The carousel, over 95 years old, is one of the vintage machines of the golden era. A museum piece in itself, it still whirls on the Seaside Heights, NJ boardwalk to bring delight to young and old alike.

Although much of the carousel dates to 1910, some of the animals on board were carved in the 1890's. The 58 animals, 36 of which move up and down, were hand-carved by master craftsman William Dentzel (Philadelphia) and Charles Looff (Coney Island). In addition, there are a number of figures carved by Charles Carmel and Marcus Illions. Since more than one carver created the ride as it now exists, it is called a "mixed machine".

The music is provided by the only continuously operating Wurlizer Military Band Organ in the state of New Jersey. The Wurlitzer Style 146A organ features 105 wooden pipes, has 51 keys and plays from a style 150 band organ roll. A 16 note bell register has been added. In addition to the pipework, the organ also includes a bass drum, snare drum and cymbal. The organ has a duplex tracker system (much like a player piano) which operates a system of valves and small pneumatics to open pallets to allow air pressure to play the pipework. The only electrical part of the organ is the motor to turn the crankshaft. Usually, a music roll includes 10 songs and the duplex (double tracker) system permits the operation of two music rolls (one plays while the other rewinds). This allows the organ to play 20 different songs before a song is repeated.

This spectacular carousel features 2016 light bulbs, 18 paintings (15 of which are original) and elaborate neo-classical castings on the outer rim (floral patterns, lyres and winged lions). In addition to its colorful appearance, it also has a colorful past. It was initially located in Burlington Island Beach Park in Burlington, NJ. It was purchased in 1928 after being partially damaged in a fire at its previous home and erected at its current site in 1932. Since then, its horses have been used as examples of carousel art to produce a number of limited edition miniature horses for collectors. Several marriage ceremonies have taken place on the carousel including one in the actual "carnival" tradition, where, after the vows are taken, the crew pushed the carousel (manually) forward one revolution. Fund raisers, birthday parties, special celebrations, and numerous other events have been held on it.

Dr. Floyd L. Moreland, Professor of Classics and Dean at the Graduate School and University Center of the City University of New York manages the carousel, does restoration work and is assisted in its operation by a veterinarian and high school principal. They are all carousel lovers whose vision of the preservation of this important piece of Americana continues to thrill children of all ages with its sights and sounds......

After your ride on this beautiful carousel, visit The Magical Carousel Shoppe which is also operated by Dr. Moreland. Browse through their wonderful selection of carousel related gifts and collectibles.