Have you ever wondered what a Coney Island carousel is doing in the heart of Queens? Here at the Flushing Meadows Carousel, a magical piece of history whirls right before your eyes. The Flushing Meadows Carousel isn’t just any carousel. It’s a time machine, a fusion of two historic Coney Island carousels, Feltman’s and Stubbman’s, both carved by the master craftsman Marcus Illions in the early 1900s. Imagine the excitement of the 1964 World’s Fair, where this very carousel delighted visitors in a specially created “Carousel Park” with a boardwalk and food stands. The carousel first spun to life at the fair, bringing joy to countless faces before finding its permanent home here in 1968. Look closely at the magnificent steeds. Sixty-four horses leap and bound, seven stand proudly, a lone lion roars silently, and two ornate chariots await their passengers. These figures, meticulously crafted by Illions, showcase the flamboyant Coney Island style, full of fantasy and drama. Notice the slots in the floor, a unique feature that allows the horses to tilt outward as the carousel gains speed, adding a thrilling dimension to the ride. The carousel’s story is one of resilience and rebirth. Feltman’s, once considered Illions’ masterpiece, met an unfortunate end due to “economics,” according to its owner. The Stubbman Carousel, though less acclaimed, offered its sturdy frame and mechanical parts to create this magnificent hybrid. In 2012, the carousel received a much-needed makeover, with fresh paint, a refinished floor, and new fencing. Even a charming Rio Grande Train, the Choo Choo, joined the amusement area, offering another delightful ride. The Flushing Meadows Carousel stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic amusement park rides and the artistry of a bygone era. Its presence here in Flushing Meadows Corona Park offers a touch of Coney Island magic in Queens.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to