Eldridge Park Carousel Open Again in Elmira, New York

Between 1869 and 1870 Dr. Eldwin Eldridge bought a 100 acre tract of land with a small pond and developed it into a beautiful garden. Upon his death in 1889, the city of Elmira purchased this land and called it Eldridge Park in the Dr's honor. Eldridge Park was the "place to be" in its time. Attractions included a street car, dance hall, and casino. Rides included the Whip, Merry Go Round, Carousel, Roller Coaster, Bumper Cars, and a Dragon Boat. Also in the part was a Kiddie Land which included miniature versions of most of the adult rides and a train. The carousel closed in 1989 and the pieces sold off at auction.

The carousel is an important part of Elmira's past and holds many memories for the people of Elmira. With the help of thousands of volunteers and the Eldridge Park Carousel Preservation Society a plan was set in motion to restore the carousel and the building that houses to its original grandure.

In September 2001, the plan to reopen the carousel began. The animals were long gone to auction and scattered like leaves in the wind. The process to re-open the carousel would take five years, and millions of dollars. The Preservation Society began recruiting volunteers to assist with the rebuilding. Donations to help with the restoration of the carousel thus far total $1.2 million in cash and services.

The restoration included two phases: the restoration of the carousel building and the mechanisms; and the requisition of animals, shields, rings etc. Throughout the process of restoring the carousel many people have helped. Two of the original antique figures are currently on the platform of the carousel. These figures include a Looff and a Carmel. Sylvia, an original Looff was restored to become a beautiful palamino once again. Some of the original brass rings were also donated back to the carousel. The outer row of 20 animals on the carousel was re-crafted by Lawrence Pefferly to replicate the originals. The carousel is the fastest carousel in the world spinning at 18 miles per hour.

The efforts of the individuals working on the restoration project set a wonderful example of a partnership that brought together the whole community. This project has cleared the way for more projects to come. Further plans for the Eldridge Park site include a fountain in the lake, a bandstand, a field with lighting, a dock, ferry and paddle boats, picnic pavilions, putt-putt golf course, arcade, trolley shuttle and renovations to existing parking, bathrooms and other facilities.

The rebirth of the Eldridge Park carousel marks an important moment in the rebirth of the park, community pride and Elmira itself. On May 27, 2006 the carousel officially reopened and the Mayor of Elmira declared it Eldridge Park Carousel Day. The park will be returned to a place of enjoyment for many families, much like it was in its day. The people of Elmira have rallied behind the new renovations and they continue to show their support for the park.