Auto Road opens Philbrook Red Barn museum
Published Date
The Mount Washington Auto dedicated the Douglas A. Philbrook Red Barn Museum May 19, recognizing the lifetime of service and commitment of the former Auto Road general manager and president, who passed away in 2001.Family members, company directors and shareholders all gathered at the museum, which is located behind the main base lodge on Route 16 in Pinkham Notch. Current Mount Washington Summit Road Company president Sam Appleton joined Andrea Philbrook (Doug's widow) for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to formally open the newly-named facility to the public. The museum collection, which was largely brought together by Doug Philbrook, features rare horse drawn and motor vehicles and a diverse array of memorabilia that comprises much of the Auto Road's 150-year history.
"One of the most outstanding qualities about Doug was that whether it was searching out items for the museum or collecting his White Mountain maps, books and prints, he always wanted to share this history and his passion for it," Andrea Philbrook said.
Perhaps Philbrook's legacy is best summed up by the new display piece that will hang in the museum which features several pictures and these words:
“Douglas Philbrook, 1916-2001
"Mount Washington Auto Road general manager, president and inspirational leader.
"White Mountain historian and collector, outdoorsman, WWII veteran, jack-of-many-trades, mentor, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend.”
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A legendary “Man of the Mountain,” Philbrook left his indelible mark on Mount Washington and in the hearts of all who knew him. Many of the rare artifacts on display in the museum are only here thanks to his tireless years of seeking out these treasures, always in the hope that they would find their way back home to the Auto Road, according to Auto Road general manager Howie Wemyss and marketing director Steve Caming.
“For those who knew him, Doug Philbrook's spirit will always be a part of this place,” said Caming.
The eight-mile long Mount Washington Auto Road opened to the top for its 151st season May 19. For more information, call 466-3988 or online at www.mtwashingtonautoroad.co
