Purpose: to appreciate and celebrate historical, architectural and cultural changes through roller coaster history.
The majority of the images featured are from my private collection. This site may contain copyrighted material used under fair use for personal research, sholarly, educational, or research purposes. 100% accuracy of the text hearin is not guaranteed. I do not claim any rights to any of these images; my site is not monetized.
post·card /ˈpōs(t)ˌkärd/
noun: a card for sending a message by mail without an envelope, typically having a photograph or other illustration on one side.
"he promised to send me a picture postcard"
L.A. Thompson (LaMarcus A. Thompson) is considered the "father" of roller coasters. He patented his designs and opened his first "Scenic Railway"; called the Switchback Railway, in Coney Island New York 1884. His company later built many scenic railways in amusement parks across the U.S. and Europe. This advertising postcard would reveal it's nessage by rubbing a pencil across the face; one of my favorite collectbles. This was likely sent to businessed to help sell this new thrilling concept. The ride weas located where the Cyclone resides today.
The "Scenic Railway" operated at Willow Grove Park, Pennsylvania, and was originally called the Mountain Scenic Railway (1896-1974). The ride offered themed thrills like mountains and tunnels. The park played host to many coasters and is no longer in operation, the area is now a mall. There is a historical marker marking it's former location.
Another view of The "Scenic Railway" which operated at Willow Grove Park, Pennsylvania, and was originally called the Mountain Scenic Railway (1896-1974). The ride offered themed thrills like mountains and tunnels. The park played host to many coasters and is no longer in operation, the area is now a mall.
This vintage postcard shows the entrance / station to The Scenic; (a side friction roller coaster) at Willow Grove Park in Pennsylvania, circa 1940. A major attraction at Willow Grove Park Amusement Park, which operated from 1896 to 1975. The site is now Willow Grove Mall.
The roller coaster originally known as The Bobs at Coney Island was a historic wooden coaster that operated from 1926 to 1978. It was renamed the Tornado in the 1930s. The ride no longer exists, as it was severely damaged by arson attacks in 1977 and subsequently demolished. One can only imagine being in these shops and the coaster rumbling overhead.
Originally named the Southern Belle in 1911; Leap the Dips opened in 1914 after a redesign. Ocean View Amusement Park in Norfolk, Virginia, was a beloved seaside destination from 1905 to 1979 and hosted a variety of wooden roller coaster attractions. The park site is now home to high-rise residential buildings.
Originally named the Southern Belle in 1911; Leap the Dips opened in 1914 after a redesign. Ocean View Amusement Park in Norfolk, Virginia, was a beloved seaside destination from 1905 to 1979 and hosted a variety of wooden roller coaster attractions. The park site is now home to high-rise residential buildings. Ten cent fair would equate to about $3.40 today.
This image is a vintage postcard view of the Virginia Beach, VA, amusement park and boardwalk Likely from the 1910s to 1940s. Likely from the Leap The Dips (around 1911) at Ocean View Park.
The historic Island Park in Easton, Pennsylvania, featured a Figure Eight wooden roller coaster. The park was a popular "trolley park" attraction from 1894 to 1919, and the roller coaster was present during that time, with postcards from 1911 confirming its existence.
Cascade Park in New Castle, PA opened in 1897 as a trolley park. The park featured a figure-eight roller coaster (1903-1921). The park played host to three other coasters in it day. The amusement park closed permanently in 1981. The original Roller Coaster was located where the park's parking lot is today. Today, the site is still maintained as a nature park for walking and hiking.
This postcard, circa 1910, shows Euclid Beach Park in Cleveland, Ohio, showcasing the "Racing Coaster" (1913-1969) and "Thriller" 1924-1969 roller coasters. The park played host to seven coasters before closing in 1969. Today, the location at 159th street is a city park with apartment complexes, and some remnants of the amusement park still exist.
This postcard, circa 1910, shows Euclid Beach Park in Cleveland, Ohio, showcasing the "Racing Coaster" (1913-1969), "Thriller" 1924-1969 and "Flying Turns" (1939-1969) roller coasters. The park played host to seven coasters before closing in 1969. Today, the location at 159th street is a city park with apartment complexes, and some remnants of the amusement park still exist.
The Scenic Railway built by LaMarcus Adna Thompson was a wooden roller coaster at Euclid Beach Park in Cleveland, Ohio, that operated from 1907 to 1937. The ride was eventually deemed outdated and was dismantled and scrapped in 1937, to be replaced with the "Over the Falls" water ride.
This postcard, circa 1930's, shows Euclid Beach Park in Cleveland, Ohio, showcasing the station for the "Flying Turns" (1930-1969). A ride perfected by Norman Bartlett in which the coaster train would roll "freely" through a wooden trough. Today, the location at 159th street is a city park with apartment complexes, and some remnants of the amusement park still exist.
The Derby Racer was a park staple at Euclid Beach was a park center piece. The Derby Racer (1913-1969) was a "mobius loop" racing coaster designed by John Miller and closed with the park.
This rare image likely from the early 1950's shows the Skyrocket Jr. in the "Kiddieland" section of Ocean View Park. Details of this ride are difficult to come by (as of this writing).
This image from Rye Playland, NY features the 1928 Kiddie Coaster and still operates (for children only) as of this writing. Built by the National Amusement Device Company, it's nearing 100 years of operation; quite rare for any coaster let alone a kids wooden coaster. Besides the clown being a cute point of interest, showing the rides placement behind the famed defunct Airplane coaster harkens back to the parks more classical era.
Rye Playland, a historic Art Deco amusement park in Rye, NY, opened in 1928 as America's "first planned" amusement park and in 1987 deemed as a National Historic Landmark. This image depicts the historic and revered Airplane (left), (1928-1957) a legendary wooden roller coaster designed by Frederick Church, operated from 1928 to 1957, known for its intense spiraling drops and bottlenecks. Also shown is is the Dragon (right), built in 1929 also by Frederick Church is a lesser thrilling ride featuring a smooth ride experience and a midcourse tunnel designed to look like a dragon.
Rye Playland, a historic Art Deco amusement park in Rye, NY, opened in 1928 as America's "first planned" amusement park and in 1987 deemed as a National Historic Landmark. This image depicts the historic and revered Aeroplane (1928-1957) a legendary wooden roller coaster designed by Frederick Church, operated from 1928 to 1957, known for its intense spiraling drops and bottlenecks. Also shown is is the Dragon, built in 1929 also by Frederick Church is a lesser thrilling ride featuring a smooth ride experience and a midcourse tunnel designed to look like a dragon.
Yet another view of The Rocket at Ocean View Amusement Park in Norfolk, Virginia, was a famous wooden roller coaster, originally built in 1927 as The Skyrocket. It was rebuilt after a 1958 fire and featured in the 1977 movie Rollercoaster, before its dramatic demolition in 1979 for the movie The Death of Ocean View Park, which involved multiple failed dynamite attempts and required bulldozers to finish the job. Intriguing from every angle.
The Rocket at Ocean View Amusement Park in Norfolk, Virginia, was a famous wooden roller coaster, originally built in 1927 as The Skyrocket. It was rebuilt after a 1958 fire and featured in the 1977 movie Rollercoaster, before its dramatic demolition in 1979 for the movie The Death of Ocean View Park, which involved multiple failed dynamite attempts and required bulldozers to finish the job. A city park resides here today.
Another view of The Rocket at Ocean View Amusement Park in Norfolk, Virginia, was a famous wooden roller coaster, originally built in 1927 as The Skyrocket. It was rebuilt after a 1958 fire and featured in the 1977 movie Rollercoaster, before its dramatic demolition in 1979 for the movie: The Death of Ocean View Park, which involved multiple failed dynamite attempts and required bulldozers to finish the job.
The Virginia Reel at Conneaut Lake Park was a unique wooden roller coaster featuring spinning tubs on a flat track with many turns and switchbacks, operating from 1911 to 1920 before being dismantled. It was a type of spinning coaster where seats rotated freely as they traveled the zig-zagging path, designed by Henry Elmer Riehl, and was one of several coasters at the park.
The Tickler (1908-1910) Roller Coaster at Lakeside Park, Denver Colorado. The Design intorduced by W.F. Mangels Company in 1906 any number of these rides were built. The Tickler was a popular early 20th-century amusement park ride (sometimes known as Virginia Reel in other parks). It's single cars would spin and roll down a zig zag incline.
Between 1900-1920 many parks were characterized by brilliant white, electric-lit buildings, white stucco architecture and often went by the name White City. The Velvet coaster (1908-1910) stood 70' tall at what is known as Lakeside Park. The placement of the carousel in the post card and current location in person captures the exact location of where the ride existed.
This vintage postcard depicts a tub full of riders ascending the lift hill of the "Virginia Reel" roller coaster at Revere Beach, Massachusetts, likely around the 1910s or 1920s. The Virginia Reel was an older style of spinning roller coaster where circular "tubs" zig-zagged down a flat-bottomed track. The ride was a popular attraction at the Wonderland Amusement Park, which was located at Revere Beach appx where 650 Ocean Avenue residential complex is today.
This wooden side friction coaster operated at Conneaut Lake Park from (1909-1937). This Scenic Railway was built by T.M. Horton and ran along the main midway a.k.a. Park Ave; it was replaced by The Blue Streak in 1939 which featured newer coaster track techology.
This wooden side friction coaster operated at Conneaut Lake Park from (1909-1937). This Scenic Railway was built by T.M. Horton and ran along the main midway a.k.a. Park Ave; it was replaced by The Blue Streak in 1939 which featured newer coaster track techology.
Conneaut Lake always had some sort of amusement devices present since 1892. This image of a "bounce House" shows a Schiff model Wild Mouse in the background which was installed in the 1960's. Many rides have since been removed from Conneaut Lake Park and the land is constantly evolving.
The "Sunnyside Flyer" was a large wooden roller coaster that opened in 1923, a year after the amusement park itself opened. It was designed by A. J. Miller and was notably advertised as having the "dippiest-dips on the continent". The Flyer was a popular roller coaster at Sunnyside Amusement Park in Toronto, which closed in 1955. The park was demolished to make way for the Gardiner Expressway.
The Beach Coaster (also known as the "Pippin"): This large wooden roller coaster was the first in Florida and operated from 1928 in Jacksonville Beach until it was dismantled in 1950 due to safety concerns and storm damage. It was a prominent local landmark, standing 93 feet tall and reaching speeds up to 50 mph.
The Pavilion at Myrtle Beach operated from 1948 until it was demolished in 2006. Shown here; The Galaxi (1985-1994) and SDC model was one of six coasters to operate at the park over the years. The most notable being Arrow Dynamics Corkscrew (relocated from Magic Harbor) and The Hurricane (a customer coasters product).
Shown here the Corkscrew (1978-1999) was relocated from Magic Harbor amusement park just a few miles away. The Pavilion at Myrtle Beach operated from 1948 until it was demolished in 2006. Bounded by N. Ocean Blvd, 9th Ave N., Hwy 17 and 8trh avenue N. The space where the park once resided has left a void in the Myrtle Beach experience.
The Giant Coaster at Paragon Park was a historic wooden roller coaster that operated from 1917 to 1984. Originally known as "The Giant", it was the tallest roller coaster in the world when it opened in 1917, standing 98 feet high. It was designed by John A. Miller and built by Herbert Paul Schmeck of the Philadelphia Toboggan Company. The ride was a staple of the park until its closure in 1984 to make way for a condominium development. After Paragon Park closed it relocated to Maryland, and reopened as The Wild One at Wild World in 1986. The site also has a historical marker.
The Giant Coaster at Paragon Park was a historic wooden roller coaster that operated from 1917 to 1984. Originally known as "The Giant", it was the tallest roller coaster in the world when it opened in 1917, standing 98 feet high. It was designed by John A. Miller and built by Herbert Paul Schmeck of the Philadelphia Toboggan Company. The ride was a staple of the park until its closure in 1984 to make way for a condominium development. After Paragon Park closed it relocated to Maryland, and reopened as The Wild One at Wild World in 1986.
The Coaster Dips was an iconic National Amusement Device wooden roller coaster at Glen Echo Park in Maryland, serving as the park's flagship attraction for nearly 50 years until it was demolished in 1969. The coaster featured a surprise 75-foot double-dip, with the lower 25 feet plunging below grade into a 30-foot deep ravine. This image captures the very definitiion of a trolley park; a marker can be found here today.
Tolchester Beach Amusement Park (1877-1962) in Maryland, featured a "Switchback" wooden roller coaster (likely 1986-1913). Other coasters would follow Switchback prior to closing. The park was a popular vacation spot for people from Baltimore and located North of Tolchester Beach road across from the Marina and is remebered by this historical marker.
The coaster Dips was a iconic wooden roller coaster at Glen Echo Park in Maryland. The ride opened in 1921 and was designed by Frank Moore. The ride offered views of the Potomac River from its highest peaks before plunging into deep wooded ravines. Hold on tight, this image show open front four bench trains and seemingly no seatbelts. It served as the park's flagship attraction for nearly 50 years until it was demolished in 1969.
Opened as The Skyrocket in May 1926 this L-shaped out and back. was at Elitch Gardens at the park's original location (38th and Tennyson) that closed with the park in 1994. At some point it was renamed the Wildcat, and the Mister Twister was built around much of the ride. This coaster was not moved or ressurected to the current downtown Denver location and has since been demolished.
The Blue Streak was a historic wooden roller coaster at Conneaut Lake Park in Pennsylvania, famous for its 1938 opening, unique design by Edward Vettel, and classic out-and-back layout through woods, beloved by fans for its charm despite its roughness, but it met its end in January 2022 when it was destroyed beyond saving during demolition. My favorite part sof this image are the three riders in the front seat and a kid on someones lap toward the back.
The Double-O or aka the Flying Daredevil, was a protoype launch roller coaster (or shuttle loop) by Arrow Dynamics at the former Circus World before being reimagined to Boardwalk and Baseball theme park in Haines City, Florida, which operated from 1987 to 1990. The park, originally called Circus World operted under that name from 1974-1986. The ride was relocated to Fun Spot park as Afterburner in Indiana.
The Double-O or aka the Flying Daredevil, was a protoype launch roller coaster (or shuttle loop) by Arrow Dynamics at the former Boardwalk and Baseball theme park in Haines City, Florida, which operated from 1987 to 1990. The park, originally called Circus World operted under that name from 1974-1986. The ride was relocated to Fun Spot park as Afterburner in Indiana.
This image is a postcard from the former Florida theme park, Boardwalk and Baseball, which operated from 1987 to 1990. Pictured is the "Florida Hurricane" roller coaster FKA "The Roaring Tiger". The park was located in Haines City, Florida, on the site of the former Circus World theme park. It was unique for combining carnival rides and games with a full baseball stadium, which served as the spring training home for the Kansas City Royals MLB team. Today a housing community flanking Jennifer Drive marks the former park location. This coaster was relocated to Magic Springs Theme Park in Arkansas.
This is a view of Bisby's Spiral Airship (1902-1915), one of the world's earliest suspended roller coasters; which operated in Long Beach, California. The gondolas could swing freely, with centrifugal forces making the cars swing outward during the long helical descent. The ride was located at The Pike, an amusement zone also known as Queens Park. This looks like one of the more frightening rides of the era.
This is another view of Bisby's Spiral Airship (1902-1915), one of the world's earliest suspended roller coasters; which operated in Long Beach, California. The gondolas could swing freely, with centrifugal forces making the cars swing outward during the long helical descent. The ride was located at The Pike, an amusement zone also known as Queens Park. This looks like one of the more frightening rides of the era.
This image captures the opening of the Scenic Railway (also known as the Roller Coaster) at Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach, circa 1932. The roller coaster was originally built for the 1929 Exposition Coloniale Internationale in Paris. The ride is a side-friction coaster and is manually controlled by a brakeman who rides on the train.
The Switchback Railway was an early wooden coaster along the shore of Folkeston England in the town of Margate. Designed by pioneer La Marcus Thompson, the wooden gravity ride featured a double-track reverse system with two camelback hills and two double dips. Some film footage of it exisits here. I picked up the postacrd because I never knew the ride existed and I liked there was writing on the front "different".
This image captures a moment at The Pike amusement park in Long Beach, California, featuring the famous Jack Rabbit Racer roller coaster likely from the 1910s or 1920s. The Pike amusement zone was eventually demolished in 1979.
This image captures a moment at The Pike amusement park in Long Beach, California, featuring the famous Jack Rabbit Racer roller coaster likely from the 1910s or 1920s. The Pike amusement zone was eventually demolished in 1979.
This image captures a moment at West Beach, part of The Pike amusement zone in Long Beach, California, likely from the 1960s. Looming in the background is The Cyclone Racer, a famous, dual-track wooden roller coaster at The Pike amusement park in Long Beach, California, operating from 1930 to 1968, known for its thrilling, intense ride over the water.
The Cyclone Racer was a famous, dual-track wooden roller coaster at built on pilings over the water at The Pike amusement park The Pike in Long Beach, California, operating from 1930 to 1968, known for its side-by-side racing and thrilling design over the water, with its legacy honored by a decorative track in the modern Pike development.
This generic view of Long Beach, CA pike amusement zone features the iconic structure of the Queens Park, Cyclone Racer; a large wooden dual-track "racing" roller coaster desgined by Frederick Church and built by Harry Traver that operated from 1930 through 1968. This twin track roller coaster was built on pilings directly over the ocean waves.
Playland Park in San Antonio, Texas operated from 1943 to 1980. It featured attractions like the Rocket roller coaster, a carousel, and a miniature golf course. It closed due to rising operating costs and financial troubles.
This (seemingly rare) wooden postcard commemorates the first day of operation for the Phoenix roller coaster at Knoebels Amusement Park on June 15, 1985. This double out and back coaster was originally designed by Herbert Schmeck in 1947, it was originally built as the "Rocket" at Playland Park in San Antonio, Texas. After the park closed in 1980 it was carefully dismantled and relocated to Knoebels with assistance of Charles Dinn. A rare case of a "saved and relocated" wooden coaster. In 1986, the Phoenix was designated an ACE Coaster Classic by American Coaster Enthusiasts.
The "Mountain Flyer" at Massachusetts' historic Mountain Park in Holyoke was a classic wooden roller coaster, designed by Herbert Schmeck, that operated until the park's closure in the early 1990s, with remnants of the park and coaster still visible on Mount Tom, though the ride itself is long gone, replaced by the park's eventual demolition, with the Flyer Comet at Whalom Park being another notable MA coaster around that time.
The "Dips" at Buckroe Beach was a classic wooden roller coaster, built by Philadelphia Toboggan Company (PTC) in 1925 for the Buckroe Beach Amusement Park in Hampton, Virginia, which operated from 1897 to 1985. Though not uncommon for ride of that era, the headlights on this train are a classic mid-century touch.
This image captures the amusement park at Salisbury Beach, Massachusetts, around 1910. A Ferris Wheel and bandstand are shown here as prominent features of the park. The Spiral Dip (right) was one of two prominent roller coasters operating at Salisbury Beach, Massachusetts, during the 1920s, alongside the Giant Thriller (left).
This image is a vintage postcard depicting the Spring Brook Park (1890-1960) amusement park in South Bend, Indiana. Likely shown here Jack Rabbit roller coaster by John A Miller. The site was Located near Ironwood Drive and Lincoln Way East. Strangely the Old Grandstand still resides there today along Titan Drive.
This view of Buckroe beach amusement park (1897-1985) shows an Old Mill and likely the Jack Rabbit (1897-1920) roller coaster. This area is immortalized by a historical marker near a playground at 100 S. First street.
This vintage postcard captures a moment at Paragon Park (1905-1985) Nantasket Beach, Massachusetts. This image features the possibly the Green Streak roller coaster and the Flying Horses Carousel. Paragon Park was eventually home to the Giant Coaster which was moved to Six Flags America.
This post card advertisement for Conneaut Lake Park in Pennsylvania, features the tagline "Take a Ride Back in Time". Established in 1892 as Exposition Park, the park began as a fairground and evolved into a beloved lakeside resort. Best known for its wooden roller coaster, the Blue Streak (which closed permanently in 2019). The park featured classic rides like the Tumble Bug, Carousel and Devils Den. Despite preservation efforts, the park is unrecognizable today. As of this writing, the beach, hotel and midways are some of the last remains. Though I had only visited three or four times, I still miss Conneaut Lake; it was bounded by Hwy 618, Reed and Woodland Avenues. There was once an ACE marker for the Blue Streak that has since been removed.
The L.A. Thompson Scenic Railway (1910-1919) was a roller coaster built in 1910 that extended over the ocean on pier pilings. It featured a "fantasy landscape" of artificial mountains and tunnels through which the coaster trains traveled. It was situated on the north end of the Venice Fishing Pier at Ocean Front Walk.
The Pikes Peak Railway at Coney Island was a gravity-powered scenic railway, featuring tunnels and simulated scenery. The popular man-made mountain attraction opererated from around 1906 to 1911, and built by LaMarcus Thompson.
Council Crest Park in Portland Oregon featued a Scenic Railway (1907-1929). It featured, another L.A. Thompson scenic railway, Carousel and Ferris Wheel. The boat in this image appears to be the entrance to "Trip Up the Columbia" a boat ride which seems to be shown on the right. Located at the city's highest point in the city the space is a public park today.
The Switchback Railway roller coaster was installed in 1895 at the Courtland Beach Amusement Park, Nebraska. The coaster operated from 1889 to around 1917. The coaster was notably designed by LeMarcus Thompson, the same person who built the very first roller coaster four years earlier at Coney Island in 1884.
Located appx at Beach and 104th Street the Switch Back (1893 to 1937) was an early attraction in Rockaway New York. A portion of the Shore Front Parkway (and seemingly a rhighrise building) resides on the site today.
This vintage image is a postcard showing the main boardwalk of Playland, Rockaway Beach, New York, likely from the 1920s or 1930s. The background likely shows the Hurricane (or possibly the Gravity Wonder) coaster (1924-1937) which pre-dated the Atom Smasher.
This postcard from Sylvan Beach shows a side friction coaster - likely a Figure Eight (1908-1920). The site is still a small amusement park today operating since 1870's,
This image features the Giant Coaster (1908-1915) at Brighton Beach, New York; which was destroyed in 1915 by a flood. The ride stood idle and was eventually dismantled and moved to Coney Island's Luna Park in 1923, reopening in 1924 as the Mile Sky Chaser. The park was roughly in the vicinity of present-day Brighton 2nd Street and Brightwater Court.
Replacing the iconic Loop the Loop coaster; The Giant Racer was a fast-paced steel-structured roller coaster that operated at Coney Island, Brooklyn, from 1911 to 1926. Situated on Surf Avenue and West 10th Street, it was touted as the largest, fastest coaster of its time before being torn down to make way for the Cyclone in 1927.
The Mountain Scenic Railway, later renamed The Alps, was a side-friction coaster that operated at Willow Grove Park from 1905 to 1974. The brakeman-style wooden roller coaster featured elaborate mountain-like theming waterfalls and multiple lift hills. It was the last surviving scenic railway of its type in North America and stood abandoned until its demolition in 1980.
Willow Grove Park (1896-1975) was a popular trolley park and amusement destination in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. Known for hosting many popular roller coasters; such as the Coal Mine, Alps, Thunderbolt, and Scenic Railway (the latter 3 are probably pictured here). The park was also famous for its concerts (hosting John Philip Sousa), before being demolished for the Willow Grove Park Mall.
The Jack Rabbit at Kennywood Park in Pennsylvania has been operating since 1920. Designed John A. Miller and built by Harry C. Baker the ride is known for it's gully hugging design and intense drops. At a height of only 40', it's double dipping 70' drop into a gully is a memorable thrilling moment.
A rite of passage for a young coaster fan like me, The Steel Phantom was a record-breaking Arrow Dynamics hyper-coaster that operated at Kennywood Amusement Park from 1991 to 2000. It was famous for its 80 mph speed, 225-foot drop into a natural ravine, and four inversions. After changing the layout and removing the inversions, it was transformed into Phantom's Revenge for the 2001 season.
The Racer, opened at Kennywood Park in 1927; designed by John A. Miller, featuring a single track that loops back on itself, creating a continuous ride where trains race on red and blue sides for a unique experience.
Known for it's surprising terrain hugging ravine drops, the Thunderbolt at Kennywood Park originally opened as the Pippin in 1924. The original design was by John Miller. It was later expanded in 1968 by Andy Vettel with a new helix section mand is considered a landmark attraction.
The Wildcat (1926-1938) was a legendary out and back roller coaster at Rocky Point Amusement Park in Warwick, RI. Sources say the Wildcat was known to be thrilling like many rides at regional parks at the time.
This image is a vintage postcard of the Scenic Railway at Rocky Point, Rhode Island, which operated as an amusement park from the mid-1800s until 1996. This image shows an LA Thompson Scenic Railway (surprise, surprise) which operated form 1914-1918.
The Wildcat (1928-1965) at Rocky Springs Park in Lancaster, PA was built by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company and designed Herbert Schmeck. Remembered for its terrain layout, tunnel and famous for its intense drops, it stood in operable for many years until it was demolished in 1990. Today a B&B resides on a portion of the old park land.
The Big Dipper roller coaster was at Springlake Amusement Park in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Designed by John A. Miller and built by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company (PTC). This out and back roller coaster operated from 1926 to 1981. A business complex currently occupies the site; where a few memory tree's from the park might remain along Metro Tech Drive.
The Wild Mouse at Elitch Gardens was a B.A. Schiff & Associates steel roller coaster that operated at the park from approximately 1960 to 1964. It was characterized by small cars traversing a tight, winding, and unbanked track. The ride was part of a popular trend of compact, high-lateral-force coasters in that era.
Opened as The Skyrocket in May 1926; the Wildcat roller coaster at Elitch Gardens. Designed by Herbert Schmeck it was an out and back wooden coaster at the park's original location (38th and Tennyson); which closed with the park in 1994. It did not move to the current downtown Denver location and has since been demolished. A residential community resides on the site today.
Mister Twister at the Original Elitch Garden's in Denver was built in 1965 in such a way the Wildcat piecered it's structure. Designed by John Allen, Mr. Twister travelled at 50 mph, had some 3,000' of track and featured a notable double helix and speedy claustrophobic tunnel. Though visduallly quite similar, The Twister II can be found at the new Elitch Gardens (2000 Elitch Circle) in Denver an another copy of Twister can be found at Knobel's Amusementy resort in Pennsylvania.
Far from the hustle and bustle of the California and Northeastern USA parks, Pontchartrain Beach (1928-1983) in New Oleans was a staple destination for locals. The Wildcat (1928-1951) was a prominent wooden roller coaster at the original Pontchartrain Beach amusement park near Bayou St. John in New Orleans. Designed by Prior and Church, before the park moved to its later Elysian Fields location.
The Zephyr (1939-1983) built by the National Amusement Device Company and designed by Edward A. Vettel. Though altered over time, it was a thrilling out and back coaster. Known for it's curved first drop, camelback hills, sweeping turn around and three tunnels; pictured above it could be said it was the parks crown jewel.
The roller coaster at Crescent Park in Riverside, East Providence, Rhode Island. Likely shown here is the Scenic Railway based on the "theming" out front. Crescent was a popular amusement park operating from 1886 to 1979. It played host to a dance hall, chutes ride and tunnel of love. Only the park's historic Looff Carousel remains today and is a protected landmark.
The Scenic Railway (1913-1930) roller coaster (a side friction coaster) operated at Easton's Beach in Newport, Rhode Island. Sometimes referred to as Newport Beach on postcards. The park ran along side of where memorial Blvd is today hosting mostly parking lots for beach access.
This is a vintage postcard of the Scenic Railway (1910-1918) another LA Thompson attraction was at Rocky Point Park (1847-1996) in Warwick, Rhode Island. A popular feature of this ride was the faux mountain scenery to imitate a journey; many other coasters were a part of the parks history. Today this same land is a state park.
The Race Thru the Clouds was Venice, California's iconic first racing wooden roller coaster, opening July 4, 1911. Built by Prior and Church with twin 4,000-foot tracks, a 90-foot height and a unique racing design by John Miller. The ride was remodled in 1913 and 1921 each time to make the ride more thrilling until it closed in 1923.
Built by the L.A. Thompson Company, the Scenic Railway (1910-1919) at Venice Pier was known for extending over the Pacific Ocean.
Roton Point Amusement Park in Norwalk, Connecticut, which operated from the late 1880s until 1941. The image specifically features the Tango Dipper before being extended and renamed Big Dipper. This roller coaster was designed John Miller and was located on West Beach. The park was located just west of where Wharf Road is today and is still used for swimming.
This early postcard image captures Lake Compounce, America's oldest continuously operating amusement park, located in Bristol, Connecticut. Shown here the Wildcat designed Herbert Paul Schmeck has been operating every summer since 1927.
The Giant Safety Coaster was a major wooden roller coaster at Forest Park Amusement Park in Forest Park, Illinois, a trolley park opened in the early 1900s, known for its impressive size and thrill for the era, it was a side friction coaster built by Fred Ingersoll. but the park closed in 1921, and the the land where the Giant Safety Coaster once stood is now occupied by the Forest Park Blue Line subway station and the Eisenhower Expressway.
The Great American Scream Machine at Six Flags Over Georgia is a classic wooden roller coaster, built by Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters (PTC) in 1973, that opened as the world's tallest, longest, and fastest at the time, featuring an L-shaped out-and-back design with a 105-foot height and 57 mph top speed, becoming a landmark attraction known for its classic wooden coaster experience and even running backward for its 20th (1993) anniversary. Designed mainly by John Allen and built by Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters it continues to operate as one of the park's most beloved attractions.
The Georgia Cyclone (1990-2017) was a classic wooden roller coaster built by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company and designed by Curtis Summers at Six Flags Over Georgia. The ride opened in 1990 as a mirror image of Coney Island's Cyclone, offering intense wooden coaster thrills, ultimately being re-engineered by Rocky Mountain Construction (RMC) into the modern hybrid/steel coaster, Twisted Cyclone, which opened in 2018.
The Mind Bender is the iconic Schwarzkopf steel roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia, opened in 1978. It is famous for its two 56' tall vertical loops and diagonal helix built into the terrain along 3200' of thrack. Upon opening, is was marketed as the world's first triple-loop coaster; the ride was later re-themed and renamed The Riddler Mindbender (2020) to fit the park's new Gotham City theme.
Following the original at Six Flags Over Texas; The Dahlonega Mine Train is the second ride of it's type from Arrow Dynamics, with more to follow industry wide. Utilizing Arrow's smooth, steel tubular track, allowed for tight turns, sudden dips, and unique layouts that mimicked mining operations, offering an exciting experience for all ages. The ride ended in a twisting underground "surprise" tunnel. As of this writing this ride is still operating.
Opening originally at Pontchartrain Beach in New Orleans as the Ragin' Cajun in 1978-1983 before moving to Lake George, NY in 1984. Still operating as of this writing, The Steamin' Demon at Great Escape, was built by Arrow Dynamics, is a classic steel coaster featuring a vertical loop and double corkscrew.
The Mountain Speedway was a prominent wooden coaster in Galveston, Texas. Known to be possibly one of the largest side friction coasters ever built; it featured 12 drops operated from the early 1920s until it was damaged by Hurricane Carla in 1961, leading to its demolition.
This image is a postcard featuring the Texas Star Ferris Wheel and a wooden roller coaster at Fair Park in Dallas, Texas. The Comet wooden roller coaster was a famous fixture at the State Fair of Texas in Fair Park, Dallas, operating from 1947 until 1986. Designed by Charles Paige and built by Sam Bert, the 59-foot-high coaster was once the largest in Texas. It closed due to high insurance costs and was dismantled in 1989.
Casino Beach Park at Lake Worth in Fort Worth, Texas, was home to an amusement park in the 1920s and 30s that featured The Thriller, a nearly one-mile-long, 72-foot-high roller coaster designed by John A. Miller. The park was located at Watercress Drive, now a city-owned park.
The Comet at Lincoln Park (North Dartmouth, MA) was a twister-layout wooden roller coaster built by The National Amusement Device Company. It operated from 1946 until the park's closure in 1987. Designed by Vernon Keenan the ride stood idle for two decades before the area was redevloped into a housing community. A memorial kiosk is situated at the southern end of the former park grounds; at Reed Road and Beeden Road.
The Cyclone (also known as the "Mountain Railway") was a wooden roller coaster at the former Excelsior Amusement Park in Excelsior, Minnesota. The coaster was an L-Shaped out and back built by Fred Pierce and designed by Vernon Keenan and operated from 1925 until Excelsior Parks closure in 1973. This image shows "single ratchting handle bars" A shopping and residential area now occupies the space.
Designed by John A. Miller and built by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company The Wild One, operated at (Adventure World, Wild World, Six Flags America) in Maryland from 1986 to 2025. The Wild One was relocated from Paragon Park in Massachusetts (then named the Giant Coaster, originally built in 1917).
Kennywood Parks Thunderbolt roller coaster began as the Pippin in 1924, designed by John Miller, featuring classic ravine drops. In 1968, it was transformed into the Thunderbolt by Andy Vettel, who added a new station, lift hill, and intense double helixes (the "Spaghetti Bowl") while retaining the popular ravine section.
Kennywood Parks Laser Loop (1980-1990) was a Schwarzkopf "flywheel launch shuttle" Coaster. With a top speed of 57 mph and a height of 137' it was a thrilling forward and backward experience. It is said this ride was sold to a Park in South America. This ride occupied land where Phantom's Revenge currently stands today.
The Figure Eight was Waldameer Park's very first roller coaster, from 1902 until 1937 as a relatively mild side-friction coaster designed by T.M. Harton. Serving as a cornerstone of the park's early transition from a picnic grove to a dedicated amusement park it featured a small drop and gentle speeds, representing the park's early history by Lake Erie. The foreground of this image seems to show construction debris; I'd like to image it's for this coaster, but I might be wrong.
The Figure Eight was Waldameer Park's very first roller coaster, from 1902 until 1937 as a relatively mild side-friction coaster designed by T.M. Harton. Serving as a cornerstone of the park's early transition from a picnic grove to a dedicated amusement park it featured a small drop and gentle speeds, representing the park's early history by Lake Erie.
A Figure Eight (1908-1915) side friction roller coaster operated at Erie Beach Park (1885-1930) in Fort Erie, Ontario. There are several crumbling concrete reminders of the park along the shore West of Waverly Beach.
The Tornado roller coaster originally known as The Bobs at Coney Island was a historic wooden coaster that operated from 1926 to 1978. It was renamed the Tornado in the 1930s. The ride no longer exists, as it was severely damaged by arson attacks in 1977 and subsequently demolished. The ride was located on the East Side Ruby Jacob's Walk and Bowery Street.
It's not often I can't find information about a ride. This Toboggan Slide obviously has more roller coaster attributes than slide and appears to possible have a breakman in the back of the cart. I love the details of this card, the ride looks harrowing and it is one of my favorite images from the past.
The Cannon Ball at Lake Winnepesaukah is a historic wooden roller coaster, designed by John C. Allen and built by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company in 1967. Located in Rossville, Georgia. The Cannon Ball features a 70-foot drop, 50 mph speeds, and two trains, one Union blue and one Confederate gray.
At appx 66' tall, The Derby Racer was a twin wooden racing roller coaster designed by John Miller; it was one of many iconic attractions located at Riverview Park in Chicago, Illinois, operating from 1909 until 1932. The image appears to also show the historic Cicle Swings.
Designed by John Miller, The Greyhound Roller Coaster in Celoron Park, NY, was Located on Chautauqua Lake. Celoron Park was a major amusement spot, and the Greyhound was a cornerstone. Until it was destroyed in a storm in 1959.
Coney Island in Cincinnati, Ohio, was a historic amusement and water park along the Ohio River that operated for over 150 years, starting as Parker's Grove in 1870 and rebranding in 1886. The park played host to many coasters most notably the Wildcat and Shooting Star, Known for the massive 1925 Sunlite Pool, the park was a major regional destination, survived severe flooding, was famously desegregated in the 1950s, and closed in 2023 to make way for new developments.
This vintage image is a postcard depicting riders on a roller coaster at Coney Island amusement park in Cincinnati, Ohio. Possibly the Dip the Dips coaster; variations of which operated from 1911 through 1925.
Coney Island in Cincinnati, Ohio, was a historic amusement and water park along the Ohio River that operated for over 150 years, starting as Parker's Grove in 1870 and rebranding in 1886. The park played host to many coasters most notably the Wildcat and Shooting Star, Known for the massive 1925 Sunlite Pool, the park was a major regional destination, survived severe flooding, was famously desegregated in the 1950s, and closed in 2023 to make way for new developments.
This vintage postcard image depicts the Coney Island amusement park in Cincinnati, Ohio, likely during the mid-20th century. Featured here are the Traver Circle Swing, skyride, main fountain and what appers to be the Shooting Star (1947-1971). Coney Island today is becoming an entertainment venue.
This image is a vintage postcard showing The Mall and the Wildcat roller coaster at Coney Island amusement park in Cincinnati, Ohio. The Wildcat (1926-1964) was the feature wooden roller coaster attraction built by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company.
This image is a vintage postcard depicting the "Riesen-Achterbahn" or (Giant Roller Coaster) a large traveling or temporary roller coaster at a German fairground. My reasearch leads me to believe this image was taken at Octoberfest in Munich in 1932.
This vintage postcard view depicts a side friction roller coaster (likely the Scenic Railway) at Newport Beach, Rhode Island. This ride operated possibly at Easton's Beach Park from 1913-1930. Opening in 1902 much of the park was destroyed by a hurricane in 1938. Note onlyy grab bars were available, no restraints whatsoever,
The Mountain Flyer roller coaster was located at Mountain Park in Holyoke, Massachusetts. A Philadelphia Tobboggan Coaster designed by Herbert Schmeck operated from 1929 until the park closed in 1987 after an accident on the miniature train ride. The "Flyer" stood abandoned until it was torn down in 1991.
This image captures the midway at Mountain Park in Holyoke, Massachusetts, around the mid-1930s. The park was a popular amusement destination located on Mount Tom. The prominent roller coaster in the image was built in 1929 and originally named the "Mountain Wildcat". Its name was changed to the Mountain Flyer in 1953. The park survived the Great Depression and remained a popular destination until it closed in 1987.
The "Coaster Dips" roller coaster operated at the at the former Glen Echo Park in Maryland from 1921-1968. It appears "Do Not Stand Up" is painted on the front of the train (a rarity in itself); it also appears one only way to keep oneself safe is to hold onto fixed grab bars. The park and some amusement left-overs remain in this public space and now a part of a National Park.
Designed by Vernon Keenan. The Atom Smasher roller coaster was a wooden coaster at Rockaway's Playland in Queens, NY, known for its starring role in the 1952 film "This Is Cinerama," which showcased its thrilling POV, and operated from 1938 until the park closed in 1985. Featuring the iconic National Amusement Device Co. headlights and JoJo (park mascot) motif theres no confusing tthis ride for another. The property is now occupied by a residential community.
The historical Grand Canyon Scenic Railroad was a (possibly a powered) wooden roller coaster that operated on the Frasers Million Dollar Pier in Ocean Park, California from 1911 to 1912. The ride had elaborate artificial canyons, caves and a volcano that appeared to erupt with "lava" (colored lights) at night.
Perkins Park in Cambridge Springs, Pennsylvania, had a roller coaster called the Blue Streak which opened on July 4, 1912, but the park was short-lived and closed in 1914. It was located appx. East of South Main street along the railroad tracks and French Creek. The park was notably designed by John Miller, a well-respected roller coaster designer.
The Carolina Goldrusher is a classic, original mine train steel roller coaster at Carowinds that opened with the park on March 31, 1973, and is known as the first coaster in the U.S. to cross a state line (NC/SC). Designed by Ron Toomer and built by Arrow Dynamics, it features two lift hills, drops, helixes, and a tunnel, offering a family-friendly adventure through the park's Carolina foothills. Note the American Indian performers in the foreground.
The Sky Blazer (1946-1966) roller coaster was designed by Vernon Keenon and located at White City Amusement Park in West Haven, CT. It operated (near but not as part of Savin Rock Amusement Park) approximately where Palace Street is located today.
The Giant Flyer (likely pictured here) was a roller coaster that operated at the former Savin Rock Amusement Park in West Haven, Connecticut. It was previously known as the "Thunderbolt" (built in 1925, destroyed by a hurricane in 1938) and operated under the "Giant Flyer" name from 1939 until 1956.
Savin Rock was a storied summer destination and of all the stories the Thunderbolt (1925-1938) is so often told. The ride stretched out on pilings over the ocean and was known to be the parks most noatble ride. Today, the area is a scenic walk and bike path along the shoreline. The former park is bi-sected by the current Palace Street.
White City was a popular amusement park section within the larger Savin Rock Park in West Haven, Connecticut, operating from 1903 until the late 1960s. Often called "Connecticut's Coney Island," it featured roller coasters like the Thunderbolt, carousels, and a boardwalk, drawing over a million visitors annually by 1919. It was demolished in the 1960s for redevelopment.
This post card shows an early view of Rock Springs Park in Chester W. Virginia; showing a Chutes type ride and seemingly, a "Figure 8" Leap the Dips (1906-1921). A park historical marker is at the intersection of Carolina Avenue (West Virginia Route 2) and Lincoln Highway (U.S. 30).
This later view of Rock Springs Park in Chester W. Virginia; shows the Chutes and two roller coasters, to the right, a "Figure 8" Leap the Dips (1906-1921) and bottom, the World's Great Scenic Railway (1907-1926). A park historical marker is at the intersection of Carolina Avenue (West Virginia Route 2) and Lincoln Highway (U.S. 30).
A glimpse of the World's Great Scenic Railway roller coaster at the now-defunct Rock Springs Park (1897–1970) in Chester, West Virginia. The wooden roller coaster operated in the park from 1907 to 1926. Shortly after its completion, the original structure was blown down by a windstorm and had to be rebuilt.The park closed permanently in the 1970s and the land was later used for new approaches to the Jennings Randolph Bridge on U.S. Route 30.
The Double Loop at Geauga Lake operated from 1977-2007 and was designed by Arrow Dynamics; making history with the first two consecutive vertical loops when it opened. The park closed due to declining attendance, with its rides salvaged for other parks and the site eventually redeveloped.
FBuilt in 1925 by legendary designer John A. Miller. Originally named the The Clipper, then The Skyrocket; the Geauga Lake Big Dipper was 65 feet tall, reached speeds of 32–35 mph, and featured a 2,680-foot "out and back" layout. The Big Dipper closed with the park in 2007 and stood dormant until 2016 where the land was repurposed.
The Corkscrew at Geauga, was a clone of the original at Knott's Berry Farm was designed by Arrow Dynamics (the pioneer of modern inversions), the ride featured two sequential corkscrews. The ride was sold to another park and spot was filled with yet another coaster. The park today is now being reinvented into a residential community.
Built in 1925 by legendary designer John A. Miller. Originally named the The Clipper, then The Skyrocket; Geauga's Lake Big Dipper was 65 feet tall, reached speeds of 32–35 mph, and featured a 2,680-foot "out and back" layout. The ride closed with the park in 2007 and stood dormant until 2016 where the land was repurposed.
Yet another legendary attraction from Schwarzkopf and Stengel... Montezooma’s Revenge opened in 1978 as the world's first flywheel-launched shuttle loop coaster. Using aircraft carrier technology, the ride launched guests to from 0-55 mph in 4.5 seconds; negotiating it's 800' of track forward and backward in just 36 seconds. This ride ceased operation in 2022 with the hopes of reopening in the future..
Known for being a forcefull shuttle coaster that looped around the station. Originally built for Wiener Prater, Austria, as "Wiener Looping" in 1982 -but never opened-, in 1985 it was reassembled at Boardwalk and Baseball; Florida, United States until it's closure. The Bullet operated at Flamingoland in Malton, England from 1991-2005 then relocated again to Selva Magica in Jalisco, Mexico in 2013.
Hershey Park's famous Sooperdooperlooper; a Schwarzkopf roller coaster designed by Werner Stengel opened in 1977. It was the first modern looping coaster on the East Coast, following the Revolution at Magic Mountain. Known for it's terrain hugging design, vertical loop and tunnel. This ride is still operating at the time of this writing.
Though not an antique image... yet... The Revolution at Six Flags Magic Mountain designed by Anton Schwarzkopf. Opening in 1976, it is notable for being the first tubular steel "vertical" looping roller coaster. Three points of interest are the three trains operating simultaneously (great photo editing work for the time). Also, the lack of other rides and foliage as compared to today really highlight how the park has changed in some 50 years.
Two years after the opening of the Revolution; the Colossus opened at Magic Mountain in 1978. In 2015, the ride was closed or rather converted into Twisted Colossus a Hybrid coaster. Standing 125 feet tall, it was considered to be the world's tallest and fastest. With speeds of 62 mph, it was the first coaster to feature two drops over 100 feet. This ride was featured in many movies and no longer dominates the skyline as much more grandoise rides have been built in the park since.
Derby Races (1911-1936) was the name of two wooden roller coasters that operated at Revere Beach, Massachusetts. the Revere Beach Promenade in Massachusetts Built in 1911 by Fred W. Pearce, it was a "racing" side-friction coaster featuring two side-by-side tracks in a figure-eight configuration. This version features the horse and buggy predating the automobile.
Derby Races (1911-1936) was the name of two wooden roller coasters that operated at Revere Beach, Massachusetts. the Revere Beach Promenade in Massachusetts Built in 1911 by Fred W. Pearce, it was a "racing" side-friction coaster featuring two side-by-side tracks in a figure-eight configuration. This version shows an autombobile in place of the horse and buggy.
The Revere Beach Thunderbolt 1921 to 1930 was designed by John A. Miller. This view shows ride has some amazing looking flat turns and air-time moments, it must have been a wild ride.
A more detailed view.. Derby Races (1911-1936) was the name of two wooden roller coasters that operated at Revere Beach, Massachusetts. the Revere Beach Promenade in Massachusetts Built in 1911 by Fred W. Pearce, it was a "racing" side-friction coaster featuring two side-by-side tracks in a figure-eight configuration.
The Lightning (operated from 1927 to 1933) roller coaster at Revere Beach, Massachusetts, around the late 1920s. It was one of three identical "Giant Cyclone Safety Coasters" designed by Harry Traver; the others were named The Cyclone at Palisades Park and Crystal Beach, Ontario.
This is a vintage postcard featuring the "New Roller Coaster" at Paragon Park in Nantasket Beach, Massachusetts. The coaster shown was later known as the "Thunderbolt". The park closed in December of 1976. There is a historical marker at the corner of Hull and Nantasket Ave.
The John A. Miller designed The Jack Rabbit (1916-1964) at Revere Beach in Massachusetts, established in 1896, is the first public beach in the United States, designed by landscape architect Charles Eliot to preserve natural features while providing public recreation. Spanning 3 miles, it became a major, bustling amusement destination in the early 20th century with roller coasters and dance halls.
This image is a vintage postcard depicting the White City Amusement Park in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts. Shown here is possibly The Zip (later renamed Cyclone) The park operated for 55 years, from its opening in 1905 until it permanently closed on Labor Day in September of 1960. Located on the shore of Quinsigamond Lake and Route 9, the area is now a retail space.
Joyland amusement park (1913-1927) in Oak Park, Sacramento, featured a the Scenic Railway a side friction figure-8 roller coaster (a very popular design for this era) built by Fred Ingersoll. After a major fire, Valentine McClatchy bought and donated the land; the park was located at the site of what is now McClatchy Public Park.
The historical Reverser roller coaster (likely pictured here) operated at Saltair amusement park near Salt Lake City from 1915 until it was destroyed by fire in April 1925. The ride was a unique side friction coaster that used a special track section to reverse the direction of the car 180 degrees. The original Saltair amusement zone operated from 1893-1925 before being reimagined.
The image shows the Orient Express (1980-2003) roller coaster, which was located at Worlds of Fun in Kansas City, Missouri. Manufactured by Arrow Dynamics, it was known for its innovative design which featured two interlocking loops and featured a total of four inversions.
Worlds of Fun hosted two seperate roller coasters called the Zambezi Zinger; the one pictured here was a Schwarzkopf "Speed Racer" model that operated from 1973-1997. Though only reaching a top speed of 41 mph it was celebrated for its visually impressive spiral lift, ground hugging terrain and tunnel. In 2023 the ride was reimaged into a wooden coaster; though featuring a different layout the new ride kept with some of the celebrated aspects.
The image shows the Orient Express (1980-2003) roller coaster, which was located at Worlds of Fun in Kansas City, Missouri. Manufactured by Arrow Dynamics, it was known for its innovative design which featured two interlocking loops and featured a total of four inversions.
Schussboomer was an Anton Schwarzkopf-designed "Wildcat" steel roller coaster that operated as an opening-day attraction at Worlds of Fun in Kansas City, Missouri, from 1973 to 1984. Located in the Scandinavia area, it was known for its tight and level turns. The ride was removed after the 1984 season and replaced by the Festhaus.
The original Zambezi Zinger was a beloved steel roller coaster at Worlds of Fun in Kansas City, operating from opening day on May 26, 1973, until 1997. Designed by Anton Schwarzkopf, it featured a unique spiral lift hill, reached speeds of 41 mph, and was famous for its high-speed, low-to-the-ground, tree-lined, and tunnel-covered layout.
The postcard shows a wooden side-friction Roller Coaster (possibly called the Mammoth) built among trees; basically a figure eight design. Canobie Lake Park, located in Salem, NH, opened in 1902 and remains operational today, making this a historic view of the park's early attractions.
Old Chicago (1975–1980) in Bolingbrook, Illinois, was an indoor amusement park and shopping center. Opening soon after the one at Knott's Berry Farm, the iconic Chicago Loop roller coaster was indoors!! This amusement park and some 200 stores, failed due to financial issues and closed in 1980. As of this writing this ride is now operating at Canobie Lake.
This image shows The Yankee Cannon Ball roller coaster at Canobie Lake Park in Salem, New Hampshire. This L-shaped out and back roller coaster was relocated from Lakewood Park in Waterbury CT in 1936. This classic ride was still in operation at the time of this writing.
Opening in 1998 and built by O.D. Hopkins at Ghost Town in The Sky, The Red Devil (aka Cliffhanger) was a ride built on a mountainside some 4,600 feet above a valley in North Carolina. Notable for a drop directly out of the station into a vertical loop and the mountain scenery. The park owners filed for bankruptcy in 2009 and as of 2026 the ride and park still stands dormant and inoperable.
A significant piece of roller coaster history, the Knott's Berry Farm's Corkscrew, opened in 1975, was the world's first modern inverting steel roller coaster, featuring two corkscrew inversions and shoulder harnesses, a huge innovation and protoype by Ron Toomer of Arrow Development Company. After making way for the boomerang on the same site. The boomerang was sold to Silverwood Theme Park in 1989.
The Windjammer Surf Racers (1997-2000) was a steel racing roller coaster with loops at Knott's Berry Farm, CA. The Togo branded Crazy Mouse coaster was demolished in July 2001 due to persistent operational, mechanical issues and design flaws, after it's closure the Xcelerator roller coaster was built in its place.
Cedar Point's Gemini is prominent in this image rare classic postcard. A massive Arrow Dynamics racing coaster the Gemini opened in 1978 and instantly recognized as the "tallest, fastest, steepest" coaster at 125 feet and 60 mph, using a unique wood structure with steel track to re-create a popular racing experience that helped define Cedar Point's growth and paved the way for future growth. Cedar Point has been a host to some 30+ roller coasters subce opening in 1870.
Bembom Brothers Theme Park, which was the temporary name of the Dreamland amusement park in Margate, UK, during the 1980s and 1990s. The park was operated by the Dutch Bembom family from the Netherlands in 1981. The park featured several rides, including the "Looping Star" roller coaster and the "Scenic Railway" wooden roller coaster. The Bembom's operated the park until 1999, after which the park's condition declined. Dreamland has since been restored and reopened as a vintage amusement park.
Vandercook Lake amusement park, originally known as Hague Park, was a popular Jackson, Michigan, destination from the 1890s until 1938. Known for the "Jack Rabbit" figure-8 roller coaster and a scenic toboggan slide, it was a major tourist attraction during its 1910-1920 peak before a 1923 fire and the Great Depression led to its closure and conversion into a county park.
Vandercook Lake amusement park, originally known as Hague Park, was a popular Jackson, Michigan, destination from the 1890s until 1938. Known for the "Jack Rabbit" figure-8 roller coaster and a scenic toboggan slide, it was a major tourist attraction during its 1910-1920 peak before a 1923 fire and the Great Depression led to its closure and conversion into a county park.
The Sky Streek roller coaster began at Boblo Island Amusement Park (Canada) as the Thunderbolt in 1973. The only coaster in the U.S.A. built by Japanese company Sansei. Renamed Sky Streek in 1977, it was a unique steel coaster known for airtime until the park closed in 1993, when the ride was then moved to Selva Mágica in Mexico.
The Flyer at the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) was a legendary 1953 wooden roller coaster designed by Joe McKee. The 62' tall ride offered "thrills galore" until 1992 when its wooden structure was dismantled. As a fairground, other rides would regularly be installed such as the Wild Mouse and Jumbo Jet; this image shows a Schwarrzkopf double loop in the background; dating this image possibly in the early 1980's.
After being relocated at one year 1996 at Grona Lund in Sweden, the Thriller roller coaster was a portable ride designed Werner Stengel, built by Anton Schwarzkopf and was a staple of German fair curcuit in the late 1980's and early 1990's. With a 70 degree first drop, four inversions and reportedly with forces as high as 6.5 G's. The ride would be transported to new locations three more times... to Texas, California then Mexico each time with slight alterations before being scrapped in 2021.
Early postcard of Knott's Camp Snoopy now Nickelodeon Universe (at Mall of America); a large indoor amusement park showing the Ripsaw roller coaster (now the Pepsi Orange Streak) which efficiently opertated with two 15 car trains that accomdated 30 guests. with some 2600' of track and a top speed of 30 mph it provided a sceinc ride through the park.
The Viper (1989-2005) at Six Flags AstroWorld was a Schwarzkopf looping steel coaster, originally Jet Scream at Six Flags St. Louis (1981-1988). Relocated to Houston, it was repainted green with a dragon-themed tunnel added for its single inversion. Following the closure of AstroWorld in 2005, the ride was demolished and sold for scrap in early 2006; whereas it's trains were utilized for spare parts elsewhere in the Six Flags chain.
Lightnin' Loops was a dual-shuttle roller coaster that operated at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey, from 1978 to 1992. It was unique for being the world's only interlocking dual shuttle coaster, featuring two seprate tracks whose vertical loops crossed through each other. After being dismantled, each track was sold to different parks; Adenture World and Frontier City.
This Six Flags Great Adventure postcard features general views that inlcude the Runaway Mine Train and notably Rolling Thunder (1979-2013), designed by Bill Cobb, it was a wooden racing roller coaster at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, New Jersey. It served as the park's first and only wooden coaster for decades. The ride featured an out and back / figure eight layout and each side was appx 3,200' in length and offered a distinctly different experience.
Six Flags Magic Mountain's Ninja in Valencia, California, is a historic "suspended swinging" roller coaster; one of only ten rides of this style was designed by Arrow Dynamics. This version ride has a lift hill at the beginning and the end as the rides staion is atop a hill; the latter being the primary lift. Ninja is built on a wooded hillside and upon opening in 1988 was the fastest suspended roller coaster in the world at 55 mph.
Shockwave (1986-1988) was an Intamin branded stand-up roller coaster at Six Flags Magic Mountain; later moved to Six Flags Great Adventure as Shockwave, then to Six Flags Astroworld As Batman the Escape. It featured a vertical loop and some 2300' of track; afterward, this same space was later occupied by the the Psyclone, then the Apocalypse roller coasters.
Shockwave (1990-1992) was an Intamin brand stand-up roller coaster at Six Flags Magic Mountain; later moved to Six Flags Great Adventure as Shockwave, then to Six Flags Astroworld as part of it's ride rotation program and was reportedly been scrapped. The ride was appx where the Great American Road Race go carts resides today.
Big Bend was a popular Schwarzkopf Speed Racer steel roller coaster that operated at Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington from June 20, 1971, until November 25, 1979. Known for its unique, coaster-driven electrical lifts, twin spirals, and 52 mph speeds, it was a major, albeit temporary, high-thrill, low-capacity attraction during the 1970s.
Big Bend was a popular Schwarzkopf Speed Racer steel roller coaster that operated at Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington from June 20, 1971, until November 25, 1979. Known for its unique, coaster-driven electrical lifts, twin spirals, and 52 mph speeds, it was a major, albeit temporary, high-thrill, low-capacity attraction during the 1970s.
The Rebel Yell is a classic wooden racing coaster at Kings Dominion, opening with the park in 1975, Designed by John Allen and built by Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters; the ride is recognized for its twin racing tracks, starring role in the movie Rollercoaster, and inspiring the American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) to form. It was renamed Racer 75 in 2018 to remove Confederate naming convention.
Carowind's Scooby Doo was designed by the legendary John C. Allen and built by Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters, this classic "junior" coaster debut in 1975. The Scooby Doo coasters naming convention changed several times throught the years based on management and intellectual properties of the era. Nearly identical models of this ride can be found at Kings Dominion and Kings Island.
A more contemporary defunct classic roller coaster was The Big Bad Wolf at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, running from 1984 to 2009, built by Arrow Dynamics, known for its unique swinging ride through a Bavarian village motif and speedy turns over the park's Rhine River. This coaster was the second to be built using the swinging suspended technology which followed on the heels of the Bat at Kings Island (1981-1983). This land mass was repurposed for the Verbolten Roller Coaster using the Big Bad Wolf's former station and some footers. Verboltens finale features a similar plunging drop over the river as a memorial to the Big Bad Wolf.
The Python (1976-2006) was a steel roller coaster at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. It was the park's first roller coaster and Florida's first to feature an inversion; specifically a double corkscrew. At a height of 72' and speeds of 40 mph. Designed by Arrow Dynamics this was a popular roller coaster design during this era. The ride stood where the "Tree Tops Trails" are today.
Drachen Fire at Busch Gardens Williamsburg was initially hailed for being innovative, but gained a reputation for causing headaches and neck pain for riders. To address this issue, one of the inversions was removed after the 1994 season, reducing the inversion count from six to five. The ride closed in 1998, and it was scrapped in 2001. The site is now being used for: The Wolf's Revenge.
This postcard show an overview of Mountain Park in Holyoke, MA, began as a scenic trolley park in 1894 and evolved into an amusement park before closing permanently in the fall of 1987. The roller coaster shown is the Flyer, which opened in 1929 and closed withg the park.
The Thunderbolt a side friction roller coaster operated at Rockaway Beach at 102nd and Beach streets in Queens, NY. The foreground shows the "Waves Baths Pavillion" which dates the image to the 1930's (at the earliest). The ride was known for extending out over the ocean.
With the exception of the Texas Cyclone every coaster in this Six Flags Astroworld image was moved to or from somewhere else. Almost humorously to keep up with.. Greezed Lightnin' 1978-2005 was moved to Joyland in Lubbock Texas. Batman the Escape 1993-2005 was previously the Shockwave at Magic Mountain. Ultra Twister 1990-2005 was previously at Six Flags Great Adventure, and finally "Taz's" Texas Tornado came to Astroworld from Europe, the was transported to Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, then again to a park in Mexico (from where it was disposed).
Though not pictured here, Excalibur (1972-1998) went to Frontier City, Mayan Mindbender (1995-2005) went to Wonderland Park, Serial Thriller (1999-2005) was moved to LaRonde. Also lost in the 2005 closure was the XLR8 suspended coaster and Serpent mini mine train.
Pictured here (before 1987) with wooden Philadelphia Tobboggan trains, the Texas Cyclone (1976-2005) operated at six Flags Astroworld in the Coney Island section. Designed by Bill Cobb as a mirrored image of the Coney Island Cyclone; yet, taller and faster. With a 53.0° first drop and known for it's negative G forces. It was a highly regarded thrill ride for it's time. It closed in 2005 and then demolished in 2006.
Pictured here (after 1987) with Morgan designed Fiberglass trains, the Texas Cyclone (1976-2005) operated at six Flags Astroworld in the Coney Island section. Designed by Bill Cobb as a mirrored image of the Coney Island Cyclone; yet, taller and faster. With a 53.0° first drop and known for it's negative G forces. It was a highly regarded thrill ride for it's time. It closed in 2005 and then demolished in 2006.
The Port Arthur Pleasure Pier opened in 1897. This post card image of the Roller Coaster a side friction coaster likely taken after 1913. Simply documented that a swimming pool and a dance hall accompanied the roller coaster on the small, man-made island.
The Port Arthur Pleasure Pier opened in 1897. This view features the Comet roller coaster (1941-1958), designed by Herbert Schmeck and built by Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters. It was once described as the largest wooden roller coaster in the South. The comet was destroyed and removed after being heavily damaged by a Hurricane.
Pine Island park (1902-1961) was a Trolley Park located in Manchester New Hampshire. The coaster shown was a typical Figure Eight design for the era. Not to be confused with a nearby playground of the same name; the park was located on the East of Goffs Falls Road and Pond Drive; it seems to be a combination of offie parking and a wooded lot today.
Buckeye Lake Amusement Park operated from 1930 until its closure in 1970. It featured a large Crystal Pool, and the Crystal Ballroom welcomed famous big bands and musicians. The background shows the Dips roller coaster (1924-1958), designed by John Miller it was an out and back roller coaster that went over a portion of the lake. The coaster suffered fatalities in the 1930's. The ride finally shuttered after 16 people were injured in another accident in 1958; racial tensions were also prominent. Today, this area is part of Buckeye Lake State Park.
Buckeye Lake Amusement Park operated from 1930 until its closure in 1970. It featured a large Crystal Pool, and the Crystal Ballroom welcomed famous big bands and musicians. The background shows the Dips roller coaster (1924-1958), designed by John Miller it was an out and back roller coaster that went over a portion of the lake. The coaster suffered fatalities in the 1930's. The ride finally shuttered after 16 people were injured in another accident in 1958; racial tensions were also prominent. Today, this area is part of Buckeye Lake State Park.
The Shock Wave roller coaster at Six Flags Over Texas opened in 1978. Another Schwarzkopf Stengel collaboration; it was the second double looping roller coaster built only following the Double Loop (1977) at Geauga Lake. The ride is some 3600' in length, reaches speeds of 60 mph and is believed it can generate Forces up to 5.9 Gs.
Early image from Six Flags over Texas showing the Runaway Mine Train (1966), the Mini Mine Train (1969) and a Steam train. Designed by Arrow Development’s Ron Toomer, The Runaway Mine Train was the first installation of the mine train genre; it features three lift hills and two tunnels.
The Runaway Mine Train at Six Flags Over Texas holds a legendary place in amusement park history as the world’s first mine train roller coaster. It was also the first coaster designed by Ron Toomer and the first of many mine train models. The ride featured three lift hills, two tunnels and appx. 2500' of track.
Savin Rock amusement park in West Haven, CT, featured several roller coasters including the Giant Racer in the early 1900's. Previously called The White City and established in the 1870s, the park closed in 1966.
Savin Rock amusement park in West Haven, CT, featured several attractions including the Mill Chute in the early 1900's. Some may technically labl Mill Chutes as a coaster, this image certainly look like one. Previously called The White City and established in the 1870s, the park closed in 1966.
Carlin's Park was a park in Baltimore, Maryland. It was founded in 1918 by John J. Carlin. Pictured here was possibly the Dip-The-Dips (1919-1949) coaster the Deep Dipper (in some sources), Carlins Park Closed in the 1960's where a drive in movie theater was built. The park was bounded approximately where Carlin's Park Drive, Druid Park Drive and Reisterstown Road are today.
Tolchester Beach (1877-1962) Amusement Park was a popular summer destination in Maryland, on the Chesapeake Bay; it was accessible by steamboat from Baltimore. The Whirl Pool Dips (1913-1959) was a classic side friction coaster. A Historical marker marks its former location still today.
This postcard, circa 1930's, shows Euclid Beach Park in Cleveland, Ohio, showcasing the station for the "Flying Turns" (1930-1969). A ride perfected by Norman Bartlett in which the coaster train would roll "freely" through a wooden trough. Today, the location at 159th street is a city park with apartment buildings; the main park entry arch still exists today.
Figure Eight coasters were a very popular design in the early days, they featured a variety of layouts. This one operated from 1912-1957 at Camden Park in West Virginia. Most of these rides existed at parks that have long closed. Camden Park opened in 1903 as a picnic park and is still in operation as an amusement park. Though the Figure Eight is long gone... at the time of this writing the park is still a destination for historians operating a 1961 wooden Kiddie Coaster, Whip, Haunted House, Paratrooper, Carousel, Pony Cart and Flying Scooter.
Figure 8 side-friction roller coaster at White City Amusement Park (also known as Lake View Park) in Sheboygan, Wisconsin.
This is a vintage postcard of the West View Park amusement park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The coaster seen here was likely the Figure Eight (a popular design at the time). The park operated from 1906 until it closed in 1977 when the land was developed into a shopping center.
Designed by Edward Vettel, the Dips (1912-1977) was a wooden coaster located in West View Park in Pittsburgh, PA. An out-and-back design, later it famously incorporated a steep, curving turnaround known as the "Devil's Bend" becoming one of the most popular rides at the park. It closed with the park in 1977.
Designed by Edward Vettel, the Dips (1912-1977) was a wooden coaster located in West View Park in Pittsburgh, PA. An out-and-back design, later it famously incorporated a steep, curving turnaround known as the "Devil's Bend" becoming one of the most popular rides at the park. It closed with the park in 1977.
Besides rides like the Tumble Bug, Caterpillar, Fun Houses and dark rides, The Racing Whippet (1927-1977) (barely visible here) was located in West View Park in Pittsburgh, PA. Designed by Edward Vettel, the ride featured a mobious loop path. It closed with the park in 1977.
Bell's Amusement Park (1951-2006), was a historic 10 acre amusement park that operated in Tulsa, Oklahoma It served as a major local attraction along the historic Route 66. The park was well-known for its classic rides, including the Zingo (1968-2006) wooden roller coaster.
This vintage postcard is of what I believe to be a "roller coaster" as a description onlly. Other Postcards have it listed as "A Giant Roller Coaster" Pictured is possibly the Wildcat roller coaster (1927-1960) at Riverview Beach Park in Pennsville, New Jersey. The postcard dates from approximately 1930–1945; this ride may have been designed by Herbert Schemeck.
Riverview Beach was a popular amusement park along the Delaware River in southern New Jersey that operated from the late 1800s until the mid-20th century. The park was well-known for its two wooden roller coasters, the Hummingbird and the Wildcat.
This image depicts a scene from Olympic Park in Irvington, New Jersey, a popular amusement destination that operated from 1887 to 1965. This image likely shows the Figure Eight (1905-1920) roller coaster. A small memorial at Chancellor and Camptown roads marks the parks former location today.
Built in July of 1894, Island Park resided along the Lehigh River. Figure Eight roller coasters were popular around the country at the time. A a Ferris wheel, Carousel and old mill were also found at the Park. This space today is curently known as Hugh Moore Park with hiking and boating activities.
In this image of The Thriller (1924-1969) at Euclid Beach was flanked by the Flying turns on the right and the Derby Racer on the left. The Thriller was a wooden coaster designed by Herbert Schmeck and built by Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters. It boasted a 71-foot tall first hill and used an "out and back" L-shaped layout. Shortly after it openong it's second hill was lowered to increase the "airtime" experience. After being left for forgotten after the park closed in 1969, it was demolished in 1971.
The Derby Racer was a famous John A. Miller-designed wooden racing roller coaster at Euclid Beach, opening in 1913 as the Derby Racer, it was later renamed Racing Coaster. This ride featured a unique Möbius loop track where opposing trains raced side-by-side before merging and ending on opposite sides of the station, operating until the park closed in 1969. Quite like it's neighbor the Thriller; it stood idle for two years and demolished in 1971.
The Scenic Railway (1907-1937) at Euclid Beach Park. The ride to the left is likely the Scenic Railway; on the right, The Derby Racer (1913-1969).
This image is a postcard view of the Mammoth Velvet Coaster under construction at the Zoo in Springfield, Illinois; possibly called the Giant Racer. It was designed by John Miller and was allegedly the world's largest racing coaster at the time it opened in 1910. The former park site now is the location of a residential community North of the Spring Creek sewage treatment plant.
Image from approximately 1910 showing the pavilion and roller coaster Liberty Amusement Park at Lake Gogouac (1864-1932) in Battle Creek, Michigan. The coaster shown was likely a Figure Eight side friction coaster; a popular design all over the USA at the time.The Park may have been located just West of Jennings Landing and North of Willard Park, where parkings lots are currently located.
This postcard image shows the Lightning Racer in Redondo Beach, CA. The racing twin track wooden roller coaster was built in 1913 and situated above the ocean, offering riders 28-foot drops. The original structure was destroyed and rebuilt after a storm in 1915; then demolished in 1923 to make for the Giant Dipper roller coaster in 1924.
This postcard image shows the Lightning Racer in Redondo Beach, CA. The racing twin track wooden roller coaster was built in 1913 and situated above the ocean, offering riders 28-foot drops. The original structure was destroyed and rebuilt after a storm in 1915; then demolished in 1923 to make for the Giant Dipper roller coaster in 1924.
Built by Prior & Church and designed by John Miller; The Race Thru the Clouds (1911-1923) operated at at Venice Pier at Venice, California. It featured a dual-track racing design with two parallel tracks, each 4,000 feet long. Notice this image also shows Thomas Prior as the General Manager.
Originally called the "Aerial Racing Coaster," this vintage postcard depicts the "Race Thru the Clouds" roller coaster at the Grand Lagoon in Venice, California, circa 1911-1915. The roller coaster was torn down in 1924 , the canals were filled in and transformed into local streets like Main Street and the traffic circle.
Originally called the "Aerial Racing Coaster," this vintage postcard depicts the "Race Thru the Clouds" roller coaster at the Grand Lagoon in Venice, California, circa 1911-1915. The roller coaster was torn down in 1924 , the canals were filled in and transformed into local streets like Main Street and the traffic circle.
A song and even books have been written about the storied Palisades Amusement Park 1898 to 1971. A beloved New Jersey destination atop a hill looming over the Hudson River taunting New Yorkers to "Come On Over". Evolving from a trolley park into a major resort with iconic roller coasters; Rocket Ride, saltwater pool and midway shows. Famous for its stunning views, beauty pagents and mid-century modern architecture. Over the years the park hosted some 16 coasters; however the park was raized for a high-rise development, leaving behind only a small memorial.
Palisades Amusement Park (1898-1971) featured mid-century design that was characteristic of the era's bright, vibrant pop culture and "Atomic Age" aesthetic. It's Googie style influences, with large, colorful, illuminated signage and unique architectural forms created a lively atmosphere that attracted millions from the 1950s to its closure in 1971. The park was located in Cliffside New Jersey.
The Palisades park Cyclone (1945-1971); originally named the Skyrocket was renamed in 1935 was a wood twister roller coaster designed by herbert Schmeck. The trains were salved for Williams Grove amusement Park in Pennslvania where they renamed their coaster to Cyclone for the Zipper because of these trains.
Palisades Amusement Park, located in Fort Lee, New Jersey hosted The Big Scenic Railway, a wood coaster that operated from 1911-1944. It was Manufactured by Joseph McKee and is considered and early electric powered coaster. With 4,500 feet of track it was purportedly the world's longest roller coaster for its time.
The Figure Eight roller coaster and pool at Palisades Amusement Park in New Jersey. Based on this image this ride was located to the right of the swimming pool.
This postcard shows the second iteration of the Cyclone (1945-1971) at New Jersey's Palisades Park (1899-1971). A Herbert Schmeck design and infamous in it's own right; it differed from the Cyclone (1927-1934) at the park which was a Harry Traver design.
Vying off the 1930 winter olympics sport; Palisades Amusement Park, in Fort Lee, New Jersey, featured a roller coaster called Lake Placid Bobsled which operated from 1937 to 1946. The Flying Turns style roller coaster invented and designed by Norman Bartlett featured a wooden trough as opposed to fixed rails. It was reportedly the most intense version of this coaster design.
This postcard shows Dorney Park's iconic and colorful Alfundo the Clown was above the structure that housed the "Coaster" station (Now Thunderhawk) and Skooter ride.
The Derby Racer (1912-1950) roller coaster at Central Park in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The racing side friction coaster was designed by John Miller and was destroyed by a fire which closed the park.
The Derby Racer (1912-1950) roller coaster at Central Park in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The racing side friction coaster was designed by John Miller and was destroyed by a fire which closed the park.
The Comet (1946-) at Hersheypark (1906-) is a long running and staple attraction. Designed by Herbert Schmeck at 84' tall, 3,300' long this coaster is now surrounded by many more rides.
This post card likely features the Jack Rabbit (1917-1929); a wooden roller coaster at Palace Playland, Maine; which was replaced by the Cyclone roller coaster in 1938.
This post card likely features the Jack Rabbit (1917-1929); a wooden roller coaster at Palace Playland, Maine; which was replaced by the Cyclone roller coaster in 1938.
Outside of Steeplechase Park in Coney Island there were other like rides tucked into lesser known parks. Here at Seaside Park (1902-1915) in Old Orchard Beach Maine we see Pecks Prancing Ponies. This park operated separtely likely just North West from Palace Playland.
Hold on to your hats!! This post card likely features another view of the Jack Rabbit (1917-1929); a wooden roller coaster at Palace Playland, Maine; which was replaced by the Cyclone roller coaster in 1938.
The Cyclone (1930-1948) was at Palace Playland at Old Orchard Beach Maine. It was a PTC attraction designed by Herbnert Schmeck.
The Cyclone (1930-1948) was at Palace Playland at Old Orchard Beach Maine. It was a PTC attraction designed by Herbnert Schmeck.
Arnold's Park, located in Iowa, is one of the oldest amusement parks in the U.S. Designed by John Miller and built by Philadelphia Tobboggam Coasters and possibly going by other names; The Legend (as it's known today) has been around since about 1930 and of this writing still operates. At a height of only 63', with it's curving first drop, it still provides a thrilling experience.
Arnold's Park, located in Iowa, is currently one of the oldest amusement parks in the U.S. Pippin Coaster (1920's) may have also been known as the Big Roller Coaster.
Riverview Park in Des Moines, Iowa, featured an earlier coaster (possibly) the Jack Rabbit operated 1915-1919; before being repalced by the "Roller Coaster" in 1920; which served as one of the park’s premier opening-year attractions.
Riverview Park in Des Moines, Iowa, featured a legendary wooden roller coaster (known simply as The Coaster). Operating for 58 years from 1920 to 1978, the 68-foot-tall ride was designed by famed coaster architects John Miller and Harry Baker.
Joyland was a famous amusement park in Wichita, Kansas, that operated from 1949 to 2004. It was one of the largest and longest-running mid-century family amusement parks in the central region, featuring classic vintage attractions a log flume called Log Jam, and the iconic "Whacky Shack" dark ride. The "Roller Coaster" was designed by legendary builders Herbert Schmeck and John Allen, featuring vintage trains with a single stationary lap bar and no seatbelts.
The Matterhorn Bobsleds opened at Disneyland in June 1959. It is famous as the world’s first tubular steel continuous-track roller coaster and the debut of the iconic "E-Ticket". Designed by Walt Disney Imagineering and Arrow Development, the 147-foot-tall artificial mountain sits between Fantasyland and Tomorrowland.
The Matterhorn Bobsleds opened at Disneyland in June 1959. It is famous as the world’s first tubular steel continuous-track roller coaster and the debut of the iconic "E-Ticket". Designed by Walt Disney Imagineering and Arrow Development, the 147-foot-tall artificial mountain sits between Fantasyland and Tomorrowland.
The Matterhorn Bobsleds opened at Disneyland in June 1959. It is famous as the world’s first tubular steel continuous-track roller coaster and the debut of the iconic "E-Ticket". Designed by Walt Disney Imagineering and Arrow Development, the 147-foot-tall artificial mountain sits between Fantasyland and Tomorrowland.
The Cyclone at Crystal Beach has been long considered the most thrilling and extreme coastesr of all time. One of three built by Harry Traver, it featured extreme drops, sharp turns and near-90-degree banking. It is said that the ride often caused riders to black out and that a nurse was regularly on standby for exiting guests. Today the park grounds are largely occupied by a residential neighborhood. Parts of the Cyclone structure were used to build the Comet. I can never not apprecaite any postcard image of this ride.
The Cyclone at Crystal Beach has been long considered the most thrilling and extreme coastesr of all time. One of three built by Harry Traver, it featured extreme drops, sharp turns and near-90-degree banking. It is said that the ride often caused riders to black out and that a nurse was regularly on standby for exiting guests. Today the park grounds are largely occupied by a residential neighborhood. Parts of the Cyclone structure were used to build the Comet.
The Cyclone at Crystal Beach has been long considered the most thrilling and extreme coastesr of all time. One of three built by Harry Traver, it featured extreme drops, sharp turns and near-90-degree banking. It is said that the ride often caused riders to black out and that a nurse was regularly on standby for exiting guests. Today the park grounds are largely occupied by a residential neighborhood. Parts of the Cyclone structure were used to build the Comet.
This vintage postcard depicts the Backety-Back Scenic Railway (1909-1926) at the former Crystal Beach Park (1888-1989) in Ontario, Canada. It featured an innovative track system that allowed cars to go up an incline and then reverse back down a parallel, lower track. Today the park grounds are largely occupied by a residential neighborhood.
Coming soon
The "Comet" was a famous wooden roller coaster originally built in 1947 at Crystal Beach Park in Ontario, Canada. A Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters (PTC) design by Herbert Paul Schmeck, featuring a double out-and-back layout with airtime hills. Thoough Crystal Beach Closed in 1989; the Comet was saved, dismantled, and rebuilt as The Comet at Six Flags Great Escape in Queensbury, New York, where it still operates today, celebrated for its classic design and airtime hills.
Opposing view of The "Comet" was a famous wooden roller coaster originally built in 1947 at Crystal Beach Park in Ontario, Canada. A Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters (PTC) design by Herbert Paul Schmeck, featuring a double out-and-back layout with airtime hills. Thoough Crystal Beach Closed in 1989; the Comet was saved, dismantled, and rebuilt as The Comet at Six Flags Great Escape in Queensbury, New York, where it still operates today, celebrated for its classic design and airtime hills.
A more contemporary and defunct attraction was The Mindbender at West Edmonton Mall's Galaxyland. It stood 145 feet tall with nearly 4,200 feet of track, holding the record as the world's tallest indoor roller coaster for over three decades (1985-2023). Overshadowed by it's thrills the ride had an accident in 1986, caused by wheel assembly on the fourth car of the train to detach during the final loop. The accident caused both injuries and casualties. The historic trains were sold to Indiana Beach to operate on their All American Triple Loop
The Flying Turns (1935-1967) at Chicago’s Riverview Park was a legendary wooden bobsled coaster. It was uniquely characterized by a trackless wooden trough that allowed free-wheeling ride cars to navigate banked curves like a real olympic bobsled. The ride was designed by John Miller and Norman Bartlett for the 1933-1934 Century of Progress World’s Fair in Chicago then relocated to Riverview.
Designed by Fred Church and built by the Prior and Church company, the Bobs was (for many years) the revered thrilling attraction in the Chicago area. The wooden coaster featured non-stop action with twisting drops, heavily banked turns along it's 3,200 feet of track. A milder variation of this coaster... the "Raging Wolf Bobs" (1988-2007) was built at Geauga Lake in Ohio.
Riverview Park was a beloved Chicago amusement park that operated from its opening on July 2, 1904, until its closure on October 3, 1967. Known for its slogan "Laugh Your Troubles Away," it was a major destination for generations of Chicagoans. During it's existence, the park played host to many roller coasters. It resided on 74 acres at the intersection of Clyburn, Western and Belmont Avenues in the Roscoe Village neighborhood.
Originally debuting at Riverview Park as the Pippin in 1937, this ride was rebranded to the Silver Streak in 1938 following an accident; the moderately thrilling Silver Flash was rebranded the Flash in 1962 until the parks closing in 1967. This ride was located near the main entrance of the park at Western Avenue.
Originally opening as the Sky Rocket (1923-1935), Riverview Park;s the Blue Streak (1936-1958) was reimagined into the Fireball (1959-1967) was designed by John Miller; The ride was known for it's thrilling double down first drop which was removed in 1959 and repalced with a hill that went into an underground tunnel.
Opryland USA was a beloved Nashville theme park, open from 1972 to 1997, blending country music shows with family-friendly rides and attractions like the Grizzly River Rampage, but closed for other business reasons and eventually replaced by the Opry Mills Mall. The park played host to Six roller coasters at the time of it's closing. Some rides like the Screamin' Delta Demon; an Intamin Bobsled, was lost in the closure
On a side note, I personally tried to convince Six Flags Over Georgia management to acquire the Chaos (a Vekoma illusion) roller coaster as an all weather, high capacity, family attraction.. at which I failed.
Opyland's Wabash Cannonall (1975-1997) was an Arrow corkscrew model roller coaster that was considered to be a park staple. Though the ride was acquired/stored at another park it was never ressurected.
Opyland's Hangman (1995-1997) roller coaster was a standard Vekoma roller coaster featured five inversions and was a common design found at theme parks during this era. The ride was sold/relocated to Six Flags Discovery Kingdom and renamed Kong.
Opyland's Rock N' Roller Coaster (1972-1997) was originally called the Timber Topper; an Arrow Mine Train that at 2300' long and a top speed of 45mph was relocated to Six Flags Great Escape as Canyon Blaster.
The Glissade roller coaster, which was a steel sit-down roller coaster at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Located in the park's Oktoberfest section; was manufactured by Schwarzkopf and was a Jumbo Jet model. It operated at the park from 1976 until 1985.
The "Scenic Spiral Wheel" (1917-1920) was a unique roller coaster installed in Coney Island's Luna Park. featuring a giant steel wheel with track spiraling around its rim and using the train's weight to tilt and gyrate the whole structure. Visitors were more intrigued with the visual spectacle over the ride experience itself. I believe this coaster stood in what is currently a green feild North of Luna Playground behind the subway tracks in the housing community.
The Red Devil Rider (1907-1923) was an electric scenic railway powered by a third rail. The ride was replaced by the Thunderbolt around W. 16th street and the Bowery.
Opened in 1901 at West 10th Street, Coney Island; the Loop the Loop (1901-1910) stood west of where the Cyclone resides today (nearer the boardwalk). It was replaced by the Giant Racer; this space of was eventually taken over by the Coney Island Cyclone in 1927.
Opened in 1901 at West 10th Street, Coney Island; the Loop the Loop (1901-1910) stood west of where the Cyclone resides today (nearer the boardwalk). It was replaced by the Giant Racer; this space of was eventually taken over by the Coney Island Cyclone in 1927.
Opened in 1901 at West 10th Street, Coney Island; the Loop the Loop (1901-1910) stood west of where the Cyclone resides today (nearer the boardwalk). It was replaced by the Giant Racer; this space of was eventually taken over by the Coney Island Cyclone in 1927.
The Giant Racer (1911-1926) existed in Coney Island New York on the site where the Cyclone now resides. It was a twin / racing coaster built of wood and steel. History shows the Giant Racer was only appx. only 900' long I'm thinking the image is somewhat exaggerted or I am yet unable to verify its proper length.
The Cyclone at Coney Island New York (is near and dear to my heart - that's a fact). This image likely reflects opening year at 15c a ride (about $3.50 today) images was around 1937. Built on a site previously occupied by the Giant Racer (1911–1926); the Cyclone was designed by engineer Vernon Keenan and built by Harry C. Baker. The Cyclone reaches a maximum speed of 60 miles per hour, a track length of 2,640', and features a maximum height of 85 feet. In 1972 the ride was endangered, but with the help of Astroland was eventually saved. For a short time in the 1980s, the classic wooden coaster would run its trains in reverse as BackFire (another fact, I rode it too). The Cyclone was desginated as a NYC landmark in 1998.
The Cyclone at Coney Island New York (is near and dear to my heart - that's a fact). This image was taken before 1962; as a sign says wonderland park; which was before Astroland opened on this same spot. Built on a site previously occupied by the Giant Racer (1911–1926); the Cyclone was designed by engineer Vernon Keenan and built by Harry C. Baker. The Cyclone reaches a maximum speed of 60 miles per hour, a track length of 2,640', and features a maximum height of 85 feet. In 1972 the ride was endangered, but with the help of Astroland was eventually saved. For a short time in the 1980s, the classic wooden coaster would run its trains in reverse as BackFire (another fact, I rode it too). The Cyclone was desginated as a NYC landmark in 1998.
A more "contemporary" historic attraction is Dueling Dragons (1999-2017) featured two seprate interlocking and dueling roller coasters with many near miss moments. Each track was known as "Fire or Ice" when it opened. Fire consisted of five inversions where as Ice featured four. Both custom tracks were built by Bollinger & Mabillard. This site is currently occupied by Hagrid's Magical Motorbike Adventure.
A variation of the classic wild mouse design, this Arrow Dynamics designed Mad Mouse opened up at Valleyfair park in 1999. There were four rides of this model ever built. At 50' tall, it had 1200' of track and featured sharply backed turns.
The Orient Express was a significant steel roller coaster at Worlds of Fun in Kansas City, running from 1980 to 2003. The ride featured two Interlocking Loops and a Batwing inversion. The ride was once located behind where the spinning Dragons Ride is today.
Miracle Strip Amusement Park (1963-2004) exisited in Panama City Beach, Florida. Notable for its out and back wooden coaster, the Starliner (also 1963-2004); a featuring a below grade tunnel and dropping turnaround. Park had other popular attractions such as the Ferris Wheel, Abominable Snowman, Dante's Inferno and Haunted Castle. This image is likely from 1973 as the Galaxi Coaster is also visible.
Idora Park in Oakland, CA, was a popular trolley park (1903-1929) that started as a picnic spot, an amusement ride destination, a zoo, and an opera house. It hosted several coasters in it's time including the Scenic Railway (1906-1921). The L.A. Thompson Scenic Railway refers to a popular type of early roller coaster, pioneered by LaMarcus Thompson, featuring gravity-powered cars on a track with undilating hills. Footage of this park from 1915 can be found in the film Mabel's Wilful Way.
The Race Thru the Clouds (1911-1923), designed by John Miller and built by Prior & Church this was Venice Beach's first major roller coaster. It was a massive wooden twin-track racing coaster on the pier and the first racing coaster on the west coast. Said top be 4,000' long It was located on Main Street where the canal system once still existed.
The "Scenic Railroad" (1910-1919) was located at the Abbot Kinney Pier at Ocean Front Walk in Venice, California, was built by LaMarcus Adna Thompson. The pier was located at the end of Windward Avenue and extended out over the Ocean. The coaster featured faux mountains and animals to recreate the feeling of an excursion.
Residing at Belmont Park in California and Designed by Frank Prior and Frederick Church the Giant Dipper (1925); aka the Earthquake (1976?). It was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1987; the ride still stood idle until 1990 when is was ressurected by the efforts of historians. Today the neighborhood is a poplar destination for tourists and locals. If ever in the area, take a moment to appreciate that this ride has survived through 100 years, three fires, (one in 1955 and two in 1981). disrepair, abandonment and near demolition. Or better yet ride into history on it's 2600' of undilating track.
The Montaña Rusa (1964-2019) was a revered wooden roller coaster at La Feria Chapultepec Mágico in Mexico City, Mexico. Built in 1964 by International Amusement Devices. For several years, Montaña Rusa held the record of world's tallest roller coaster and operated until 2019.Technically, the coaster has a continuous track of 8,000 feet. Montaña Rusa is one of only a handful of such coasters in the world.
The Montaña Rusa (1964-2019) was a revered wooden roller coaster at La Feria Chapultepec Mágico in Mexico City, Mexico. Built in 1964 by International Amusement Devices. For several years, Montaña Rusa held the record of world's tallest roller coaster.Technically, the coaster has a continuous track of 8,000 feet. Montaña Rusa is one of only a handful of such coasters in the world. As ofd 2024 the park is named Aztlán Parque Urbano.
A rare historical image of the Grand Strand Amusement Park in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina showing the Swamp Fox Roller Coaster from the air. The park originally opened in 1966. The 1970s and 1980s were a primary period of operation under the Grand Strand name. The park was purchased by the Ammons family in 1991, restored, and reopened in June 1992 under a new name: Family Kingdom Amusement Park. Family Kingdom continues to operate on the original site today.
This vague image is a vintage postcard view of probably the "Figure 8" roller coaster station and structure at an amusement park in Rock Island, Illinois. The park, often referred to as White City, opened in May 1905. (per an AI search result)
Not much is know about the Great Boller Coaster in Belleville, NJ. But here is a postcard showing it's existence; seemingly a traditional figure eight.. stay tuned for more information.
This image is a vintage postcard depicting the Lick's Dome Pier and amusement park in Ocean Park, California, around the early 20th century. The short lived wooden roller coaster visible in this image is likely the 75' tall Zip roller coaster which operated in the early 1920's was designed by John A. Miller.
This 1915 vintage postcard depicts the Scenic Railway roller coaster at Joyland Amusement Park in Oak Park, Sacramento, California. Shown here is the figure eight roller coaster, a very popular design for this era. The site now goes by McClatchy Park, a public park space.
Pictured here is The Flyer (1957-1989) roller coaster in Wildwood, NJ. Designed by John Allen the ride featured a double out-and-back layout and was known for its good airtime for a mid-sized coaster. This ride was a signature attraction at Hunt's Pier along the boardwalk at the end of East Poplar and Juniper Avenues. Below are classic mid-century images of the area in general.
The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a classic oceanfront amusement park in Santa Cruz, California, known for its historic rides, arcades, and a wide sandy beach. Shown in this postcard is the Giant Dipper (1924); built by Arthur Loof (known for his carousels) and designed by Prior and Church. In 1987 the ride was granted a National Historic Landmark status.
The Great Boller Coaster (appx. 1906) was a Side Friction Figure Eight roller coaster at Hillside Pleasure Park in Belleville, NJ that operated from 1904 to 1927. The site was was appx. bound by where Floyd Street, Washington Avenue at Greylock Parkway are today.
The swimming pool at Steeplechase Park was known as the "World's Largest Swimming Pool" when it opened in 1909. Pictured on the right is the Limit roller coaster (1920's), a gravity driven attraction was located appx at West 19th street and the Boardwalk.
Designed by John Pierce, The Rattler at Six Flags Fiesta Texas opened in 1992 as the world's tallest, fastest, and steepest wooden coaster. Built on a quarry wall, the Ratller was known for plunging riders off a quarry wall and through a rock tunnel. It was appx. 184' tall, about 5,000' in length and reached speeds of 65 mph. It was eventually converted into a smoother hybrid roller coaster and renamed The Iron Rattler in 2013.
This is a vintage postcard of the Indiana Beach amusement park in Monticello, Indiana, likely from around the 1970s. Shown is the Galaxi (1971-2013) roller coaster an SDC designed ride situated on "Galaxy Pier". The image also shows the Shafer Queen a classic pleasure Riverboat that plies the water of Lake Shafer during the summer.
Kings Dominion in Virginia at one time hosted a Galaxi (1975-1983) coaster. A standard SDC model it stood in the Candy Apple Grove area of the park. It was the first coaster to operate at the park.
The Vortex at Kings Island designed by Arrow Dynamics revolutionized coasters when it opened in 1987. It held records as the first roller coaster with six inversions (two vertical loops, a double corscrew and a boomerang. At 148' tall it is was the the tallest full-circuit coaster in the world. The Vortex closed in 2019 and was located between the Beast and Racer at the end of Coney Mall.
On a personal note: I was on the first train out, my first "coaster event". I came for Vortex, I left with the Beast in a place in my heart.
At over 7,000' long, The Beast at Kings Island in Mason, Ohio, is a legendary wooden terrain roller coaster that opened in 1979. It features a 540 degree helix and three speedy tunnels. Individual seat dividers, headrests, individual lap bars, and personal seat belts were retrofitted into the trains during the mid-to-late 1990s to improve safety standards. I enjoy this older postcard as it is prior to the rerofits.
I am partial as I expereinced the pre-aleration era.
The Ultra Twister (1990-2005) at Six Flags Astroworld was relocated from Six Flags Great Adventure. It featured a vertical lift, a daring 85 degree first drop and three Heartline Rolls. Designed by Togo only handful of these rides existed but mostly in Japan.
This image captures a moment at the now-closed Bertrand Island Amusement Park on Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey. The Wildcat designed by Herbert Schmeck was an out and back coaster which operated from 1925-1983. The park operated from the 1920s until its closure in 1983.
This image captures a moment at the now-closed Bertrand Island Amusement Park on Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey. The Wildcat designed by Herbert Schmeck was an out and back coaster which operated from 1925-1983. The park operated from the 1920s until its closure in 1983.
This image is a postcard from the early 1950s showing the Sunnyside Amusement Park in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Designed by John Miller the Flyer roller coaster operated from 1922-1955. The park was appx where the Gardiner Expressway and Lakeshore Blvd are today. The Outdoor pool and Palais Royale are some of the remnants left over from the park.
Although the history of this particular Flyer roller (1953-1992) was more recent, the Fairgrounds date back to the 1870's. The Flyer designed by Joseph McKee was 2,600' long and resided appx 100 Yards West of where the Stanley Barracks are still today. This image shows the Western side of the coaster
Although the history of this particular Flyer roller (1953-1992) was more recent, the Fairgrounds date back to the 1870's. The Flyer designed by Joseph McKee was 2,600' long and resided appx 100 Yards West of where the Stanley Barracks are still today. This image shows the Eastern side of the coaster.
The Tornado (1970-1984) operated at Petticoat Junction Amusement Park (1963-1984) in Panama City Beach Florida. The coaster first operated at Wedgewood Village Amusement Park (1958-1968) in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The coaster was built in 1961 by designer John C. Allen and the Philadelphia Toboggan Company. After the parks closure the Tornado was scrapped, completely demolished and replaced by a shopping center. The park was located appx at on the Northwest Corner of Hwy 30 and Middle Beach Road.
This vintage postcard image depicts the Carowinds shortly after its opening in the 1970s, featuring the iconic defunct, Skyride, Monorail Riverboat rides on the Carolina Lagoon. The Carolina Gold Rusher (1973) mine train coaster was designed by Arrow Dynamics. It is notable for being the first coaster in the U.S. to cross a state line (NC/SC).
The White Lightnin' (1977-1988) roller coaster was a Shwarzkopf shuttle coaster. At 140' tall abd travelling 57 mph; it was known for its powerful launch, vertical loop, and backward run through the track, using a unique weight-drop launch system. The ride was relocated to Gold Reef City in South Africa.
The photo shows the Figure Eight (1916-1924) side friction wooden roller coaster, which was a staple attraction in early 20th-century amusement parks. Lakeside Park (1895-1941) was later known as Enna Jettick park. Today Emerson Park (a public space) resides on the former lot. Some structures from the old park still are noticeable.
The Amusement Area from Liberty Lake at the 1939 New York World's Fair. The attraction on the right was called the Cyclone (1939-1940); a Harry C, Baker designed ride. The ride was relocated at to Riverside Park in Agawam, MA and renamed the Thunderbolt. The partial ride seen on thr extreme left is likey "The Bobsled" designed by Norman Bartlett and reclocated to Coney Island.
The Dip (1904-1914) operated at Glen Echo Park Maryland, a side friction coaster. Many coasters (most notably the Coaster Dips) operated at the park over the years until it's closure in 1968. In 1971 the property became a part of the National Park Service. Many building/structures still reside from the park; a historical marker also resides at the location today.
First opening as the Million Dollar Pier in 1911, the renamed the Pickering Pier in 1919, then original Ocean Pier (1926–1956); Pacific Ocean Park (POP) lasted until 1967 in Santa Monica, California. Originally the High Boy (1925-1957), the Sea Serpent roller coaster (1958-1967) was designed by John Miller. Serpent is a part of California Beachside lore. Numerous fires, plagued the pier which stood abandoned before it was demolished in 1974. The park was located on the beach near the current day Rose Avenue parking lot. Many TV shows filmed moments at the park.
This P.O.P postcard features the Midway leading to the Serpent Coaster.
This P.O.P postcard shows mid-century theming on the Midway leading to the Serpent Coaster.
This P.O.P postcard features the "Ocean Skyway" attraction next to the Serpent Coaster.
The High Boy (1925-1957) roller coaster at Ocean Park Pier before being renamed the Serpent. In foucs, this Helter Skelter slide is seemingly a very thrilling attraction. I found an original photo with a similar view; the scale seems frighteningly accurate.
This is a vintage postcard featuring the "The Dips" roller coaster at Exposition Park in San Antonio, Texas. The site generally referred to as San Antonio Exposition Park today is now known as the Hemisfair district and may have been the location for this attractions.
During the early 20th century, Exposition Park in San Antonio served as a major local amusement hub. "The Dips" was a side-friction or shallow-track wooden roller coaster famed for its sudden drops and exciting figure-eight style layouts, a design shared by similar era coasters of the era; today it is mostly remembered through rare, collectible vintage color lithograph postcards from (1907–1915).
A National Amusement Device attraction was designed by Vernon Keenan; the Atom Smasher (1938-1985) roller coaster was 70' tall and had 3,000' of track. It was situated between Beach 97th and Beach 98th Streets, near the boardwalk. Rockaway's Playland. Today, houses sit on this lot of land.
A National Amusement Device attraction was designed by Vernon Keenan; the Atom Smasher (1938-1985) roller coaster was 70' tall and had 3,000' of track. It was situated between Beach 97th and Beach 98th Streets, near the boardwalk. Rockaway's Playland. Today, houses sit on this lot of land.
At Rockaway's Playland, a National Amusement Device roller coaster was designed by Vernon Keenan; the Atom Smasher (1938-1985) roller coaster was 70' tall and had 3,000' of track. It was situated between Beach 97th and Beach 98th Streets, near the boardwalk. Today, houses sit on this lot of land. Yet another historic view of which I was privvy to in person; I think it was my #3 roller coaster.
This vintage postcard captures a view of the pier from possibly the Zip (1925-1964) roller coaster at Steeplechase Park in Coney Island, New York. The Zip was one of two gravity rides (the other being The Limit). The only structure still standing today that was once part of Steeplechase Park is the historic Parachute Jump. Today, the space is occupied by MCU Park Stadium.
Thunderbolt (1925-1982) was designed by John A Miller and had a 90' first drop. The ride was most later known as the House Under The Roller Coaster which was formerly the Kensington Hotel (1895-1925). This image shows the area as seen from W. 16th street in Coney Island New York. The coaster's entrance was on Bowery street which connected to W. 15th to W. 16th street at the time. This view is looking South toward the Ocean on W. 16th street; shows a "Childrens Paradise" to the right of the Thunderbolt.
Personal note: The Thunderbolt's closure was the spark that started my hobby!! It was the first roller coaster I ever rode, the second was the Wild Mouse on W. 15th street; both of which I rode around 1979/1981 (maybe).
A vintage postcard of Idora Park in Youngstown, Ohio, from around the 1910s. Likely shown here The Figure Eight (1902-1919) preceded more famous attractions prior to closing in 1984 following a devastating fire. As of this writing, there's nothing remaining on the site but a crumbling parking lot and old midway paths found near East Park Drive.
In this image shows a Chutes ride and seemingly the turn for the Loop the Loop roller coaster is seen on the right at Olentangy Park (1880-1939) in Columbus, Ohio. W. Kelso Road and Neil Avenue completely subdivides the entire park property west of High Street. Retail and housing now occupies the old park site.
Luna Park located in Mansfield, OH featured a Figure Eight (1905-1920) roller coaster; which was a common, early type roller coaster. The park was located at the intersection of Elmwood Drive and park drive. After tons of research it seems the park entrance was on the outside of the sharp turn on Elmwood Drive.
Touring the Alps (1909-1922) was a popular wooden scenic railway and early roller coaster at Edgewood Park (previously Indian Park) in Shamokin, Pennsylvania. Though the park operated from 1900-1959 a storm destroyed this roller coaster in 1922. The park was located apppx where Clinton Avenue, Jackson Street and Stetler drive is located today; no historical marker is present.
The Scenic Railway (1909-1922) roller coaster operated at the former Edgewood Park in Shamokin, Pennsylvania; this ride was also known as Touring The Alps. My assumption is the tunnel featured mountain-like scenery. The park was located apppx where Clinton Avenue, Jackson Street and Stetler drive is located today; no historical marker is present.
This image features the Figure Eight (1095-1912) roller coaster was located at Stanton Park in Steubenville, Ohio. The park was located at the interchange connecting state Route 7 to U.S. Route 22 likely where the Steubenville Park and ride exists today and East toward the River.
This postcard depicts the Figure Eight Roller Coaster at Woodland Beach Park; situated on the shores of Lake Erie in Ashtabula, Ohio. The park was likely located appx where Lakeshore Park Parking Lot and Lakeshore Drive resides today.
This image is a vintage postcard showing the Krug Park amusement park in Omaha, Nebraska, circa the early 1900s. The wooden structure in the background is likely the Figure Eight Toboggan (1903-1917) roller coaster. The park was located in Omaha Nebraska likely where Gallagher Park (Noth 52nd street and Maple) is today.
This rare postcard from Kennywood Park Pittsburgh, PA shows the Speed-O-Plane (1911-1923) roller coaster hugging the edge of the Athletic Feilds. Today, the site where the Speed-O-Plane once stood is occupied by the Lost Kennywood section today.
The Lightning Racer (1913-1923) was a historic twin-track wooden racing roller coaster that was built on the beach and operated on the waterfront of Redondo Beach, California. The coaster featured two parallel 3,000-foot tracks (6,000 feet total). The ride was likely located on the sands just outside of where Vererans Park resides today.
From approximately 1905 to the late 1920s, Hyde Park was an entertainment hub developed by the Muskogee Electric Traction Company. The Roller Coaster operated from 1908-1922. The amusement park faced several natural disasters which destroyed much of the remaining structures. Most of the original park land has since been acquired by the Port of Muskogee for industrial use.
Located at Jack and Jill Amusement Park in Fort Wayne, Indiana, the Allan Herschell Monster Mouse thilled guests during the 1960's and 1970's. The Amusement Park was situated on Coliseum Blvd in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
The Looping Star a Pinfari Zyklon model with a vertical loop was built in 1996 at Jolly Roger at the Pier in Ocean City Maryland. Ther ride stands 36 feet tall, measures 1,197.5 feet in length long and features a single 31.8-foot vertical loop.
Jack Rabbit (1919-2002) was a roller coaster at Clementon Park in Clementon, New Jersey. A John Miller designed ride that stood 50' tall with a length of 1,380'. Make note of the rings in front of each seat for guests to hold to during the ride. Another favorite feature of this postacrd are three people riding together near the back of the train.
The Figure Eight (1904-1933) was a side friction roller coaster at Celoron Park on Chautauqua Lake, New York. This ride was typical of this era and duplicated many times. It appears the park was located at 40 Dunham Ave of West Lake Street in Jamestown, NY. The marker that once celebrated this location is no longer present.
This view shows a 1907 view of the second Electric Park which featured attractions such as roller coasters and the prominent Mystic Chute attraction. The plaza East Luxury Apts reside on this land today. The first park Electric Park (1899-1906) was located appx where Martin ave and North Chestnut Avenues are today; which is occupied by a playground "Heim's Electric Park".
Sacandaga Park (1888-1926)was a trolley park resort area in upstate New York before the valley was flooded to create the Great Sacandaga Lake in the late 1920s. Pictured is the Dip the Dips roller coaster. There is a historical maker at McKinley Avenue and Hwy 152. Much of the land that was Sacandaga Park now lies underneath the waters of the reservoir.
White City (1902-1910) was a popular trolley park near Binghamton, New York. Pictured here is a side friction coaster (1902-1910); likely a figure eight (popular at the time). The park appears to have been located appx on Riverside Drive and Shelby Street, where Davis (Bible) College stood most recently. The college was founded in 1900 in Binghampton, NY then moved to the former park site.
The Giant Safety Coaster (1908-1922) operated at Forest Park (1908-1922) in Chicago. At the time, this ride was advertised as the largest and most elaborate coaster in the United States. Destroyed by fire, the park was formerly located where the Van Buren Street Transit Center resides today.
The Steeplechase (1909-1912) operated at Forest Park (1908-1922) in Chicago. This image shows an alternate view of the Ginat Safety Coaster and the Chutes attraction. Destroyed by fire, the park was formerly located where the Van Buren Street Transit Center resides today.
Electric Park featured numerous attractions, including 24 rides, a large boat lake, vaudeville shows, and band concerts. The coaster shown was possibly The Scenic Railway (1907). the Second Park was located at E 46th street and the Paseo.
Electric Park featured numerous attractions, including 24 rides, a large boat lake, vaudeville shows, and band concerts. The coaster shown was possibly The Tickler (1907). The park was located appx where Martin ave and North Chestnut Avenues are today.
The first postcard to inspire my entire collection (found at a paper/postcard show in 1992). Originally known as Electric Park around 1909, it was a popular amusement spot featuring electric lights and electrically-powered amusement rides. Located where Schifferdecker Park is today' the land was donated to the city of Joplin in 1913. The amusement park featured the Dazy Dazer and Lover's Tub (Figure 8 roller coasters), which were later demolished in 1916 due to safety concerns.
Thank you for time travelling, learning and discovering with me
