Press Release –
The International Snowmobile Hall of Fame (ISHOF) is now located in the World Snowmobile Headquarters (WSHQ) in Eagle River, Wisconsin. Elmer Cone and his family, who founded the program and kept it going for 20 years, have decided to “retire” from the administration of ISHOF and pass the duties over to the World Snowmobile Headquarters.
All phases and administration of ISHOF will now be handled from the Eagle River facility including induction ceremonies.
“We are excited about the move to Eagle River and pledge to continue to promote and give credit to the people and machines that have created and maintain the great sport of snowmobiling,” states Scott Eilertson, newly elected president of ISHOF and a 2005 Inductee.
“It is extremely impressive to see the photo plaques of the 74 very important and dedicated people that have done so much to create and develop our sport. They deserve a great place of honor and the new location showcases their induction into the very prestigious International Snowmobile Hall of Fame,” Eilertson adds.
Newly elected ISHOF officers (and their induction dates) are: Scott Eilertson (2005), president; Tom Anderson (2002), vice-president and secretary; Dave Carmichael (2005), treasurer. Directors are: Jerry Bassett (1996), Russ Davis, Dave Guenther, Dave Johnson, Larry Koch (1999), Les Ollilia, DeLyle Pankratz, Steve Pierce, Bill Schumann (1997) and Joann Smith.
ISHOF was founded in 1984 by Elmer Cone to honor the people who were instrumental in the development of the recreational side of snowmobiling and has been located in Bovey, MN. Health issues and the desire to bring more exposure to ISHOF is the reason for the move to Eagle River. Elmer was inducted into the Hall in 2007. Special recognition is given to him for his insight and dedication in the creation, development and operation of the program. He now serves as Director Emeritus of International Snowmobile Hall of Fame in their new location in Eagle River.
Opened three years ago, the World Snowmobile Headquarters is already home to several other snowmobile organizations.
“Right from the start of the “HQ” project, we learned of other groups interested in exposure in the facility. Now, seven more groups or organizations are showcased. They are: World Championship Snowmobile Derby Walls of Fame, Antique and Vintage Snowmobile Clubs, International Groomer Operator of the Year, Iron Dog Brigade, Women on Snow, Kitty Cat Racers and Thirsty Dogs. We finished off the project with a large snowmobile oriented gift shop and video viewing room,” states Tom Anderson, World Snowmobile Headquarters president.
“The concept of having several groups under one roof gives snowmobilers more to see and learn as they wander about our multi-faceted facility,” Anderson explains.
On display in the museum rooms are over 85 antique and vintage sleds, all under the watchful eyes of the 74 inductees into the International Snowmobile Hall of Fame. Over 250 photos from past Derby races are also on display.
Visitors can explore the 6,250 square feet of displays that provide a look back into the history of snowmobiling and the pioneers of the sport. The gift shop offers scores of snowmobile related items ranging from books, magazines, clothing, videos and other novelty items. All this with free admission.
The International Snowmobile Hall of Fame and World Snowmobile Headquarters are located at 1521 N. Railroad Street (Hwy 45 North just 200 feet north of the Derby Track) and open six days a week from 10 am-4 pm (closed Sundays). Telephone: 715-479-2186 or check out the website at: www.worldsnowmobilehq.com
