Carousel

Ever wonder what a State Fair carousel does after the prizes are handed out and the lights go dim? The Carousel here at Como Park has a fascinating answer. The Cafesjian’s Carousel, a beautiful antique wooden carousel, didn’t start its life here in this Victorian pavilion. It spent its first 75 years whirling and twirling at the Minnesota State Fair. Imagine the generations of excited children, clutching cotton candy, who rode these very horses. The year was 1914 when the Philadelphia Toboggan Company first brought this masterpiece to life. 68 hand-carved horses and two chariots, each a miniature work of art, ready to transport riders to a world of joyous spins. The Carousel operated at the State Fair until 1989. Then, it faced a near-tragic fate. The owners planned to dismantle it and sell off the individual pieces. Can you imagine these magnificent horses scattered across the country, their magic lost? Thankfully, a generous donor, Gerald Cafesjian, stepped in and rescued the Carousel, along with the help of dedicated volunteers. The Carousel was lovingly restored. Much of the original paint was preserved. It’s now one of only a few carousels in the country with that distinction. Mr. Cafesjian’s contribution ensured this piece of Minnesota history could continue to delight visitors. The Carousel found its new home here at Como Park in 2000, nestled near the Conservatory. Take a moment to admire the craftsmanship. The horses still boast much of their original paint, despite a fire in 1939 that scorched some of them. If you look closely, you might even see hints of the char marks under the fresh coats of paint. The music that fills the air comes from a rebuilt Wurlitzer 153 band organ. The Carousel operates seasonally. Even when it’s not in motion, you can still glimpse it through the large glass doors of the pavilion. It stands as a testament to the power of community and the enduring magic of a timeless ride.