While there are around two hundred original wooden merry go rounds still in operation today across America, a great many more have gone by the wayside, and been lost or destroyed. Possessing this knowledge, The Merry Go Round Museum, in Sandusky, Ohio, has been operating since 1990, working to preserve, refurbish, and display carousel animals from all over the country, and to celebrate the fine art of carving merry go round animals. The museum showcases dozens upon dozens of pieces, varying from the typical horse (of many varieties), to elephants, reindeer, winter wolves, circus tigers, and a great deal more.
One of the main attractions of the museum is a restored classic carousel made by the Allen Herschell company. The original frame and scenery panels were cleaned and painted, and made to look like new, but for some reason none of the original animals were used. In their place, the Merry Go Round Museum has put in pieces from their own collection, from other, private collections, and even some newly crafted animals as well. Also of interest is the museum’s gift shop, which offers many unique and interesting gifts and trinkets.
Every year, the museum holds a raffle giving away a hand-carved horse, with raffle tickets being a dollar each. Click here for more information, and to purchase tickets.
Tickets to the museum are $6 for adults, and $4 for children 4–14 (those under 4 are free). Yearly passes are also available. The museum’s hours differ depending on the time of year, so be sure to check out the hours at the bottom of the Merry Go Round Museum’s website when planning your trip. Are you planning a party? You’re in luck if you are, because the museum can be rented for special occasions! Find all this and more, at MerryGoRoundMuseum.org.
Photo Credit: Rona Proudfoot.
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