Welcome to Sayner, Wisconsin, a small town with a big historical claim to fame: being the birthplace of the world’s first snowmobile. This story begins in the early 20th century when Carl Eliason, a local lumber dealer, sought a solution for traversing the snowy terrain of Wisconsin’s Northwoods during the harsh winter months. In 1924, Eliason crafted what would become the world’s first snowmobile, then known as the ‘motor toboggan.’ Using a 2.5 horsepower Johnson Outboard motor, parts from a Model T Ford, bicycle chains, and skis, Eliason ingeniously combined these elements to create a machine capable of gliding over snow. His invention was not only practical but marked the beginning of a new era in winter transportation.
Eliason’s invention quickly gained attention, and by 1927, he had patented his design. Initially building and selling around 40 machines, Eliason’s creation caught the eye of the FWD Company in Clintonville, Wisconsin, which purchased the patent and began production on a larger scale. This partnership allowed the snowmobile to evolve from a local innovation to an essential vehicle for snow-covered regions, even garnering interest internationally.
The Vilas Historical Museum in Sayner now proudly displays the first Eliason snowmobile, along with a collection of every model of ‘motor toboggan’ built by Eliason and FWD. This museum offers visitors a glimpse into the ingenuity and resourcefulness that characterized early 20th-century innovations.
Beyond Eliason’s snowmobile, the museum also showcases a wide array of artifacts from the area’s history, including logging tools and an extensive doll collection. And outside the museum, statues of the legendary folk hero Paul Bunyan and his blue ox, Babe, greet visitors, adding a touch of whimsy to this historical landmark.
The snowmobile’s invention is more than just a point of local pride; it represents a significant advancement in how people adapted to and thrived in snowy environments, influencing the development of similar vehicles worldwide. So, as you explore Sayner, remember the legacy of Carl Eliason, whose innovative spirit left a lasting impact on winter transportation.
