Existing comment:
For Future Generations:
This carousel is now a historic structure; in fact, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Since the turn of the century, this ride has been a favorite for children of all ages. The art of animal carving was at its peak in 1921, when the Dentzel Carousel Company of Philadelphia installed this carousel in Glen Echo Park. Today, the National Park Service works diligently to maintain a balance between preservation and use of this invaluable historic structure. Sections of the carousel and the animals are being conserved and restored through a special process.
Carousel Saved!
The "Save the Carousel" effort is an early example of community support that is a hallmark at Glen Echo. After the Glen Echo Amusement Park closed, park owners moved or sold many rides, including the carousel. The new owner planned to ship it to California. Alarmed, the town of Glen Echo, Maryland, formed the Save the Carousel Committee. In one month, they raised the money and purchased the carousel. Meanwhile, community efforts successfully prevented the commercial development of the amusement park.
Today, the National Park Service in partnership with local citizens and groups protects this treasure and its home.
Glen Echo Park's carousel represents a vanishing breed. More than 3,000 carousels with hand carved wooden animals were produced in the United States; fewer than 160 remain today. Built by the Dentzel Carousel Company of Philadelphia and installed here in 1921, it is one of the few carousels in its original location. |