Carousels, also known as merry-go-rounds, are among the most iconic and enduring amusement park rides, beloved by people of all ages. Their colorful animals, rotating platforms, and joyful music have long been a symbol of fun and festivity. However, the history of carousels is much deeper and more fascinating than many realize, tracing back centuries.
The word "carousel" is derived from the Italian "carosello," which comes from a name for a type of tournament. In medieval times, carousels were military exercises used to train knights. Riders would gallop in circles, tossing balls to each other as part of their drills. This early form of the carousel evolved over time into a public spectacle, where participants on horseback demonstrated their skills.
By the 17th century, the French nobility had turned these military games into elaborate parades. Riders would engage in mock battles and tournaments, which led to the development of mechanical devices that simulated these experiences. These machines, often set up at fairs and festivals, featured wooden horses and other animals that rotated on a circular platform, the earliest versions of the carousel ride we know today.
The late 1800s and early 1900s are commonly known as the "Golden Age" for carousels, particularly in the United States. This period saw the rise of some of the most famous carousel manufacturers, including Gustav Dentzel and Charles I.D. Looff, who immigrated from Europe and brought their craftsmanship to America. Gustav Dentzel, originally from Germany, established his carousel company in Philadelphia in the 1860s and became a key figure in popularizing carousels in the U.S. Dentzel's creations featured intricately carved animals, particularly horses, and were known for their artistry and elaborate details.
Charles I.D. Looff, another notable carousel maker, built his first carousel at Coney Island in New York in 1875. Looff's work emphasized the magical and whimsical elements of carousels, with beautifully detailed animals and ornate decorations. His contributions set a high standard for carousel design and solidified their place in American amusement parks.
During this era, carousels were powered by steam engines, which allowed them to grow in size and complexity. This period also saw the emergence of "menagerie carousels," which included animals other than horses, such as lions, tigers, and giraffes. This provided a diverse and fantastical experience for riders. Meanwhile, children's love of going around and around on a carousel sparked the creation of the playground merry-go-round, a kid-powered piece of spinning play equipment that grew in popularity into the early 20th century. While these pieces lacked the animals and other decorations of a carousel, they were much more affordable and easy to maintain in a community playground.
The artistic craftsmanship of carousels during the Golden Age is one of the key reasons they remain beloved attractions today. Expert carvers, such as Daniel Muller, Marcus Illions, and Solomon Stein, were renowned for their skill in creating lifelike, expressive animals. The horses, the most common and iconic carousel animals, were often adorned with ornate decorations including jewels, flowers, and flowing manes.
Another major carousel manufacturer, the Philadelphia Toboggan Company, was known for its detailed and realistic carvings. The company also produced some of the most elegant chariots ever created. Their early carousels featured real horsehair tails and were typically accompanied by band organs that played lively tunes as the carousel spun, adding to the enchanting experience.
The Great Depression of the 1930s marked the end of the Golden Age of carousels. Many amusement parks closed, leading the carousel manufacturers to close, too. Economic hardships led to fewer new carousels being built, and many of the existing ones fell into disrepair. Additionally, the rise of more thrilling amusement park rides, such as roller coasters, shifted attention away from carousels, which were often seen as children's rides.
However, interest in carousels experienced a revival in the 1970s. Antique carousels, with their hand-carved animals and historical significance, became prized collectors' items. Many communities and organizations began restoring old carousels to preserve their cultural heritage. Today, restored carousels can be found in parks and museums across the U.S., allowing new generations to enjoy these timeless rides.
While the traditional, hand-carved carousel animals are not commonly produced today, carousels remain a popular feature at amusement parks and fairs. Modern carousels often use animals made of fiberglass instead of wood, and the mechanisms are typically powered by electricity rather than steam. Despite these changes, the basic concept of the carousel as a joyful, rotating ride on colorful animals remains the same.
Some carousels have even embraced new themes, incorporating endangered species or characters from popular culture to appeal to today's audiences. At the same time, historical carousels continue to be restored and celebrated for their craftsmanship and nostalgic charm, serving as a reminder of the artistry and joy of earlier times.
