Carousel No. 54
One of the treasures we discovered in Fall River was the beautifully restored Looff Carousel at Heritage State Park. As much as I enjoyed the hand-carved horses and colorful artwork, I was fascinated to learn the story of Carousel No. 54, built in 1920 by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company.
Originally installed at Lincoln Park in nearby North Dartmouth, the carousel delighted generations of families for more than sixty years. Lincoln Park itself had opened in 1894 and became one of southeastern Massachusetts’ most beloved amusement parks. When the park closed in 1986, there was concern that the carousel might be lost forever. Fortunately, local citizens and preservationists recognized its historic importance and undertook an extensive restoration. The carousel was carefully restored in 1991 and installed at its present location in Fall River in 1992.
Carousel No. 54 is one of the few surviving examples of the craftsmanship of the Philadelphia Toboggan Company, one of America’s premier carousel manufacturers. The company was known for its beautifully carved wooden animals and elaborate decorative panels. The scenes painted throughout the carousel celebrate rural life and reflect the artistry that made these attractions so popular during the early twentieth century.
More than a century after it was built, Carousel No. 54 continues to bring joy to visitors and stands as a tribute to the enduring appeal of America’s golden age of amusement parks.
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