Embark on a unique journey through history with the Sitzski—an innovative contraption that offers riders a comfortable, seated glide down the slopes while symbolizing the inventive spirit of alpine exploration. Buckle up, snow enthusiasts! Tucked away in our museum's collection is a piece that not only defies convention but also represents a unique chapter in the history of alpine innovation—the Sitzski. Donated in 2001 by Mary Hite, this unconventional contraption is more than just a ski; … [Read more...] about Sitzski
Collection Highlights-History
Chinese Liquor Bottle
This Chinese liquor bottle from the 1880s was found by a local resident near Nay Aug mine, between Hailey and Ketchum. Nestled within the rugged landscapes of Central Idaho lies a relic that not only speaks of cross-cultural connections, but also unveils a chapter in the state's history marked by a significant presence of Chinese immigrants. This Chinese liquor bottle from the 1880s, discovered near Nay Aug Mine by local resident Ray Brooks, is newly acquired to the museum’s collection … [Read more...] about Chinese Liquor Bottle
Red Cloche Hat with Pin
This cloche hat is made from red wool felt and is decorated with a small pin of a mountain climbing ax with a climbing rope coiled around it and a travel souvenir charm attached. The shield charm is a landscape with the word “ Pordoi” printed across the top. This likely refers to the Passo Pordoi, located up high in the Italian Dolomites. Beatrice "Bebe" O. Haemmerle, owner of the hat, moved to Sun Valley from the Midwest in 1947 and settled. She married the painter and mountaineer, … [Read more...] about Red Cloche Hat with Pin
George Matsumoto Scrapbook, 1972
George Matsumoto was a local legend in the Wood River Valley. An avid photo doumentarian, he contributed a record of central Idaho 1970s recreational life. He worked as a chef at the Ore House in Sun Valley. Today there is a plaque at the bar in the Pioneer Restaurant in Ketchum commemorating where you could find him most nights. … [Read more...] about George Matsumoto Scrapbook, 1972
Protectograph Check Writer
This Todd Protectograph Company check writer was used in the Griffith Grocery store. The store was opened around 1926 and was located on the corner of Main Street and First Avenue in Ketchum, where Sun Valley Culinary Institute is today. The Todd Protectograph Company advertised that the protectograph check writer protected businesses from fraudulent changes because the machine printed precise amounts across the check. From the Mary Jane and Dave Conger … [Read more...] about Protectograph Check Writer
Handmade Rolling Pin
A rolling pin that was handmade by the donor’s grandfather, “Grandpa Hallis,” in his shop. The pin was brought over the plains in 1853. From the Delaurice Moser Collection (1996.28.04), Center for Regional History. … [Read more...] about Handmade Rolling Pin
