Built in 1893. What makes the Carousel a priceless attraction is its intricate woodwork. Over 110 years ago, the gifted hands, loving hearts, and forgotten names of master craftsmen and wood carvers created each character separately. These artists were highly skilled; most were European-trained. Russian immigrants were well-known as the most talented of the carvers. Lagoon’s 47 carousel animals were carved from many pieces of wood laminated together with pegs and glue. The most commonly used woods were yellow poplar and bass. After many countless hours of carving, as well as painstaking sanding, painting and finishing, the artist produced just one unique animal, adorned with a wide range of features based on the whim of the carver and painter.
Aside from the popular carousel horses, the Merry-Go-Round is host to a menagerie of animals, including a chicken; a delightful little frog in short pants and bow tie; a sea dragon, similar to Coney Island-style sea creatures; a longhorned goat; a zebra without a saddle; a charming cat; a sleeping baby with a bouquet of flowers, nestled in the folds of fabric held by a stork; a lion and a giraffe. The carved figures are adorned with a wide range of subjects including Mother Goose figures, bathing beauties, and the American flag. There is also a patriotic "Uncle Sam" sled, a spinning "love tub" and a Victorian rocker. Some of the figures have glass eyes and are decorated with jewels on the trappings.
An equal amount of craftsmanship was also invested to create intricate carvings and artwork on the structure of the ride which showcased the beautiful animals. Such features include nostalgic landscape paintings, beveled mirrors and light-catching jewels, which were popular at the time.
Lagoon Park. Farmington, Utah. 5.24.09. Built July 15th, 1886. One of America’s oldest Amusement Parks.
