Forest Park Carousel facts for kids
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Forest Park Carousel
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Forest Park Carousel, July 2012
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 Location in New York City
Location in New York
Location in the United States
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| Location | Woodhaven Blvd. and Forest Park Drive, Woodhaven, New York |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1903 |
| Architect | Muller, D.C. |
| NRHP reference No. | 04000706 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | July 16, 2004 |
The Forest Park Carousel is a really old and special carousel located in Forest Park in the Woodhaven area of Queens, New York City. It was built a long time ago in 1903. This carousel is famous because it's one of only two known carousels made by the Muller brothers that are still around today!
Contents
Forest Park Carousel: A Historic Ride
The Forest Park Carousel is more than just a fun ride; it's a piece of history! It has 52 different figures to ride on. These include 36 "jumpers" (horses that move up and down), 13 "standers" (horses that stay still), three "menagerie" figures (other animals), and two chariots. It also has its original band organ, which plays music while you ride.
A Journey Through Time: The Carousel's Story
This amazing carousel wasn't always in Forest Park. It was first built in 1903. In 1972, it was moved to its current spot in Forest Park. This happened after the previous carousel there was destroyed by a fire in 1966.
The carousel is inside a special building. This building was designed in 1988. It's a one-story, eight-sided wooden structure that protects the carousel.
Special Recognition: A Landmark Status
Because of its history and unique features, the Forest Park Carousel has received important recognition.
- In 2004, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This means it's considered a very important historical site in the United States.
- On June 25, 2013, the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission also made the Forest Park Carousel a city landmark. This helps protect it for future generations to enjoy.
Saving the Carousel: Its Reopening
The carousel had to close down for a while in 2009. This was because the company running it let their contract end. Many people in the community worked hard to get it reopened. They even signed petitions!
The New York City Department of Parks and Recreation looked for a new company to operate the carousel. They also tried to get money to help fix up the horses.
Good news! The carousel reopened on May 26, 2012. A new company called NY Carousel took over its management.
Bringing Back the Fun
NY Carousel signed a long-term agreement to run the carousel. They had a plan to make it wonderful again. They removed old "prison gates" around the building, gave it a fresh coat of paint, and reopened the snack stand.
The community was very happy about the carousel coming back. Many people have enjoyed riding it since it reopened. In fact, the Woodhaven Residents’ Block Association even named NY Carousel their "Business of the Year" for 2012! NY Carousel has shared that they hope to bring even more rides and fun attractions to the Forest Park Carousel area in the future.
