Housed in the sprawling Hockanum Mill complex, the New England Motorcycle Museum (NEMM) is a relic of New England’s 19th-century textile industry and a shrine to motorcycle history.
But in early 2021, this dream nearly collapsed under the weight of a leaking roof. Here’s how a grassroots rally, fueled by passionate riders and bolstered by federal support, saved a cornerstone of motorcycle heritage.
From Textile Mill to Motorcycle Mecca
Founded by Ken Kaplan, a die-hard motorcyclist with a knack for reviving forgotten treasures, NEMM opened in 2018 after years of sweat and loans.
Kaplan transformed the dilapidated Hockanum Mill—a site dating back to 1814—into a vibrant space showcasing over 25 motorcycle brands, rare memorabilia, and a working restoration shop, Kaplan Cycles.
Ken Kaplan Saves NEMM
The museum’s unique model pairs nonprofit education with for-profit bike sales, funneling auction proceeds back into preservation.
But old mills come with old problems. By early 2021, a 20,000-square-foot section of the complex, still unrestored, faced a crisis. Winter storms had battered its roof, leaving gaping holes, soggy floors, and cascading leaks. Kaplan sounded the alarm: Without immediate repairs, the building risked collapse, threatening millions already invested—including $4 million in state loans.
Danger of Collapsing
In February 2021, Kaplan launched a GoFundMe campaign with a clear goal: Raise $50,000 to replace the roof. The total cost? $100,000.
He offered free museum tickets, engraved plaques for 1,000+ contributions, and even naming rights for a $100,000 pledge to entice donors. Early momentum saw $11,690 raised from 170 supporters—a start but far from the finish line.
This wasn’t Kaplan’s first crowdfunding rodeo. Past efforts, like a failed $250,000 Kickstarter, underscored the challenges of funding a project this massive. But this time, the call resonated.
Motorcycle media outlets like Ride CT and RideApart amplified the urgency, sharing videos of water gushing through the roof. Kaplan’s YouTube channel, “Kaplan America,” became a hub for raw updates, blending desperation with determination.
Damaged NEMM Roof
How Federal Grants Sealed the Deal
While the GoFundMe campaign showcased community spirit, the real game-changer arrived in April 2022: a $500,000 federal grant secured by U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney.
This wasn’t just a Band−Aid—it was part of a 1 million federal infusion targeting “roof repair and infrastructure stabilization” for the crumbling mill. Combined with earlier state loans and brownfield grants, public funding became the project’s financial backbone.
The timing was critical. Though the GoFundMe likely funded temporary fixes, the federal grants addressed the root issue. By late 2024, TripAdvisor reviews praised NEMM’s “immaculate” collection and “friendly staff,” with zero mentions of leaks or structural woes—proof the roof rescue worked.
Preservation vs. Pragmatism in Motorcycle Culture
NEMM’s crisis mirrors a broader tension in heritage preservation: Should we preserve history as-is or restore it for modern use? Organizations like the Antique Motorcycle Club of America (AMCA) prioritize originality, valuing every scratch and patina. But when a roof caves in, pragmatism wins.
Kaplan’s team chose restoration—repairing floors, removing hazards, and stabilizing structures—to ensure the museum’s survival. This aligns with industry best practices, where systematic approaches (like those taught at the Barber Vintage Festival) balance historical respect with functionality. For NEMM, a safe, visitor-ready space was non-negotiable.
Hybrid Funding Fuels Heritage
The roof rescue wasn’t just about shingles and beams—it was a lesson in resilience. NEMM’s survival hinged on a hybrid model:
- Community goodwill: Riders chipped in, proving grassroots support matters.
- Entrepreneurial grit: Kaplan Cycles’ profits kept the lights on.
- Government investment: Federal and state funds tackled big-ticket repairs.
Rep. Courtney noted that preserving sites like Hockanum Mill combats “natural degradation” while revitalizing communities.
Today, NEMM stands as a beacon for riders and history buffs alike. Check out their vintage bike auctions, swing by Kaplan Cycles, or simply wander the mill’s restored halls.
And if you spot Ken Kaplan, thank him—not just for saving a roof, but for proving that passion and persistence can steer any project out of a skid.
