Friday, July 11, 2014

How Walter Paepcke Popularized Skiing



Walter Paepcke was an American industrialist, business executive and philanthropist who rose to prominence in the mid-20th century. Paepcke served as the executive of Container Corporation of America at one point and was the founder of Aspen Institute and Aspen Skiing Company. He reshaped skiing and placed Aspen, Colorado on the map as the first choice of a destination for vacation and skiing in the US.

In 1949, Aspen became the venue for the celebration of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s 200th birthday anniversary through the efforts of Paepcke. A few celebrities were at the celebration. In 1950, Paepcke established what is known today as Aspen Institute. Thereafter, Paepcke promoted Aspen through posters and other design works created by Bauhaus renowned designer Herbert Bayer.

Through his wife, Elizabeth, the Paepckes also opened the Aspen Music Festival School where Walter Paepcke served as the director. He stepped down from the position in 1954 following his appointment of Mack Harrell as his replacement.

Being a wealthy man, Paepcke used his fortunes for the benefits of others, especially for educational foundations.

No comments:

Post a Comment