Exploring the Carousels of Boston and New England, Representing the Land, Air, and Sea

James Harrison

The New England area, including Boston, MA, is known for its beauty and diversity. It is an area with a tremendous amount of history and has seen a tremendous amount of growth and change over the past 300 years. This history is chronicled in multiple ways and reflected in the carousels that dot the area.  By taking a look at some of the top carousels, visitors and residents alike will learn more about this historic, beautiful part of the country. There are a few carousels that everyone should take the time to visit. Boston Bayside Properties has compiled a can't-miss list of gorgeous carousels in this region.

The Bushnell Park Carousel

One of the carousels that everyone needs to be sure to visit is called the Bushnell Park Carousel. While Bushnell Park is a popular place for people to spend a day under the gorgeous Boston sky, the Bushnell Park Carousel continues to stand tall. Bushnell is a 1914 carouse that basks in the shadows of giant skyscrapers along with a giant Turkey Oak. This is a 24-sided pavilion that has four-dozen wooden horses that have been carved by hand. There are even two chariots that twirl masterfully around a vintage Wurlitzer band organ. This Carousel recently celebrated its 100thbirthday back in 2014. Also though the future continues to build, grow, and expand around this Carousel, the Bushnell Park Carousel continues to stand tall. Best of all, it is still only two dollars for a three to four-minute ride on this vintage, beautiful Carousel

The Flying Horses Carousel

Next up us the Flying Horses Carousel, located on Martha's Vineyard. Though this era is known for Fortnite and iPhones, instead of playing outside, this Carousel continues to stand tall. Martha's Vineyard continues to draw tourists from all over the world for its beaches, but one of the biggest attractions continues to be this unique Carousel. The Flying Horses Carousel was first brought to this location after being housed on Coney Island for about eight years. Of note, this Carousel is the country's oldest that continues to run. It was built in 1876 by a New York toymaker, Charles Dare. He was renowned for the contributions he made to the carousel industry. The Flying Horses Carousel made up of a red-shingled barn and the 20 wooden horses that gran the Carousel its name. There are also four chariots. Each piece of this Carousel was carved by hand. At one time, authentic horsehair manes and tails were even present. Even in this modern era, people still line up to enjoy a five-minute ride on this famed Carousel.

The Greenway Carousel

Another carousel that begs to a visit is called The Greenway Carousel. This Carousel is a one-of-a-kind.  Visit at The Tiffany & Co Foundation Grove on the Rose Kennedy Greenway. Those who swing by to visit this Carousel can go for a ride on one of the numerous animals that are native to the Boston, MA area. Some of the choices include a cod, fox, oarfish, whale, lobster, grasshopper, turtle, butterfly, and more. The drawings of local children initially inspired the original characters for this Carousel. The characters were designed by Jeff Briggs, who is a native of the Boston, MA area. In total, The Greenway Carousel has 36 seats. The Carousel is listed among the most accessible carousels for people of all ages, including those who might have disabilities. The Greenway Carousel is one of the most popular and busiest carousels in the area. With so many adorable characters, it is easy to see why.

The Frog Pond Carousel Boston

The Frog Pond Carousel is one of the most iconic carousels in the region. This Carousel is located on the historic Boston Common, where many people say the first shots of the American Revolution were fired back in 1775. Boston Common still stands to this day, with the historic Frog Pond Carousel still in operation, having been running since 1947. It was built by Allan Herschell of North Tonawanda, NY, one of the most prolific makers of carousels in history. This Carousel has a gorgeous oak floor, beautiful glass mirrors, and even has a standard pie top that comes with a lighted crown. In essence, this Carousel has been built in the mold of the classic Carousel. Fong Pond Carousel has been named as one of the country's best carousels by Travel and Leisure. It is even handicapped accessible. It runs from April through October.

The Paragon Carousel

There are fewer than 100 of this country's "classic" carousels still running today. One of them is the Paragon Carousel. This Carousel operates on the shores of the incomparable Nantasket Beach and has been running for more than 90 years. The Carousel was constructed back in 1928 and was built by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company. This Carousel is one of the biggest in the country, having four rows of 66 meticulously carved horses. There are also two rare Roman chariots. Using its intricate craftsmanship and gorgeous Wurlitzer Band Organ, the Paragon Carousel continues to touch the hearts, minds, and spirits of all who ride it while still igniting a creative passion in everyone who visits. The Paragon Carousel is one of the last items that remained in the beloved Paragon Park which closed its doors back in 1985. Therefore, this Carousel is a remnant of the golden age of this region.

The New England Carousel Museum

One of the places that everyone should check out is called the Carousel Museum. This museum has dedicated itself to the acquisition, restoration, and preservation of all carousels and memorabilia in the local area. This museum knows that the general public still prizes these beautiful carousels and works to make sure everyone can still enjoy them. As a non-profit organization, its professionals protect and preserve the antique wooden carousels and their pieces by educating everyone on the history of these carousels and what they represent. As a result, this museum has become one of the most popular destinations for tourists and residents alike. This museum even provides guided tours to those who visit.

Enjoying the Beauty of the New England Carousels

In a modern era where so many people are absorbed by screens, it is great to see that so many people continue to enjoy the beauty and simplicity of the carousels in this region. These carousels have all been meticulously put together with unparalleled attention to detail. In a way, they represent the best that Boston and New England have to offer. The time period during which each Carousel was manufactured is a reflection of what was happening during that time period. In a sense, these carousels can transport people back in time as they explore the beauty of the New England area. Those who want to experience everything this region has to offer should reach out to Boston Bayside Properties today. Learn about some of the properties that are available in this historic area.

James Harrison

Broker/Realtor®

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Exploring the Carousels of Boston and New England, Representing the Land, Air, and Sea

The New England area, including Boston, MA, is known for its beauty and diversity. It is an area with a tremendous amount of history and has seen a tremendous amount of growth and change over the past 300 years. This history is chronicled in multiple ways and reflected in the carousels that dot the area.  By taking a look at some of the top carousels, visitors and residents alike will learn more about this historic, beautiful part of the country. ...

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