The White Cupboard Inn flourished in this 1794 house from 1925 through the 1960’s. In January 1934, at the instigation of three middle-aged guests, the owners, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Royce, developed plans in the front dining room for the construction of the first rope ski tow in the United States. Within a few weeks, the tow, powered by a Model T engine, was successfully carrying skiers to the top of farmer Clinton Gilbert’s hill pasture just north of the village. Almost overnight, the first ski area and a burgeoning multi-million dollar industry were born, allowing skiers to make many downhill runs without the physical exertion formerly required to climb the hill for only a few runs a day.

Photo: Rev. Ronald Irick

Photo: Rev. Ronald Irick

Photo: Rev. Ronald Irick

Photo: Rev. Ronald Irick

Photo: Rev. Ronald Irick

Photo: Rev. Ronald Irick

West Woodstock, Vermont · USA