The invention of "fake snow" is a bit nuanced, as the question could refer to the invention of the snow cannon, or the first commercial use of artificial snow.
Snow Cannons and Artificial Snow Creation
The individuals most directly associated with the invention of the snow cannon are Art Hunt, Dave Richey, and Wayne Pierce. They are credited with inventing the snow cannon in 1950, though they secured a patent sometime later. This machine is what makes the artificial snow, which is actually very similar to real snow, and is different from chemical imitations.
Here's a breakdown of their contribution:
- Art Hunt, Dave Richey, and Wayne Pierce: Developed the snow cannon technology in 1950.
- Snow Cannon: Their invention is the device used to create artificial snow.
First Commercial Use of Artificial Snow
While Hunt, Richey, and Pierce invented the snow cannon, the first commercial use of artificial snow was at Grossinger's Catskill Resort Hotel in 1952. This event marked the beginning of using snowmaking technology in a recreational setting.
- Grossinger's Catskill Resort Hotel: First location to use artificial snow in 1952.
Expansion of Snowmaking
Snowmaking technology didn't become widespread until the early 1970s, marking a significant adoption period for this technology in the recreational industry.
Therefore, while we cannot attribute the invention of the underlying concept of fake snow to just one person, the credit for developing the technology of the snow cannon goes to Art Hunt, Dave Richey, and Wayne Pierce. Grossinger's Catskill Resort Hotel also has an important distinction, as it was the first location to commercially utilize the technology.
