The History of Snowmobiling
The modern day snowmobile received its start during the early part of the twentieth century. Initially, snowmobiles were big and cumbersome. Today, they are sleek, fast and built for one or multiple riders.
Early Snowmobile History
In 1908, the Lombard log hauler was constructed in Waterville, Maine. It looked like a steam train with front skis and a half-track layout. Later in 1913, Virgil White transformed a Model-T Ford into a snow transport unit with a ski device and a track mechanism and invented the term “snowmobile.”
Earl Eliason’s Contribution
During 1924, Earl Eliason invented one of most unique snowmobiles. He called the machine a motor toboggan, which was an apt title as the snow transport device featured a wooden bobsled equipped with two skis, an outboard motor and ropes for steering. When drivers went snowmobiling with Mr. Eliason’s machine, the unit’s limitless steel-cleated track pushed them forward. Furthermore, the snowmobile featured a front-mounted engine with liquid cooling and a jackshaft. These early additions helped form today’s snowmobiles. Eliason requested a patent for his design and continued selling it until 1939. However, later that year, F.W.D. Corporation in Canada purchased his patent. The Canadian company made the snow conveying machines until 1960.
Later Snowmobiles
During the 1930s, 40s, and 50s, a number of snowmobiles were invented including air driven units and half-track machines. David Johnson, who was partners with Edgar and Alan Hetteen from Polaris Industries, designed a snowmobile called the Polaris Snow Traveler. During 1957, Polaris gradually stopped making farm gear and transitioned into manufacturing snowmobiles full time. In the 1960s, Arctic Cat created a new suspension for the machine by changing out the bogie wheels with a set of slide rails. The new design provided a faster and smoother ride.
Overall, a few early innovators made snowmobiling into the recreational activity that it is today. Since modern snowmobiles feature advancements like batteries and windshields, today’s snow machines provide riders with handy features such as heated grips, security systems and electric starters.
