The Oldest Motorcycle Club in the World was Founded in Illinois

One of my favorite shows was Sons of Anarchy. It opened my eyes to motorcycles, and even more, motorcycle clubs. Illinois has a big history with motorcycle clubs, it's home to one of the oldest clubs in the world.

Founded in the mid-30s The Outlaws were founded by Electro-Motice Company employees who sat at a famous bar Matilda's Bar. According to 24/7 Tempo, the club broke up soon after when World War II started but regrouped post-war at a motorcycle rally at Soldier Field.

Crime

Now, I don't think this club was doing half the stuff that Sons of Anarchy was, but the club has been known to have a long-standing rivalry with the Hells Angels. Violence between the two clubs has taken place with losses on both sides.

There have even been deaths on both sides regarding this feud. Additionally, they are also allegedly involved in drug trafficking, extortion, money laundering, prostitution rings, and weapons trafficking.

Currently, the American Outlaws Association has the club as the third-largest motorcycle club in the nation with 3,000 members, and 441 chapters in 43 countries. That's no small club.

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To have one of the oldest clubs in the world from Illinois is kind of awesome. I have never ridden a bike (it scares me) but when I see bikers on the road it does look like a ton of fun. Especially on a long road trip driving and seeing all of America. that just sounds like a fun time.