Carousel Construction--Changes Over Time

The modern carousel design is a very large simple machine which has changed little in the past century. Gustav and William Dentzel got their center poles from a mast-maker in the nearby Philadelphia ship yards, most modern carousels have metal mechanisms. The early machines used steam power, before that, human or horse and donkey power were common. Mechanical power and use of the galloping crankshaft on the carousel were the major innovations during the industrial revolution era, with photo-voltaic cells, solar energy can be used today. Band Organs are very important to the atmosphere of the carousel, often replaced today by recorded music. For many years carousel animals were made only of wood, today it is common to find molded fiberglass or cast aluminum animals and panels. To the surprise of many, the standard wooden animals can easily last longer than the fiberglass type and are made of a renewable resource, they also offer freedom from the expensive molding process which gives the wooden carousel more potential for variety. A wooden carousel animal is made by gluing up a thick wooden box from which the body is carved with a similar hollow neck and head added.

 Many of the early American carousel animal carvers came from Europe where carving had reached a high point in architecture and furniture, America provided a peaceful place for these immigrants to continue their craft in the various carousel workshops. Many of the once abundant wooden carousels found throughout America have been dismantled and sold in pieces to collectors. This practice has preserved these fine wooden sculptures and decorations while at the same time has raised the awareness of the value of the few remaining wooden carousels. Unlike most amusement rides, the carousel often stands alone in its own park, spinning a planetary collection of sculptures into a lifelike fantasy.