In 1947 the idea to form a motorcycle parade unit and a drill team, with the mystique of the Harley-Davidson motorcycle, was generated at a meeting of the Drum and Bugle Corps and members of the Jackson County Shrine Club. This idea led to a special meeting Jan. 23, 1948, and the first election of officers was held. In July of 1948, several members went to get approval from the Imperial Council, and returned with a charter as the First Harley-Davidson motorcycle units to not only represent Ararat Shrine Center but the Imperial Council of North America as well. As a matter of history and fact, records indicate that this unit was the first organized two-wheeled unit to be sanctioned by the Imperial Council.

The Ararat Motor corps was a primary leader in the establishment of the Central States Association of Shrine Motor Corps and the International Association of Shrine Motor Corps. Ararat has had members participate as Line Officers and Presidents of both organizations and regularly competes in drill, obstacle course and slow ride competitions in both organizations. Ararat Motor Corps boasts a very high percentage of "First Place" wins in all competitions competed.