Established in 1968, the American Water Ski Educational Foundation was formed with the unique vision of preserving and spreading awareness about what is now one of the most popular recreational activities in the country.
In keeping with this noteworthy mission, the Water Ski Hall of Fame commemorates some of the most accomplishments in this filed, which have influenced the development and evolution of this sport through the years. The museum also has a number of permanent collections which recount the history of this sport with one-of-a-kind artifacts like the first pair of water skis, which was worn by the renowned Ralph Samuelson. Known as the 'Father of Water Skiing', Ralph Samuelson holds a unique place in the Water Ski Hall of Fame, which a bronze bust dedicated to him. Some of the other memorabilia displayed in the Water Ski Hall of Fame include outboard motors, which date back to the early 1920s, rare photographs of some of the earliest proponents of this sport, while also the numerous trophies that have been awarded to distinguished water skiers over the ages as a token to their immense contribution to the sport.
The Museum archives are home to an extensive assortment of over 12,000 water-skiing memorabilia, which ranges from early to modern day water skis, ropes, handles, wetsuits and boats to vintage and modern-day books, film and video dedications to the sport. Water-ski enthusiasts will also delight in the prolific audio-visual library, which is touted to be the most comprehensive of its ilk. The American Water Ski Educational Foundation also conducts a number of educational programs from time to time to offer budding enthusiasts to update their skills, while also several scholarships to encourage deserving up-and-coming talent with financial aid.
The Water Ski Museum and Hall of Fame welcomes visitors from10 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday. You can also call ahead to arrange for a docent-guided tour to gain further insights into the legacy of information that the museum stores. Admission is priced at about $5 per person, with special discounts for children and seniors.
