Hey Area Short by Taylor Caldwell

 

Since their chapter’s founding in 1954, the Frisco Hells Angels have been a topic of fear, fascination and mystery in the Bay Area.

Sixty-five years later, people still have mixed opinions. So, I had to find out for myself.

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I make my way down Tennessee street. Construction workers next to me are completing yet another shiny new condo in the heart of Dogpatch. 

At the end of the street, there’s one building that hasn’t been touched: the Hells Angels Clubhouse. 

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After weeks of attempts, one member gave us a tour of the clubhouse. Only condition: no photos, no audio recorder. 

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The Hells Angels don’t talk, but the walls of their clubhouse certainly do. Memorabilia is plastered from floor to ceiling, telling the story of a decades old brotherhood.

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There’s a flag above the bar from the Altamont Free Concert in 1969. The Rolling Stones hired the Hells Angels as security, and a member infamously killed somebody in the crowd.

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In the back, a biblical etching depicts a bloody triumph of an epic brawl with a rival gang.

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Scattered throughout are altars dedicated to fallen members. Their vests are framed and encased with photos and articles. They hang above pristine bikes, completely built or restored in honor of them.

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Visit dogpatchna.org/scavenger-hunt to join the community fun as our gift to you during this year's "holidays at home" Shelter in Place.