The Birth of the Modern Snowmobile

Ever since moving to the Wisconsin Northwoods, I have been increasingly amazed at the eclectic and inspiring collection of people who live up here and Carl Eliason is no exception. Born in the Upper Peninsula, Carl's family moved to Sayner, Wisconsin in 1909 when he was 10. Due to a disability he was born with, he was unable to access much of the land during the winter months due to the snow. And so, out of necessity, he designed and built a variety of snow machines that enabled him to move quickly across winter landscapes. His designs eventually became a key part of the development of the modern snowmobile and his story is yet another example of why I love living up here so much. This area seems to attract all manner of unassuming yet brilliant individuals who are doing incredible things, often without recognition. When I first heard Carl’s story, I knew it was a story worth telling and I am honored to have the opportunity to tell it.