The Steve Gordon Tony Wise Museum Legacy Fund

Purpose: Supports the operations and expansion of the Tony Wise Museum of the American Birkebeiner, celebrating the history and legacy of cross-country skiing that inspires healthier lifestyles and outdoor activity.

Background: Steve Gordon took up cross-country skiing after a severe heart attack in 1979 on cardiologist's recommendation. His passion for skiing and the sport's life-saving impact led him to become a Birchlegger, two-time World Loppet Master, and Global World Loppet Skier. He collected extensive cross-country ski art and memorabilia from around the world during his skiing travels across the U.S., Canada, Scandinavia, Europe, Asia, and Australia. In 2017, Steve's Birkie training and conditioned heart helped him survive a severe ventricular tachycardia episode.

Collection Details: Diverse collection including:

• Fine art: oil paintings, watercolors
• Decorative media: batik, blown glass, stained glass, etched glass, lucite, metal
• Functional items: mugs (clay, metal, leather, etched glass)
• Figures: wood, ceramic, metal, pinecones, business cards
• Collectibles: posters, coasters, pottery, hanging mobiles, stamps, snow globes, luminaries, nutcrackers, door knockers, medals, pins, puppets, lighters, trolls, Christmas decorations, ornaments
• Themes: men, women, couples, animals, Santa's, Scandinavian mythical creatures, moose, bears, dogs, mice (including Mickey and Minnie Mouse)

Display Locations:

• Three metal sculptures along the walkway to SC Johnson Outdoor Center at OO Trailhead
• Rotating display cabinet in Tony Wise Museum at Hub Building at Mt. Telemark Village

Types of Gifts Accepted:

• Planned gifts: bequest in a will, charitable remainder trust
• Outright gifts: cash, stock, property, IRA required minimum distribution (RMD)

Organization: Foundation for the Endowment of the American Birkebeiner, EIN 81-1350039