From a carousel horse carver’s workshop to the bustling heart of Coney Island, the B&B Carousell’s journey is a testament to its enduring charm. The B&B Carousell isn’t just a ride. It’s a piece of living history, a testament to the golden age of American carousels. The B&B Carousell stands proudly within Luna Park, a beacon of old-world amusement park charm. Originally built in Coney Island between 1906 and 1909 by William F. Mangels and Marcus Illions, this carousel has seen more than its fair share of adventures.
The B&B Carousell’s name itself holds a story. “B&B” refers to William Bishoff and Herman Brienstein, the owners who brought the carousel back to Coney Island from New Jersey in the 1930s. “Carousell,” the unique spelling, is a nod to Mangels’s original catalogs. This carousel isn’t just a ride. It is a work of art, featuring fifty beautifully hand-carved wooden horses and two majestic chariots. Each horse boasts unique motifs and colors, striking a variety of dramatic poses as they gallop around the center. Among these horses is a true treasure: the Abraham Lincoln Centennial Horse, carved by Illions in 1909. This lone survivor from the original set of horses serves as a poignant reminder of the carousel’s rich past. It now bears a plaque commemorating its historical significance.
The carousel’s history is as vibrant as its hand-painted steeds. It began its life in New Jersey, possibly at Asbury Park before moving to Lake Hopatcong. In the 1920s, Charles Carmel, another master craftsman, carved replacement horses and two chariots, adding his own touch to this evolving masterpiece. After its return to Coney Island, the B&B Carousell took up residence on Surf Avenue, its presence a constant amidst the ever-changing landscape of the amusement park. August Wolfinger’s patriotic murals, added to the rounding boards in the 1940s, further enhanced its visual appeal.
The B&B Carousell faced its share of challenges. It weathered the decline of Coney Island’s popularity in the mid-20th century. It even faced eviction in the early 2000s. But like a true champion, it emerged victorious. Thanks to a private donor and the city of New York, the carousel underwent a meticulous restoration. Every detail, from the 80 synthesized colors matching the horses’ original tones to the new horsehair tails, was carefully considered. Now, housed in a stunning cylindrical pavilion built specifically for it, the B&B Carousell continues to enchant visitors. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it is a symbol of resilience and a cherished piece of Coney Island’s soul. As you step onto the B&B Carousell, remember. You are not just embarking on a ride. You are stepping into a time capsule, a whirlwind of history, artistry, and the enduring magic of Coney Island.