I know there are a lot of Stowe fans here at DCSki, so I thought I would plug the following book:

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0971774811/qid=1081182160/sr=8-1/ref=sr_8_xs_ap_i1_xgl14/102-9879383-9004967?v=glance&s=books&n=507846

Stowe: Classic New England
by Peter Oliver, Billy Kidd

This book is more than just a pretty coffee table book on Stowe, it's a first rate history. The book reveals how this classic resort was developed by visionaries such as Charlie Lord and CV Starr. It's a wonderful guide to how a great ski area emerges. The main theme that comes up over and over again is that Stowe was not developed for money but for love. Yes, money was made but most people invested in this mountain for love of the sport and not to make a financial killing. It's a very instructive and useful tale.