Whalom Park facts for kids
| Location | Lunenburg, Massachusetts, U.S. |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 42°34′32.02″N 71°44′47.64″W / 42.5755611°N 71.7465667°W |
| Opened | 1893 |
| Closed | September 4, 2000 |
| Slogan | For a Whale of a Time! |
| Attractions | |
| Total | 25 |
| Roller coasters | 1 |
| Water rides | 1 |
Whalom Park was a popular amusement park located by Lake Whalom in Lunenburg, Massachusetts. It welcomed visitors for over a century, from 1893 until it closed its gates in 2000. Today, the land where the park once stood has been turned into a large condominium complex.
When it closed, Whalom Park was known as one of the oldest amusement parks in the United States. It was also the second-oldest "trolley park" in the world. A trolley park was an amusement park built at the end of a trolley (streetcar) line. This made it easy for people to travel there for fun. The park was open every season for 107 years!
One of the most famous rides at Whalom Park was the "Flyer Comet." This was a thrilling wooden roller coaster. Most of the park's buildings and rides, including the Flyer Comet, were taken down in 2006 to make way for new homes.
Contents
A Look Back at Whalom Park's History
Whalom Park first opened in 1893. It was started by a railway company called Fitchburg & Leominster Street Railway. Back then, it was designed like a traditional English garden, with pretty paths and green spaces. Over the years, it grew into a full amusement park with many exciting rides and attractions.
The idea of a "trolley park" was very popular a long time ago. It gave people a fun place to go on the weekends. Whalom Park was a special place for many families in Massachusetts and beyond. It created lasting memories for generations of visitors.
Exciting Rides and Fun Attractions
Whalom Park had many different rides and attractions for all ages. From thrilling roller coasters to classic carousels, there was something for everyone. Here are some of the highlights:
Classic Rides
- Whalom Park Carousel: This beautiful carousel was added in 1914. It featured unique "Sea Dragons" along with traditional horses.
- Ferris wheel: A classic ride that offered great views of the park and Lake Whalom.
- Flyer Comet: This wooden roller coaster was built in 1940. It was known for its exciting drops and turns.
- Scrambler: Added in 1968, this ride spun and twisted riders in multiple directions.
- Tilt-a-whirl: Another spinning classic that made riders feel like they were tumbling.
- The Whip: A fast-paced ride that whipped riders around a track.
Other Fun Spots
- Skating Rink: Whalom Park had a large skating rink that opened in 1906.
- Arcade: The park's arcade was once a bowling alley. It was filled with games for all ages.
- Funhouse: This attraction had tricky floors and a "Barrel of Fun" that spun around.
- Kiddieland: A special area just for younger children. It had smaller rides and puppet shows.
- Waterpark: Whalom Park even had its own waterpark with waterslides.
- Mini Golf Land: A miniature golf course where families could enjoy a friendly game.
- Picnic Groves: These areas had picnic tables and a pavilion, perfect for family gatherings.
Park Mascots
Whalom Park had a few fun mascots that greeted guests:
- Silly Savage: A lion-like creature wearing a top hat.
- Super Chick: Another friendly mascot.
- Wally Whalom: A clown who entertained visitors.
There was also a special puppet named Barnaby, The Walking Talking Puppet. Barnaby would put on shows for guests around the park.
Whalom Park's Famous Jingles
Many people remember Whalom Park for its catchy TV advertisement jingles. These songs helped spread the word about all the fun to be had. Here are two versions:
First Version
- If you're looking for something exciting to do,
- Then Whalom Park is the place for you!
- With lots of rides and loads of fun,
- Whalom Park's for ev-ery-one!
- For fun and excitement,
- A place to unwind,
- Whalom Paaaark...for a whale of a time!
- Whalom Park, you'll have a good time
Second Version
- If you need excitement, then come for the fun!
- Whalom Park, it's for everyone!
- Amusement rides! And water slides!
- Whalom Park, it's family sized!
- Picnics and good times! Rides, games, and shows!
- Whalom's got it! C'mon let's gooooooo!
- Great for the family! It's one of a kind!
- Whalom Paaaark...for a whale of a time!
Images for kids
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The Entrance To The Flyer Comet
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The Whalom Park Trolley Station, c.1900s
