Gwynn Oak Park facts for kids
Gwynn Oak Park was once a popular amusement park in Gwynn Oak, near Baltimore, Maryland. It covered about 64 acres. The park was open from 1893 to 1973. It became famous for protests against racial segregation, because only white people were allowed inside for a long time.
Contents
History of Gwynn Oak Park
Fun Rides and Music
When Gwynn Oak Park was at its most popular, it had many exciting rides. There were three roller coasters: The Big Dipper, The Little Dipper, and The Wild Mouse. Visitors could also enjoy classic rides like the Ferris Wheel and The Whip. The park also had a fun carousel and a dance hall called the "Dixie Ballroom." A local radio station, WFBR, even broadcast live music from the ballroom on weekends!
A Fight for Fairness
In the late 1950s and early 1960s, Gwynn Oak Park was still segregated. This meant that only white people were allowed to enter. Many people felt this was unfair. Groups like the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) and the NAACP worked with local religious leaders to protest this rule. They wanted the park to be open to everyone, no matter their race.
Protests for Equality
There were several protests over the years. Two big ones happened in July 1963. On July 4, 1963, many people gathered to protest peacefully outside the park. They wanted the park to change its rules. Many people were arrested that day, including religious leaders from different places. Another protest happened on July 7, 1963. People continued to stand up for what was right.
A New Beginning
Finally, on August 28, 1963, Gwynn Oak Park opened its doors to everyone. On that day, a young girl named Sharon Langley, with her father Charles Langley, became the first African American child to ride the park's merry-go-round. This was a very important moment for civil rights in the area.
The Park Today
Gwynn Oak Park closed in 1973. It was badly damaged by floods from Hurricane Agnes, which caused the Gwynns Falls creek to overflow. The rides were sold off in 1974. The park's carousel was moved and is still used today on the National Mall in Washington D.C..
Today, the land where the amusement park once stood is owned by the Baltimore County Government. It is now a large open space perfect for picnics. The Gwynns Falls creek still flows through the area, and there is a lake that people enjoy for ice skating in the winter.
