MenuPullen Park Carousel
Pullen Park Carousel History
By summer of 1915, Pullen Park had its first steam driven "merry-go-round." In the fall of 1920, the City Board voted to "replace the antiquated merry-go-round" by purchasing the current carousel and building from Bloomsbury Park. Repaired and repainted the carousel was ready to ride on Easter Monday in 1921. A severe storm delayed the opening until April 1, 1921.
The circa 1900, intricately hand carved machine, was made by master carver Salvatore Cernigliaro and his apprentices in Germantown, Pennsylvania for the Dentzel Carousel Company. According to the National Carousel Association Census, this is one of 23 remaining historic Dentzel carousels and one of 14 Dentzel menageries still operating in Northern America.
This Dentzel Carousel is three-abreast, stationary and galloping menagerie machine. The No. 106 carousel is 50 feet in diameter, with an 18-section platform. Fifty-two animals and two chariots make up the carousel of which 16 are stationary and 36 animals are galloping. The inside rim of the machine is comprised of 18 large gilded mirrors and 18 canvas panels. The outside rim, 18 large panels depicting animal portraits alternate with smaller panel paintings of landscape scenes. The Wurlitzer 125 Military Band Organ provides music. The band organ dates back from 1900 to 1924.
The carousel was accepted for the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.A major restoration was undertaken from 1977 - 1982. The Pullen project was the first restoration of a carousel where layers of park paint was entirely removed to expose and save the original. Twenty-eight of the animals are documented and preserved. From there the original color and design were reproduced as closely as possible.
Ride Ticket Information:
Tickets will be required for each ride in Pullen Park. Each amusement ride requires a certain number of tickets in order to ride. Tickets cost a dollar each and are available at the ticket office next to the concessions building at the ticket booth at the carousel house.
The carousel, train, and kiddie boats require one ticket per person. The pedal cruisers require six tickets per half hour boat rental.
Advance tickets sales are available. The ticket office closes 15 minutes before the rides close to ensure enough time for patrons to ride. The amusement rides are subject to close early due to inclement weather.
