Watching the Golden Gate Park Carousel in San Francisco, CA

This example of exquisite craftsmanship was originally carved and produced by a North Tonawanda, New York company, Herschell-Spillman in 1912.

At first, the carousal was powered by steam, but PG&E loaned an electric motor to the park. The carousel led a well-traveled life, appearing as one of the main sights at the 1939 World’s Fair on Treasure Island, and also decorating several public arenas about the West Coast.

The illustrious, original carousel showcased 62 animal figures, decorative benches, alluring picture panels, and even an organ. The Herschell-Spillman creation enjoyed a long, continuous run until 1977 when a mechanism failed to work. Dubbed mechanically deficient, as well as lagging in its original visual appeal, the original carousel was sent to a restoration team for repair.

Paint was removed and the surfaces received a facelift, as missing parts were carved anew. The animals received a proper paint job, utilizing a radiant palette of colors. A German band organ was also installed in the carousel, which fills the air with an audio kaleidoscope of pleasure. The reopening of the revamped carousel took place in 1984 and was well received by the public. Today, many come from near and far just to experience a whirl on the historic Golden Gate Park carousel.