Vermont Honors Birthplace of Burton Snowboards with Dedicated Marker
The state of Vermont, along with snowboard enthusiasts and local history buffs, gathered to dedicate a site in honor of Burton Snowboards, a brand that played a significant role in the rise of snowboarding as a popular winter sport. The small blue sign, located near the birthplace of the company in Londonderry, commemorates the humble beginnings of Burton Snowboards and its contribution to the sport's growth. The event was attended by the Vermont Division for Historic Preservation, recognizing the historical significance of the first Burton snowboards.
Jake Burton, the founder of Burton Snowboards, established the company in 1977, setting the stage for a revolution in winter recreation. The original factory in Londonderry, unfortunately, was lost in a fire, but it remains a critical part of snowboarding history. The marker serves as a reminder of where the first Burton snowboards were invented and where the company's early prototypes were created.
Born in New York in 1954, Burton's passion for skiing led him to start "Burton Boards" in Londonderry after leaving his job in New York. He worked out of a barn in a house where he also served as a caretaker and tended to horses. Although the original workshop site is not available for preservation, the dedication marker at Williams Park in Londonderry pays tribute to Burton's legacy.
Burton Snowboards, now headquartered in Burlington, continues to be a prominent player in the snowboarding industry. To further celebrate Burton's impact, the Londonderry Arts and Historical Society is hosting an exhibit about the company until October 8th. The dedication of the marker and the exhibit serve as a testament to Vermont's recognition of the birthplace of Burton Snowboards and its significant contribution to the sport of snowboarding.
Impact of Burton Snowboards' Legacy on New Businesses
The recognition of Burton Snowboards' birthplace in Vermont offers a valuable lesson for new businesses. The story of Burton Snowboards, from its humble beginnings in a barn to its status as a leading player in the snowboarding industry, is a testament to the power of innovation, passion, and resilience.
Inspiration for Startups
For startups, particularly those in the sports and recreation sector, Burton's journey can serve as both an inspiration and a blueprint. His innovative approach to product development, combined with his passion for skiing and snowboarding, drove the company's growth and revolutionized winter sports.
Lessons in Resilience
Moreover, the tale of the original factory, which was lost in a fire but remains a critical part of snowboarding history, offers a lesson in resilience. It shows that setbacks can be overcome and that they can even become part of a company's unique narrative.
In conclusion, the dedication of the marker in honor of Burton Snowboards is not just a celebration of the brand's contribution to snowboarding, but also a reminder of the potential that lies in entrepreneurship, innovation, and resilience.