Lander Park Carousel facts for kids
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Parker Carousel
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 Location in Kansas
Location in the United States
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| Location | 412 S. Campbell St., Abilene, Kansas |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | c. 1898 |
| Architect | Charles W. Parker Amusement Co. |
| NRHP reference No. | 87000813 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | February 27, 1987 |
| Designated NHL | February 27, 1987 |
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The Parker Carousel is a super old and special ride in Abilene, Kansas. It's also called the Lander Park Carousel or Riverton Park Carousel. This historic carousel was built around 1900. It's one of only three carousels left from the 68 made by the Charles W. Parker Carousel Company. This company was based right there in Abilene! Today, the Parker Carousel is the only thing left of the company in Abilene. In 1987, it was named a National Historic Landmark. Now, you can find it at the Dickinson County Heritage Center, which is a museum about local history.
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Exploring the Parker Carousel
The Parker Carousel is in southeastern Abilene. You can find it at the Dickinson County Heritage Center. It's located just east of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum and Boyhood Home.
What Does It Look Like?
The carousel is inside a building shaped like an octagon. This building is made of wood. The carousel itself has a big round wooden platform. The outside edge of the platform has wheels. These wheels roll on a track built into the ground.
Fun Features of the Ride
On the platform, you'll see 24 horses and four chariots. The horses are attached to metal frames. When the carousel spins, these frames make the horses rock up and down. It's like they are galloping! The carousel didn't originally have its own roof. It was meant to be used under a big tent.
How the Carousel Moves
The carousel can be powered in two ways. It can use an electric motor. Or, it can use an old-fashioned steam engine. This steam engine has been updated to be safe today. The power source is in a small room next to the main building. Cables connect the power source to the carousel, making it spin.
A Journey Through Time
The Charles W. Parker Carousel Company built this carousel. They made it sometime between 1898 and 1901. This company was famous for its beautiful, gracefully carved horses.
From Abilene to Wyoming
The Parker Company made about 68 carousels in total. This one is special because it's one of only three that still exist! It's also the only reminder of the company left in Abilene. This carousel was once part of a traveling show run by Mr. Parker. In 1928, a mechanic bought it. He lived in Lander, Wyoming. There, the carousel was set up every year for Fourth of July celebrations.
Finding a New Home
Later, in 1959, the carousel was bought by someone who ran a drive-in theater in Riverton, Wyoming. It stayed there and gave rides until he passed away. His wife wanted to make sure the carousel stayed in good condition. So, in 1976, the Smithsonian Institution helped arrange for the carousel to move. It was given to the Dickinson County Historical Society. Now, it's a treasured part of the Dickinson County Heritage Center.
