. The story of the Moon-Eyed People is a strange one and it covers a lot of miles, stretching, in native legend, from Alabama all the way up to Delaware. But in Murphy, North Carolina the words are allegedly given a shape. Enclosed in a case inside the Cherokee County Historical Museum they rest, standing upright, with their eyes gazing out and inviting visitors to stare back just as intently. They look unlike any other ancient form of art found in the Southeast, and this is one of the only native representation of the Moon-Eyed People, who look strangely familiar. History and folklore sometimes live in the same neighborhood. They are spoken, documented, passed down, and sometimes they cross paths and give each other a knowing nod, the weight of which only they fully understand. Fort Mountain State Park in Chatsworth, Georgia is one of those places where history and folklore meet.
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Despite its murky origins, one thing is for sure: The fort is definitely an enchanting place. If you visit today, you can see what remains of the wall. Though much of it has now fallen, if you use your imagination, you can see it must have been something quite special in its heyday. It is certainly worth a stop in this Mysterious America. O’Life Out! ,
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Wytheville VA Tourism presents
WE’RE OUTTA HERE north hero house
3643 us-2, north hero, vt 05474 802-372-4732 • www.northherohouse.com Lake Champlain is big...it’s one of the country’s largest buckets of natural mountain water. That would be almost 7 trillion gallons, by the way. In the winter, it becomes New England’s largest ice cube. Lake Champlain has been home to humanity for 8,000 years. The islands that can be found on her have a deep history. Very deep, as the Chazy Fossil Reef, a U.S. National Natural Landmark, is recognized as the oldest known diverse fossil reef. The 1,567 acre site offers visitors a chance to explore the ancient past, with trilobite and nautilus fossils dating back to around 480 million years ago. According to our friends at Hero’s Welcome Provision Store (heroswelcome.com), “in the centuries just prior to its ‘discovery’ by Samuel de Champlain in 1609, the lake had become a bitter boundary line between two great Indian nations. On the West bank were the Iroquois, and on the East, the Algonquins. Each nation claimed the lake in the name of their ancestors, and anyone caught on those waters by an opposing war canoe was in for some serious stress. Naturally, the islands in the middle fell under the same
a weekend destination keeping you on the backroads dispute. So fiercely were they contested that an early Catholic priest referred to them as a “highway of war parties”. There was one matter, however, that these warring tribes readily agreed upon...neither had any affection for early white settlers. For decades, there has been a tendency among American historians to omit the unpleasant aspects of its Indian history. We’ve been given a new picture...of noble, peace-loving forest dwellers, “one with nature,” more than any other culture on Earth. Hardly! Noble they were. Magnificent, they were. Peace-loving, they were not. Not amongst themselves, their Indian enemies or their white enemies.” During our Revolutionary War, many heroics happened here and about. The two islands, North & South, are named for Ethan Allen and his brother – though we are not sure which is which. The town of North Island is actually a Shire Town. Does Shira know this?
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Bernie Sanders just bought a new home here, with four bedrooms and 500 feet of Lake Champlain beachfront on the east side of the island — facing Vermont, not New York. Do the natives know this? We wonder if he rides? We know he has gloves. Well, mittens. Today, things are far more peaceful, even with the war-like, though polite, Canadians just twenty miles to the north. Up this way we have a superb getaway… The North Hero House. We have stayed here and featured The North Hero House years back, but this year’s MotoMarathon has made the Inn an overnight stop, and we thought we’d revisit here this month. This historic, and beautifully restored country inn has a great mix of many happy years serving travelers and guests – as it has been welcoming guests since 1891, when it was founded by James H. Dodds, the descendant of a Scottish family which settled in North Hero in the early 1800’s, back when guests arrived by paddle wheel steamer, and the pier was still in existence in front of the Inn. Back then, the North Hero House was considered a modern marvel at the time as it housed the first flush toilet on the Island. Today we will not need a steamer, as we have a modern state road that lac-
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es through Lake Champlain’s islands, and with a modern road, the inn mixes in modern amenities. The Inn’s wide range of amenities includes 26 newly renovated romantic rooms, with views of Lake Champlain, so make sure you keep an eye peeled for Champ – the famed Lake Monster of Champlain. You thought we’d not mention her? C’mon! Once your bike is parked, you will be all set for the night as the North Hero House has two restaurants and two full bars. The Pier Bar is the place to be for sunset as the Sol sinks behind New York’s Adirondacks, and there is usually live music to be had on the weekends. If you have a group, the North Hero House has a beautiful built barn – just for such gatherings. In the morning, after Champ hunting, there is a complimentary breakfast to get your day going. We are very much looking forward to our return MotoMarathon stay this summer. Why not follow in our footsteps and take a ride up here ‘cause We’re Outta Here! ,
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brooker’s foundInG fLAvors ICe CreAM
MuLtIPLe LoCAtIons In utAh • oPenInG soon In ChAndLer, AZ • Brookersicecream.com We have one of those inspirational blocks on one of our mantles: ‘Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.’ This month’s Inside Scoop stop may very well have been founding on this mantra. Brian and Jamie Brooker opened their first shop on December 10, 2018, at the beginning of winter in Vineyard, Utah. While I am of the opinion there is no ‘bad’ time for ice cream, opening an ice cream business at the beginning of winter may not have been the best idea. So to trump that, they opened their second shop, in Provo, UT, in the middle of the pandemic. Brian Brooker has said that they’ll probably open their third location in the midst of an alien invasion (be careful what you wish for, Brian). It does seem that, since 2018, whatever they have been doing has worked, as they now have 10 locations in Utah with a new one coming to Chandler, AZ. Some 25 years ago, after high school graduation in the state of Virginia, Brian took off to travel a good length of the Appalachian Trail. His time in New England saw him stopping at many ice cream shops with homemade goods. Later, he and Jamie spent a summer semester from BYU in Europe, further solidifying their love of ice cream, specifically Italian gelato. This spark turned into a flame and Brian continued his education and curiosity of the ice cream business with over a decade of ice cream courses around the country, as well as private instruction with industry leaders. He tracked down the inventor of cookies and cream and made ice cream with him, in his basement, for three days. That’s dedication. Having grown up in the backyard of the Founding Fathers in Virginia, his love of Early American history began at a young age. He would visit their homes, battlefields and other places where they made world history. Brooker’s dedication to the founding principles extended far beyond having a sound understanding of the nation’s history and a love for American Heritage. After graduating from BYU with a bachelor’s in science and getting a law degree and MBA from Penn State, he decided to join the military. He served as a judge advocate general (JAG) attorney for eight years. He joined the military because of 9/11, wanting to serve and give back. His love of American history and super-premium, quality ice cream developed into the opening of Brooker’s Founding Flavors Ice Cream. All of their locations are set in Revolutionary America themed taverns, offering a place to enjoy a pint while carousing with the locals. The Provo location has a working Colonial brick fireplace and reclaimed wood bar counter seating. Employees dress in authentic clothing from the Colonial 1776 period, and Brooker’s ice cream creations carry the names of important founding fathers and mothers of the country. Here are just a very few, for examples: Mary Chilton Sweet Potato Casserole: Spiced sweet potatoes, candied pecans and marshmallow swirl. Aaron Burr’s Murderous Shot: Black Madagascar vanilla. Abigail Adams’ salted crack cookie advice: salted caramel ice cream with crack cookie chunks, roasted pecans and smoked almonds. Patrick Henry’s Give Me Chocolate or Give Me Death: rich chocolate ice cream with chunks of chocolate fudge chip brownie, chocolate truffle and a swirl of chocolate ganache. Mum Bett’s Day in Court: Ugandan vanilla ice cream with chunks of heath toffee and chocolate flakes. And Mad Anthony’s Key lime. From these patriotic flavors one can make a plethora of sundaes, equally as patriotic. The Victory at York-
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town: Marquis De Lafayette’s French Vanilla pastry and Alexander Hamilton’s Not Throwing Away my Scoop ice creams with fudge brownie, whipped cream, rainbow sprinkles, butterscotch and hot fudge. Or maybe you will honor the father of our country with the Crossing of the Delaware: George Washington’s Indispensable Flavor and Monroe’s Marshmallow Peanut Butter Cookie Doctrine with peanut butter cup, Reese’s Pieces, whipped cream, chocolate sprinkles, hot marshmallow, chocolate sauce and hot peanut butter. That would have kept the militia warm that winter. Should you visit with a group of your riding posse, why not splurge for The Liberty Bell Monumental Sundae? For a mere $50 you’ll get 13 colonial scoops of ice cream, 4 each dry and liquid toppings, 2 split bananas, whipped cream, nuts and cherries. Not to alienate our French allies during the Revolutionary War, you can indulge in colonial crepes like Comte de Rochambeau: hot marshmallow, mini M&Ms, hot chocolate sauce, graham cracker crumble and whipped cream. Brooker’s American Drinking Chocolate is the stuff made of legends, literally. For thousands of years, chocolate was known as a beverage. Similar to the introduction of ice cream, chocolate was reserved for the wealthy and powerful elites. This is a history lesson for another time but suffice it to say,
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Brooker’s Drinking Chocolate, one named for each of the original 13 colonies, is a thick, rich chocolate immersion and one that you will not soon forget. Brian Brooker takes both his American history and premium ice cream very seriously. He has brought together his loves and it is his desire that his customers learn to enjoy and appreciate both. “I’ve been studying, reading about America’s founding for many years now. With every
generation that goes by, history is being told inaccurately with an agenda or even a malice towards history,” Brooker said. “I want to put back out in the American community and culture, true and positive things about what makes this place special and different.” Should you find yourself traveling through the state of Utah, it behooves you to rein your horse at one of these fine establishments. Huzzah! ,
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During the middle of the MLB Season, there are usually 15 games being played each day. How many games are really played? Including Little League, Bar Leagues, pick-up games, and charity events? More than we can imagine. But the game we know and love now is not the same as it once was. Could you imagine catching a line-drive ball without a glove? We can’t. The National Pastime has evolved, grown, and changed over the years. There are things that happen now in a game we would not have believed would ever happen. Play reviews? Pitch clock? ABS? We can get behind some of it. Some not. Designated Hitter indeed! Hey, the Babe was a pitcher; and he could hit. Look at Ohtani. But to just say “walk” to a batter, allowing them just to take first, because you’re scared to pitch to him, or to set up a double play? Yee Gads. You take away the Bob Ueuker “Just a bit outside” wild pitch opportunity. It’s baseball. Things happen. Putting a runner on second in extra innings? Nope. Choke me now. Give me real baseball…
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In mid-spring we took a ride over to Ringwood, New Jersey to watch some splendiferous baseball gents do their thing. Welcome to 19th Century Base Ball. Say hello to the Neshanock Base Ball Club. These guys play by 19th Century rules, uses authentic replicas of 19th Century equipment, and wears 19th Century uniforms. As was the custom in the mid-19th-Century, they do not wear gloves; all fielders play barehanded. Ouch! They play because they love the game, and to inform the public on the roots of our National Pastime. Think of them as something like Civil War reenactors, except they use bats and balls instead of rifles and bayonets, and the games are real. The original Neshanock Club was established in July 1866 and comprised mainly of the town’s prominent constituents. The president was George F. Crater, owner of Crater’s Hotel, which was on the spot of what is now the Union Hotel. Some other notable members were E. Vosseller (VP and shortstop), R. S. Kuhl (Captain), and E. Page Southwick (Secretary and catcher). The Neshanock were apparently not very skilled ballists, and often lost to their chief rivals, the Lambertville Logan, by the not-very-competitive scores of 77-25 and 71-47. Unfortunately, no records of the Neshanock were kept after August 1867. Today’s Neshanock were re-established in 2001 by Brad “Brooklyn” Shaw, proudly reviving the original name of the team (but hopefully not imitating their base ball skills). We asked Brad how this all came about… “In about 1990, I saw a Smithsonian Magazine with a man playing baseball in a 19th Century uniform on the cover. Being a huge baseball fan (Yankees) and a big history buff, I excitedly read the article and found there was a festival at Old Bethpage Village that weekend. I piled my family in the car and drove almost two hours from NJ to get there. I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. People playing baseball in old uniforms from many different states using rules from the 19th Century. I found the Captain of a NJ club participating, asked a lot of questions and joined his club for the rest of that year. Living in Flemington, NJ, I went to the town archives and found a club called the Flemington Neshanock who played in the 1870’s. The next year I formed the “new” Flemington Neshanock and we have been playing ever since.” The National Association of Historic Base Ball Clubs is the overseeing body for all this, with 22 official teams listed. According to their website: “1800s baseball, as a concept, refers to the recreation of historical baseball played by the rules, equipment, and customs of a particular era in the past. The first
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game was played in the summer of 1979 at the Old Bethpage Village Restoration in New York as part of a Civil War encampment. The next year saw the program expand, and it has continued to be the longest-running program to date. The 1800s baseball movement aims to provide an authentic and historical experience for players and spectators alike.” While we were taking the game in on a blustery early May Sunday, a young woman came by handing out a fourteen-page pamphlet – 1873 Base Ball Rules & Regulations. That was a full read – and while the basics are still played around Major League stadiums each day, the rules were far different a century and a half ago. The fellows from the Neshanock Base Ball Club play all the time all around the Tri-State region, and you can find out where they will be playing on their website at www.neshanock.org, and you really should take a good look at the National Association at nahbbc.com. Play ball!
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“As American as baseball, hot dogs and apple pie”, an iconic cultural idiom used to celebrate quintessential U.S. traditions, seems very appropriate to be featured in this issue which highlights the 250th anniversary of our country’s birth. The actual phrase did not come into popularity until 1975, when Chevrolet used it for their commercials, cementing their name to these things already iconic to America.
In truth, none of these items began their lives in the good ol’ US of A. Baseball, often called the National Pastime, evolved from older European bat and ball games such as rounders and cricket. The game, as we know it here in the USA, adopted its modern (and ever-changing) rules in the mid-19th century. September 1845 saw the founding of the New York Knickerbocker Base Ball club when Doc Adams and Alexander Joy Cartwright, a volunteer firefighter and bank clerk, codified the rules and introduced a diamond-shaped infield, foul lines and the three-strike rule. The first game using these rules was held on June 19, 1846 at Elysian Fields in Hoboken, NJ between the Knickerbockers and the New York Nine. The rest is history, as is the myth of Abner Doubleday inventing the game in Cooperstown. Hot dogs, as most of you probably know, were brought to this country by German immigrants. Germans ate all shapes and sizes of tuber meats, better known as wursts, but the idea of putting the frankfurter in a hand-held bun was developed in the states. Yes, by a German named Charles Feltman (although this, too, has many versions) who served them from a Coney Island pushcart as early as 1867. One story has Americans joking that the sausages looked suspiciously like the Germans’ dachshunds, thus the name. Today, the oldest hot dog establishment resides in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Famous Coney Island, named as a nod to the famous New York amusement destination, started dishing out dogs in 1914, established by Macedonian immigrants on Main Street, and operated by the same family since. If the apple pie had a passport, it would have stamps from England, France, the Netherlands and a few centuries of travel under its crust. First, the crisp, juicy variety of apples used in pie aren’t even native to North America. Early settlers brought the seed from Europe and it took years of grafting and cultivating before the first apple was even fit for dessert. The only apples which grew here were the crab apples, certainly not what you’d want to find in your crust. All the spices used to make that incredible smell – Asia via European spice trade routes. And putting all this deliciousness together goes back centuries before Betsy Ross ever got to stitching. The first apple pie recipe of record appeared in England around 1390. There’s the French Tatin Tarte, the Dutch streusel and the Swedes had apple desserts that would put our best pies to shame. In 1928, the New York Times mentioned the phrase ‘as American as apple pie’ in reference to the First Lady Lou Hoover and during WWII, American soldiers famously stated they were fighting for ‘Mom and apple pie’, making the humble dessert a patriotic staple. You’ve read about Vintage Baseball elsewhere in these pages, and now that we know some history, let’s get to the act of riding to eat. We’ll put out some classic hot dog establishments and you can decide who is Top Dog, as well as a few of the finest apple pie eateries. Of course, you will have your own, and we’d love to hear about them, both wieners and pies. Bigfoot told us “We have ground up scorpion, reaper, and ghost peppers. bIGfoot hot doGs They’re dehydrated, and we keep them in, like, a shaker, and we’ll shake 520 3rd street, neW MArtInsvILLe, West vIrGInIA 26155 them onto your dog. Sometimes, people want a lot, and they’ll cry, and then 304-455-4441 • bigfoot-hotdogs.goto-restaurants.com people don’t want very much. It’s a really good flavor.” Somewhere over the last number of seasons, we here at Backroads, Shira chose one step down from that with the spicy, and along with the intrepid riders known collectively as the Souththat was plenty hot for us. ern Contingent, have adopted America’s most famous cryptid, You can get their dogs with chili, Sloppy Joe, and all Bigfoot, as a sort of mascot. You’ll find images of Sasquatch, sorts of toppings. Yeti, Jersey’s own Big Red Eye on the bikes, on our walls, These dogs were so irresistible that our friend Kaand there are even rumors that Bigfoot himself lurks in the tie, who will deny this, had AND enjoyed her own forest that surrounds Backroads Central – with a flamingo. Bigfoot Hot Dog. That was a rare sighting as Bigfoot (Hey. It’s a thing) himself. We can’t confirm that… but we have had reports. While running along the Ohio River in West VA check But we’re here to tell you of another Bigfoot sighting about out Bigfoot Hotdogs, you will agree that they are some 500 miles to the south and west of the Jersey State Line… of the very best in the USA! along Route 2, which runs along the West Virginia side of the Ohio River, in a town called New Martinsville. Welcome to Bigfoot Hotdogs. Here you will find all things Sasquatch, and although small in size, their dogs are outstanding. Crisp, meaty, and oh-so-delicious. Bigfoot is serving up hot dogs of all varieties, including the “footlong dog,” that’s a quarter-pound hot dog which fills up two regular hot dog buns. It was very, very good. If you are a brave Backroads’ reader maybe you will go for the Devil Dog. The folks at
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CAPItoL LunCh
510 MAIn st, neW brItAIn, Ct 06051 • 860-229-8237 • capitollunch.com • closed Sundays This Dog has a long history, beginning with Peter and Sophia Lampros who immigrated to the United States from Mytillini, Greece, in 1914. After settling in Connecticut, Peter opened Oxford Lunch in New Britain, CT but Sophia had her own idea to open her own place built around the classic hot dog. Together they developed a meat sauce recipe – still used and now famous – and Capitol Lunch was opened in 1929. Over the next almost 100 years Capitol Lunch grew from a single counter with twelve stools to a full sit-down restaurant, from one side of Main Street to the other, and passed along to friends and family, now in the very capable hands of Constantine Ververis’ sons Gus and Arthur. When we visited, we were warmly greeted by Gus and the young lady behind the counter. As we were on our way home, we got there not long after they opened at 10am, but there were already people sitting enjoying their Capitol Dogs. Looking at the menu, there really was only one option – Famous Hot Dog ‘Up’. Capitol Lunch has used Martin Roscol’s finest quality frankfurters from the very start, and when you order that ‘Up’ you’ll get a very snappy hot dog with mustard, onions and Famous sauce. The famous sauce refers to Grandpa Art’s meat sauce, now legendary. Gus offered us a peak at the 70-year-old pot which held ‘The Magic’, a delicious meat sauce simmering for hours before it’s ready to be served. You can certainly get your dog other ways – ketchup (you heathen), relish, spicy mustard, cheese, sauerkraut – but you came here for the history, so get the original.
ChArLIe’s hot doGs (forMerLY ChArLIe’s PooL rooM)
1122 eAst bLvd, ALPhA, nJ 08865 • 908-454-1354 • fInd theM on fACebook We have talked about Charlie’s many times in these pages, so a brief recap: Charlie’s Pool Room opened as a hot dog joint in 1925, when Grandma Fencz decided that the men playing pool and getting a haircut needed a bite to eat. She developed her own ‘secret sauce’, a sweet sour Hungarian onion sauce. The proper way to order a dog at Charlie’s was the ‘Mealie’ – pan fried hot dog topped with Grandma’s Sauce, chopped onions and precisely cut and placed strips of hot peppers. Her grandsons, Joe and John, ran Charlie’s in all its chaotic glory and atmosphere, until the place was shuttered in 2013. Joe passed in 2015 and when John knew his time was near, he asked a friend and Alpha native, Mike Weirsky, to bring Charlie’s back. Weirsky at first refused but ultimately agreed. A major renovation took place but Weirsky says the walls and ceiling are the original as well as the candy counter and, of course, Grandma Fencz’s Secret Sauce. In July of 2025, 100 years after Grandma Fencz served her first hot dog, Charlie’s Hot Dog reopened its doors. The Mealie is just as delicious as ever, and, even though this is all about the Hot Dog, you can get a Mealie burger as well. The hot dogs have snap, the buns are steamed and the sauce is superb.
rutt’s hut
417 rIver roAd, CLIfton, nJ 07014 973-779-8615 • ruttshut.com Coming in at about the same time as Capitol and the original Charlie’s is Rutt’s Hut, the home of the Ripper. Royal ‘Abe’ and Anna Rutt opened their roadside hot dog stand in 1928. Around the mid70s, the Rutts sold to the current owners – G. Petropoulakis, L. Chrisafinis, N. Karagiorgis and G. Sakellaris, and the legend has become what it is today. Year after year, Rutt’s Hut’s Ripper has won awards, often being lauded as the best hot dog in the country as well as being listed in the book 1,000 Places to See in the USA Before You Die.
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From the beginning, Rutt’s Hut’s specially-made dogs were different, as they are deep-fried to varying degrees of ‘doneness’, ranging from In-and-Out (lightly cooked) to Ripper and Petrified (extremely crispy). As they are deep-fried, the Ripper refers to the cracks in the casing when cooked. Atop these crustilicious wieners sits Rutt’s Hut’s own secret recipe, their relish, which is a blend of mustard, spices and cabbage, making it something akin to a sauerkraut with a kick. You’d be a fool not to order a side of their onion rings and a YooHoo to wash it all down. Not only is Rutt’s Hut an iconic hot dog joint, but they hold an Old Bike Night once a year which brings out some great old rides, as well as some excellent people-watching. Keep an eye for their next one (this year’s was June 10), but do yourself a favor and take a ride to get your Ripper fix.
hot doG JohnnY’s
333 us 46, beLvIdere, nJ 07823 908-453-2882 • hotdogjohnny.com The ‘baby of this group, Hot Dog Johnny’s has been serving up their dogs since 1944. John Kovalsky and his wife Louise began Hot Dog Johnny’s in a modest stand (which is still on their current location) and later moved to the roadside attraction it now inhabits. John bought the piece of property along the Pequest River on Route 46 and developed a business dedicated to great food and service with an atmosphere for families to come and enjoy. And that is exactly what it has become – an iconic stopover or meeting place for families and friends to unite. John and Louise have passed on, but their daughter Patricia has taken over the reins. Unlike the other places mentioned, Hot Dog Johnny’s does not have a special or secret sauce. Their hot dogs are deep fried and served on a steamed bun with choices of mustard, chopped raw onions, sliced dill pickles, sweet relish and ketchup. Sides include fries and whole pickles. If there is one item that sets HD Johnny’s apart from the other hot dog joints, it’s the offering of their fresh, cold buttermilk and equally as cold birch beer. Both of these are certainly a unique taste, but, IMHO, it wouldn’t be a HD Johnny’s visit without the buttermilk. Whatever you decide, order up (no credit cards taken here, so bring some cash) and take a seat on one of their outdoor picnic benches and savor the tranquility of this long-standing establishment.
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destInAtIon doGs
101 PAterson st, n. brunsWICk, nJ 08901 • 732-993-1016 • destinationdogs.com The relatively new kid on the block, opened in 2012, is Destination Dogs. Here you will find an amazing offering of hot dogs, sausages, wursts and other meats from around the world. From domestic to international and gourmet, the menu reads like a travelogue. Here it is more about the creativity and variety than the history. The names are destinations (DUH!) and reside at airports around the world. For your review, here are a few… On the domestic side, you’ll find the Cyclone – Detroit DTW – all beef hot dog, chili, raw onions, spicy brown mustard and scallions, Kansas City Beefs – Kansas City MCI – all beef dog, BBQ pulled pork, coleslaw and scallions, and Surfer Rosa – San Diego SAN – deep fried all beef bacon wrapped hot dog, black beans, shredded jack cheese, smashed avocado, pico de gallo, pickled jalapenos, sour cream and cilantro (what a mouthful that is!). Internationally there’s the Bun Mi – Vietnam HAN – Cantonese sausage, pickled carrots & daikon, cucumber, fresh jalapenos, mayo and cilantro, The Gladiator – Italy FCO – Italian sausage, broccoli rabe and provolone, and Le Magnifique – Canada YUL – Duck sausage, brown gravy, fried cheese curds and parsley. Or you can create your own landing zone by piloting your own dog: choose your dog from 14 varieties, 4 toppings and 2 condiments and take off. They have some other appetizers which would rank high on my list (Scotch egg and Patatas Ridiculas being two).
on to dessert…… You did save room for dessert, yes? The last words in the saying are ‘apple pie’ and we’ll point you towards a few which we feel are among the best. We KNOW you have your favorites, whether it be mom’s homebaked or that special bakery visited before family holidays, and we would like to hear about them as well.
eLIAs CoLe restAurAnt
1176 route 23, sussex, nJ 07461 • 973-875-3550 Serving up comfort food in a family-friendly atmosphere since 1965, this wood-beam cabin with handcarved wooden booths has been a staple in northern New Jersey since it opened its doors. Their madefrom-scratch meals will bring you a warm fuzzy feeling of being home and owner Nancy Lain’s freshly baked fruit and cream pies are the stuff of legends. The apple pie, served hot with a scoop of vanilla ice cream,
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has been a ride-ending feature in so many of our journeys home. Equally as delicious is their picture-perfect lemon meringue, but that doesn’t flow off the tongue like apple pie. But it sure does taste just as good.
MACkeY’s orChArd
284 CountrY roAd 519, beLvIdere, nJ 07823 908-475-1507 • mackeysorchard.com This eight generation farm is located in some of the best riding in New Jersey, thus making it a must stop while out enjoying the open beauty of Warren County. The Apple Bakery opened in the early 1980s by Robert Mackey Jr and his wife Beatrice. They be-
gan with their famous apple cider donuts, the first of their kind in northern New Jersey. In September, they begin making their famous apple pies, referred to as Mile High Apple Pies, as each is made with approximately five pounds of apples. They do make a smaller version as well as apple crumb
pies and apple cake and they still make their delicious apple cider donuts. An added attraction is their homemade ice cream, with so many incredible flavors from which to choose. If your ride home is not too far and you have room in your topcase or saddlebags, pick up a pie and some ice cream and share it with your family – or not. We’ve given you the impetus, now get on your motorcycle and explore the American backroads that lead you to these great places. Celebrate the U.S.A with the things that have made it as great as it is – baseball, hot dogs and apple pie. ,
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His reported last words of “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country,” are some of the most famous American words. The brutal treatment of Hale moved General Washington, and the death of this young man weighed heavily on him over the years. There would be a sad reckoning for this.
Early Years
DUTY AND HONOR - REGARDLESS OF HIS LOYALTIES When Benedict Arnold turned over the plans to West Point, he did not just hand them to the British but to one particular officer.
Major John André.
As we alluded to a few issues ago when talking about the town of Shippensburg, Pennsylvania, André had arranged with Peggy Shippen for the betrayal in the sum of 20,000- English Pounds (almost 4 million U.S. dollars today). Peggy Shippen, once André’s beau, was now the wife of Arnold, an American officer who would become legend, not for his many victories and his heroism, but for his betrayal and traitorous act. But before we speak of André, let us mention Nathan Hale. Hale was a 21-year-old patriot who, when General Washington asked for volunteer spies to discover British plans for New York City, was the only man to answer his excellency’s request. Days later, Hale was found out by Major Robert Rodgers, a Scottish officer of the Queens Rangers, and news of his capture soon reached Washington. Hale was considered a spy, and the British hanged the young man at what is now 66th Street and Third Avenue.
John André was born in London on May 2, 1750, raised in a wealthy family by Huguenot parents who had immigrated from Continental Europe. He had a well-educated upbringing, and then, at the age of 20, he joined the British Army, being commissioned into the 23rd Regiment of Foot, the Royal Welsh Fuzileers, at the rank of second lieutenant before quickly being promoted to lieutenant. André took a leave of absence in Germany for nearly two years before re-joining his regiment in British North America in 1774.
American War for Independence
During the early days of the American War for Independence, before independence was declared by the Continental Congress, André was captured at Fort Saint-Jean by Continental Army troops under the command of General Richard Montgomery in November 1775 and held prisoner at Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He lived in the home of Caleb Cope, enjoying the freedom of the town, as André had given his word not to escape. Could you imagine this today? In December 1776, he was freed in a prisoner exchange and was promoted to the rank of captain in the 26th Regiment of Foot on January 18, 1777. In the same year, André was appointed as an aide-de-camp to Major-General Charles Grey, serving in the British expedition to capture Philadelphia and
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participating in the battles of Brandywine and Germantown. In September 1778, he accompanied Grey during Grey’s raid and was sent back to Sir Henry Clinton as a dispatch bearer. After Grey returned to England, André was appointed as an aide-de-camp to Clinton with the rank of major. André was met with a positive reception in American society, including in both Philadelphia and New York, when they were under British military occupation. He had a lively and pleasant manner and could draw, paint, and create silhouettes, as well as sing and write verse. André was a prolific writer who carried on much of Clinton’s correspondence. He was fluent in English, French, German, and Italian. He was a poet and a musician, a true Renaissance man. During his nearly nine months in Philadelphia, André lived in Benjamin Franklin’s house. While living there, he met and had an affair with a young woman…Peggy Shippen. Shippen was totally in love with André, and when he was reassigned, she was crushed. Months later, she took up with Benedict Arnold, whom she married, yet somehow stayed in touch with André, despite being left by him. Arnold was a popular general officer who had been wounded twice in battle and was considered an American hero for his actions at the Battles of Saratoga. However, he had become bitter about the decline in his financial fortunes caused by the war, and the reluctance of the Continental Congress to grant him the promotions Arnold believed he deserved. With the urgings of his wife and many, many months of correspondence, a plan was hatched. In late summer of 1780, Arnold became Commander of West Point. Weeks later, on September 20, John André sailed up the Hudson River on the Royal Navy Sloop-of-War Vulture. Arnold had two soldiers
row a small boat out to the British ship under the guise of obtaining secret intelligence. They came back with John André. The two men talked through the night, but come dawn, the Vulture was spotted and took strong cannonade fire, before skedaddling south…leaving John André deep behind the Continental Army lines to the north of New York City. Arnold persuaded André that his best option for returning to British lines was to travel overland, which meant that he would need to take off his uniform and put on civilian clothes. André carried six papers written by Arnold, which were hidden in his stocking; they detailed to the British how to take the fort. In the event that André encountered American sentries, Arnold gave him a pass allowing him to travel under the name John Anderson. Arnold departed to return to his home, and Joshua Smith escorted André a few miles north, where the two men crossed to the east side of the Hudson River at King’s Ferry. André, who had expected to travel to and from the meeting by ship while dressed in full uniform, was now traveling by road, in civilian disguise. He was now officially a spy.
The Capture of John André
Making his way south along the eastern bank of the Hudson, he came across three men, John Paulding, David Williams, and Isaac Van Wart, whom André believed might be Loyalists. Although some accounts say these three were simply looking to rob John André, others claim they were militia. They have a statue for them in Tarrytown, so we’ll go with the more honorable tale.
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However, it really went down, these three men, good or bad, saved our nation. The event is widely commemorated, notably in the painting The Capture of Major André by artist Asher Durand. André was brought before Washington and other high-ranking officers. He tried to make the case that he was a British officer and should be treated as such. If he should be treated as a prisoner of war, or if he was to be executed, that he should be executed by firing squad, which was seen as the more gentlemanly method of execution, rather than being hanged as a lowly spy. Washington, in his fury, really, at Arnold and Arnold’s betrayal, remembered the fate of young Nathan Hale, and decides on André’s execution. Still, Washington would happily have exchanged André for Benedict Arnold, but the British at that point were not willing to give Arnold back.
During all this, André is kept in a room in what is now the ’76 House, in Tappan, New York – now one of the oldest taverns in the nation. While held there, André, always an artist, created a self-portrait that survives to this day.
André’s Death
On October 2, André is brought up the hill to the gallows. Washington, who regrets having to execute André, rides away from the hanging. Stepping into a simple ox cart, André took the noose from the hangman, placed it around his own neck, and gave it a tug. Who would do that? Major John André. The Ox was slapped, and the cart rolled away. He faced his fate as a most remarkable officer and man. His last spoken words were…“Bear me witness that I met my fate a brave man.” Indeed. John André’s body hung in silence for thirty minutes before being taken down. He was placed carefully in a simple, open coffin crudely painted black. The guard detail then withdrew, and the “country people” of the villages around Tappan respectfully filed past his corpse. It was estimated that upwards of 2,000 viewed his execution, a remarkable number given the speed
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with which he had been tried and condemned. He was buried nearby, where he lay for more than four decades. In the 1820s, André was brought back to England and reinterred at Westminster Abbey, in a very prominent place. He had become a hero of the British cause, and his grave is considered almost sacred. The sarcophagus, inscribed “universally beloved and esteemed by the Army in which he served, and lamented even by his foes,” now lay alongside medieval kings, Renaissance statesmen, and Georgian poets. Arnold, on the other hand, returned to England, lived in London for the rest of his life, and died, really just despised and hated by all. Today, several historical sites can be found in the Hudson River Valley. In Tarrytown, New York, you will find a relief by Theodore Bauer, a monument to the three captors of Major André in Patriots’ Park, which was erected in 1853. Across the Hudson, in the village of Tappan, you can have a meal and some of the beer that General Washington was fond of at the ’76 House. This tavern is full of history and is well worth walking around while waiting for your meal. A copy of John André’s self-portrait is hanging there.
Just around the corner, and up a few blocks, in a fenced-off circle surrounded by modest homes, you will find a monument to André at the spot where he was hanged. It says: Here died October 2,1780 Major John André, of the British Army Who entered the American lines On a secret mission to Benedict Arnold For the surrender of West Point, Was taken prisoner, tried, and condemned as a spy His death though according to the stern Code of War moved even his enemies to pity and both armies mourned the fate of one so young and brave. ,
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SYBIL LUDINGTON • NEW YORK’S TRUE REVERE When we thought we’d mention more local revolutionary history in this issue, we would be falling short if we did not bring up the name Sybil Ludington. On the eve of April 26, 1777, news came to Henry Ludington, who was a colonel in the 7th Regiment, that the British were advancing on Danbury. The militia was scattered across the region, and Henry sent his 16-year-old daughter, Sybil, to deliver the message to gather so that they might deter the advancing redcoats. Young Sybil rode through the night, 40 miles from her family home, south through Carmel to Red Mills and then north to Kent Cliffs, Farmers Mills along to what is now Stormville and back south again home. Think of that. Paul Revere rode a borrowed horse about a dozen miles and then had it taken away by the British that same night. Sybil rode her own horse, Star, four times this. Her story and ride that night are a local legend, and along the shore of Lake Gleneida, in Carmel, New York, there is a statue in her honor created by one of the greatest women sculptors in our nation’s history, Anna Hyatt Huntington. The statue is more than life-size and depicts the little girl sitting sidesaddle on her charging horse. Sybil is wielding a tree branch to prod “Star” onward through the night, and the girl’s mouth is wide open as if in mid-scream. The statue is muscular and poetic at the same time. It is a mighty tribute to a young woman who proved herself during a dark time in America’s infancy. When we stopped by recently to take a more recent image, we were shocked that Sybil was…gone. Look at the cover of this issue. Sybil would and should have been right there. But we were relieved to learn her disappearance is just temporary, as the good people of this region have begun a long-needed restoration of Miss Ludington and Star. The restoration will include surface cleaning, patina restoration, and protective finishing. The statue’s fieldstone pedestal will also undergo inspection and repair by the Putnam County Department of Public Works. Additional site enhancements will include native plantings and landscaping improvements as well. The statue is expected to be completed and back in her proper home in time for the 4th of July. Ride on, Sybil! Ride on! IndustrY InfobItes Continued from Page 9 powertrain. Most recently, Josef Honeder was responsible for the development of powertrain and fuel supply systems. With his appointment as Head of Development at BMW Motorrad, Josef Honeder is returning to a field closely linked to his long-standing and profound passion for two-wheeled vehicles. From 2011 to 2013, he already held responsibility for various development scopes at BMW Motorrad. Thanks to his extensive development expertise, Josef Honeder is the ideal choice to continue the success story of BMW Motorrad.
BARBER DISCOVERY AND INNOVATION MOTORSPORTS FUND The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum has announced the creation of the Discovery and Innovation Motorsports Fund, a new endowment made possible through a generous gift from the Linn-Henley Charitable Trust. Established in honor of museum founder George W. Barber Jr., the fund will provide sustained support for the museum’s education initiatives, including K–12 field trips, summer camps, educator professional development, undergraduate internships, and hands-on STEM learning experiences. By expanding access to motorsports-based programs rooted in science, technology, engineering, math, and design, the fund ensures the museum can continue inspiring curiosity, creativity, and innovation for students of all backgrounds while advancing George Barber’s vision of motorsports as a powerful platform for education and discovery. ,
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The Law Office of Paul Gargiulo, P.C. presents
Welcome to the Jungle - The Art of Learning to Ride Skillfully A column dedicated to your riding survival
sIx strInG rIdInG Country music singer Eric Church brought down the house on May 9th, with his incredibly thought-provoking speech summing up the “six strings of life” to graduates of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, which has clearly struck a chord with the millions who have watched it online. “Six strings: When all six are in tune, the chords they make can stop a conversation cold, carry a broken person through the worst night of their life, or make a room full of strangers feel for three minutes like they’ve known each other forever. But if even one is off, the whole chord unravels. Not gradually, not politely. The moment you strike it, you know,” Church said while strumming along on stage. “I believe your life runs on this principle. And I’m going to break it down for you right now and tell you about your strings.” For those of us who are guitarists, this truly struck a chord (sorry)… and a warm and happy one too. Church spoke of the individual strings. The low E as your foundation, the A about how your family is an “everyday” note, and the D is about finding a spouse who amplifies your song. The G string (always an issue) about balance and resilience when the world goes sideways, the B string about putting down “real roots” in a digital world, and the high E – the thinnest string… that protects your unique melody. He spoke of how “It’s these ‘six strings of life and a willingness to keep them in tune’ that grads were urged to focus on — no matter what.” It was an amazing commencement speech, and one we highly recommend you seek out. Like all great words from other great humans, it got us thinking, and this metaphorical tone (sorry, again) can be used for many other parts of our lives. Here it will be about riding motorcycles – and thank you, Mr. Church, for your music AND your words. The low E: This is what really holds your riding together. It is that core spirit that maybe lifted you onto a saddle when you were a child and pushed you to ride motorcycles as you became an adult and on. That low E is for everything that brought you to riding and keeps you on the road. The A string is for attitude. It is how you look at your riding, your machine, your two-wheel buddies, and how you present yourself to the rest of the world when walking with gear on, or on the road.
You work on your riding. You come to the motorcycle with the realization that you can always, always get better, and you strive to do this. Just like the rest of your life. The D is easy – it’s for dress. There is a reason MotoGP racers wear full leathers and protective helmets. It is not just about protection for yourself, but for your family, which might have two outcomes of a bad incident. One where they are sorry this happened, but they’re so happy you are at the dinner table. The other outcome? You know what that could be. Buy real gear. Wear real gear. The pesky G string. Like Eric’s talk, the G string is about the things that will definitely come your way. When we talked about this article, Shira quickly said “gravel.” Indeed. Gravel can be difficult, but with faith, skill, and knowing where you need to look, head towards, and get to - like the bad things in life - you will get through the gravel. Be it “very small rocks,” hard rain, breakdowns, or just gravity. Keep an eye on the G, but do not fret it. (OMG! So, sorry again. Really.) I’ll just say the B string is about the beauty that motorcycles and the people who ride them bring into our lives. It is said that in a car we watch a movie. On a motorcycle, we are part of the movie. The heat, cold, sun, and rain are all part of a “Surround Sound” film. It has “Smellovision” too – just ride by a recently manured field and tell me I’m wrong. Revel in that, my friends. It is part of the magic that motorcycles are. The high E is for everything above. As we know, it is the thinnest string. The easiest to break, and it will – usually at the worst time. But when tuned correctly, it is this skinny string that brings it all together – the melody, as Church said. We wonder if he rides?
All six strings of a motorcycle must be nurtured, taken care of, and, most importantly, work together and be in tune with each other. You get that right, and you and your motorcycle are going to make some beautiful music together. ,