Sun Valley History & Museums: Ketchum / Sun Valley Heritage & Ski Museum

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Ketchum / Sun Valley Heritage & Ski Museum

Did you know that the first chair lift ever to be used on a ski hill was used at Sun Valley Resort? This is just a piece of the history of Sun Valley and its relationship to skiing that can be explored at the Ketchum/Sun Valley Heritage and Ski Museum. This Museum's focus is on preserving the history of the Upper Wood River Valley and it associated history with the ski industry. Read More

Located in downtown Ketchum, Idaho, the Ketchum/Sun Valley Heritage & Ski Museum is a fascinating place to visit and explore. From meager beginnings in 1989, the Museum is currently housed in two buildings that include museum exhibits, offices and a gift shop. There is a third building dedicated by the Museum to be used as workspace and as storage for the area's archives.

One of the features of the Ketchum/Sun Valley Heritage & Ski Museum is an exhibit on the life of Ernest Hemingway in the Wood River Valley. Hemingway was an integral part of the community and he spent his later years in the Valley. Hemingway is also buried at the Ketchum cemetery and a memorial has been erected in his honor.

The Ketchum/Sun Valley Historical Society maintains the Museum and is dedicated to the interpretation and preservation of the history and heritage of the Wood River Valley and to provide educational opportunities for local residents and visitors. By 2000, the Sawtooth Science Institute and the Ketchum/Sun Valley Historical Society joined together to continue to develop and expand educational programs.