Ted Gilchrist’s passing at the age of 73 may not have caught the attention of many in the ski industry in this age of Intrawests, Vail Associates and American Skiing Companies. You see, for nearly 40 years, Ted was a tireless volunteer at a tiny little community ski area in Franklin, N.H.
The area’s somewhat cumbersome name is the Veteran’s Memorial Recreational Area. It was established as a tribute to the men and women who served their country during the second World War. Through the efforts of men with names like Ted, “Doc,” Sheldon, Bob, “Squeek,” Gene and Mickey—along with the support of their wives, families and many others—a forested slope in central New Hampshire has been gradually transformed into a living, working memorial.
The hill started with a single slope, serviced by a mitten-burning rope tow that was powered by an old tractor mounted on an open deck. Over the years, these men and families, collectively known as the Franklin Outing Club, faithfully built the lodge, cut new trails and, by hook and by crook, acquired worn-out equipment. Through what can only be attributed to Yankee ingenuity, the equipment was restored and the hill expanded to include a newer rope tow, T-bar and skating pond. Second-, third- and fourth-generation volunteers continue to staff and maintain the area and its facilities.
The area provides an affordable and wholesome family wintertime experience for Franklin residents and those of many surrounding communities. Through lean snow years and fluctuating economic health, this little area has survived to host an annual Winter Carnival, provide ski lessons and to introduce new members to the sports of skiing and snowboarding.
Ted died suddenly of natural causes on Thursday, August 13. At the time of his death he was, as we all would have expected, working at the ski area. Fittingly, his memorial service was held there, too—at this tiny area that in many ways is perhaps larger than the mega-resorts on which our attention is usually focused.
About the author—Born and raised in Franklin, N.H., Gary Mayo was introduced to skiing and the ski industry through working with men like his father and Ted at this little area.
