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A Visit to Herdan Corporation

In June 2004 I made a visit to Herdan Corporation in Port Clinton, Pennsylvania, formerly the US importer for Moto Morini motorcycles. I had a wonderful time with Herman "Hermy" Baver and Kathy Gassert, stayed at Hermy's historic Union House B&B, drank Hermy's home-made red wine, rooted around in the Moto Morini parts, and saw Hermy's personal collection of motorcycles, which includes some very interesting Moto Morinis. The main business at Herdan now is the distribution of Franco Morini engines, Dell'orto carburetors, and Bitubo shock absorbers, but the Moto Morini spares business is still active as well. Hermy and Kathy work longer hours here than you do, so the next time there's a delay in getting your parts, take a deep breath and relax. There is no one else here. Kathy doesn't know the Moto Morini parts as well as Hermy does, so your order often requires him to do the searching. He's usually doing ten things at once. It's not a "normal" business, but Moto Morinis are not for "normal" motorcyclists. Having made the personal connection with Hermy and Kathy makes my involvement with the marque that much more satisfying. Thanks!

Happy Birthday Hermy!

(born August 20, 1936)

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Exterior of Herdan Corp building. Hermy uses the first floor. Enter through the gray door. In addition to Moto Morini, they handle Franco Morini kick-butt engines, Dell'orto carbs, and Bitubo shock absorbers.
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There's no sign except this little note.
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Once inside you'll find Kathy at her command post.
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The Treasure Room, lots of Moto Morini parts, but organization is a bit of a problem.
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Hermy pauses from packing orders.
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This is it: Herdan Corp. Things get a little hectic sometimes.
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In addition to Herdan Corp, Hermy (with a lot of help from Kathy) runs the Union House B&B 2 blocks away. This is the bar area.
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Hermy often takes over the kitchen of the Union House. Italian is a specialty!