JAY –– A new historical exhibit at the Montgomery Center for the Arts (MCA) titled “Skiing Through Time” celebrates the long-standing relationship between Jay Peak Resort and its neighboring towns, particularly Montgomery, since the resort opened in 1957.
The exhibit, curated by Suzanne Dollois and Kyle Saltzman, features vintage ski gear and ephemera from local enthusiasts and Jay Peak Resort, spanning the development of the sport.
The connection between the resort and the surrounding communities began in 1956 when six towns agreed to fund the reconstruction of a highway to Jay Peak, bringing economic growth and recreational opportunities to the region.
The 1960s marked a significant decade for Jay Peak, with the installation of its first chairlift in 1960, the opening of the summit to skiers via a double chair in 1965, and the launch of the iconic 60-passenger aerial tramway in 1966.
Despite ups and downs, including a financial fraud scandal that sent its owners to prison in 2022, Jay Peak continues to thrive under new management, attracting visitors from Vermont and Canada.
The exhibit, which runs until mid-April, has drawn a diverse crowd to the MCA, sparking conversations and storytelling about the deep community connections forged through the shared love of skiing.
