Who Invented the Snowmobile?

The first snowmobile was built in 1924 by a 25-year-old Sayner resident named Carl Eliason. An avid sportsman, Eliason had a foot disability that prevented him from trekking on snowshoes. After attempting to retrofit a Ford Model T with skis, he began work on a different machine, working in a garage behind the then-new General Store.

Eliason’s invention was a hand-built marvel that would lead to some great things. It was essentially a wooden toboggan paired with skis, which were controlled by ropes. The machine was powered by a 2.5-horsepower liquid-cooled Johnson outboard boat motor, which powered a steel track. He called it a “motor toboggan.” The machine was primitive compared to a modern snowmobile, but it introduced components that are featured in every snowmobile made today. Other inventors developed machines that traveled over the snow, but many believe Eliason’s machine represents the first true snowmobile.

Eliason patented his “motor toboggan” and manufactured 40 of the machines until 1939 when he sold the manufacturing rights to the FWD Corporation. That company continued building the vehicles and once sold 150 of the machines to the U.S. Army to help defend Alaska. New competitors eventually emerged, and the final motor toboggan was produced in 1964.

Want to see this groundbreaking invention for yourself? You’ll find the world’s first snowmobile at the Vilas County Historical Museum in Sayner. The museum has an interesting collection of early snowmobiles, including Eliason’s machine.

Take a ride through the beauty and heritage of Sayner-Star Lake. Request a free visitor guide and plan a winter getaway.