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Posted on Sat, Sep 26, 2009 : 5:46 a.m.

Iron Coffin motorcycle club reopens in Ypsilanti

By Emma Kat Richardson

Aside from a mutual love of all things motorcycle, nothing about the members of the Iron Coffins Motorcycle Club is typical. 

Despite a roughneck, down-and-dirty image, this gang of Harley lovers are as far from ruffian as one could get.

The troop is devoted to helping eradicate the motorcycle gang stereotype through its various charitable acts and sponsorships. Across the country, each chapter is responsible for adopting a charity and committing to it. And the seven-member chapter in Ypsilanti is doing its part.

“We originated out of Ohio, and of course we branched out to have chapters all over the place,” said Stormy, president of the Washtenaw County chapter, who wouldn't reveal his real name. “Out here, we like to do a lot for kids - years ago, we used to do a toy run out to (C.S.) Mott Children’s Hospital. This year, we’re going to adopt families for Christmas, and stuff like that.”

The Iron Coffins closed its doors more than five years ago due to a dwindling membership and an inability to afford the rent on its Michigan Avenue clubhouse. But the motorcycle club is now back in action in Ypsilanti. 

Its new building, located at 75 Catherine St., is owned by businessman Woodrow Sloan and used to be a laundry, according to the Ypsilanti Building Department.

Reopening Sept. 5, the Ypsilanti-based members of the Iron Coffins say they're ready to get back in the saddle. This year, the club is gearing up to lend a helping hand to families, children, the blind, and the less than fortunate of Ypsilanti.

“Fundraisers - we do a big toy drive; and when we have a big party at the club, we charge admission to get in the door, and give all the proceeds to the kids,” said Stormy. “We’re going to do some things for the children’s hospital here; in the third week of November, we’re going to adopt a family for Christmas, and that’s where I’m at right now. Everything has been happening so fast, it’s hard for me to even describe what things I want to do.”


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Sat, Sep 26, 2009 : 9:48 p.m.

wow... didn't anyone google this club before we printed this warm and fuzzy "helping other people" thing...?????