The Kit Carson County Carousel in Colorado has a rich and remarkable history, which has captured the attention of those fascinated by amusement park lore. Diana Harper, a TikTok creator with a passion for carousel history, recently spoke to PEOPLE about this unique attraction and its intriguing journey over the years.
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Commissioned by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company in 1905 for Elitch Gardens, an amusement park in Denver, the original carousel was designed with stationary animals—a choice that proved unpopular as carousel designs evolved. By the 1920s, the carousel was deemed outdated and sold to the rural Kit Carson County, along with a large organ, for $1,200—a sum that would translate to over £23,000 today when adjusted for inflation.
The decision to acquire the carousel was met with mixed reactions. Critics pointed to the expenditure during a financially strained period, leading to some county commissioners facing electoral repercussions in subsequent elections. Despite the controversy surrounding its purchase, the carousel had not yet fulfilled its destiny.
Shortly after its arrival, the carousel’s future appeared uncertain. It was closed to the public, and the building was repurposed as a grain silo. Some local residents even suggested that the dilapidated structure should be destroyed due to extensive rodent damage. Fortunately, intentions to burn the carousel were ultimately abandoned, preserving this piece of history.
In the 1970s and 80s, a renewed interest in the carousel emerged. The county sought the expertise of art conservationists John Pogzeba and Will Morton to restore the carousel’s 45 oil-painted artworks and animals. Their efforts eventually led to its designation as a National Historic Site in 1987. This distinction made the Kit Carson County Carousel the first—and, at that time, the only—national landmark in Colorado that visitors could ride.
Harper expressed admiration for the restoration work, noting the skill of the professionals involved. “They uncovered all the original paint and features of the carousel, which made it truly remarkable,” she explained. These restoration efforts not only revitalised the carousel but also reignited community pride in this historic attraction.
However, the carousel’s narrative took a darker turn in the 1980s when four of its beloved animals were stolen. According to the carousel’s records, a malfunctioning security alarm allowed thieves to access the building, leading to the disappearance of three horses and a donkey. After an extensive investigation, the missing creatures were eventually located in Kansas, and two individuals were apprehended in connection with the theft. The carousel community rallied to retrieve the stolen animals, bringing them back in a horse trailer and celebrating their return in a spirited parade.
Today, the Kit Carson County Carousel continues to operate, making it one of the few remaining wooden carousels still functional in the United States. Its operational season runs from Memorial Day through Labour Day, inviting carousel enthusiasts and families alike to experience its charm.
As Harper points out, the story of the Kit Carson County Carousel serves as a testament to the resilience of this historical treasure. “It’s incredible how things have turned around for this carousel—it truly has changed the course of carousel history forever,” she remarked. The carousel stands not only as a ride but also as a lasting reminder of the passion for preserving culture and community heritage. For those visiting Colorado, a ride on this enchanted carousel is a journey through time—a cherished reminder of the past interwoven with the fabric of local history.