About The Oldest Ride In America
This historic carousel is the oldest ride of any kind in America
A ride is a mechanical device or structure designed to entertain guests by providing a thrilling or enjoyable experience. Rides can range from gentle attractions, like carousels and Ferris wheels, to high-adrenaline experiences like roller coasters and drop towers. They often feature specific themes, visual effects, and varying levels of intensity to engage visitors of all ages.
The Flying Horse Carousel in Watch Hill, Westerly, Rhode Island, is the oldest ride of any kind in America. Originally built in 1876 as part of a traveling carnival operated by Charles W. Dare Company, it has been in continuous use in Westerly, RI since 1883. The ride is now a significant piece of American amusement history.
It is described as the oldest continuously operating carousel in the United States by Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round And Beach. It is recognized as the only continuously operating and surviving flying horse Merry-Go-Round in the country by The Historical Marker Database. It is defined as the oldest carousel extant in the United States today by the U.S. National Park Service.
The carousel was built in 1876 by the Charles W. Dare Company of New York. Initially part of a traveling carnival, the carousel was left in Watch Hill in 1883. The exact reason for its abandonment remains unclear, but it has become a permanent fixture in the area ever since.
Unlike traditional carousels where horses are typically mounted on poles, these horses are suspended from chains, giving them a flying motion as the carousel spins, hence the name "Flying Horse Carousel".
The carousel features 20 hand-carved horses, with the bodies believed to have been carved from single blocks of wood, and the legs carved separately and attached. The craftsmanship reflects the artistic styles of the 19th century, showcasing intricate details and vivid colors.
The Flying Horse Carousel was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980 and declared a National Historic Landmark in 1987, acknowledging its historical and cultural significance.
This treasure has survived disasters for over 135 years including the 1938 Hurricane’s devastating affects on Watch Hill, Rhode Island. Originally powered by a horse walking in a circle, the carousel transitioned to water power in 1897 and was electrified around 1914. It has continued to operate with electricity, maintaining its charm and functionality through the years.
The carousel has become a cherished summer tradition in Watch Hill, delighting generations of children and visitors with its unique ride experience where riders can attempt to grab brass rings for a chance at a free ride.
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Over the years, the carousel has undergone several restorations to maintain its historic integrity. Volunteers and caretakers have been instrumental in its preservation, storing and repairing the original horses during off-seasons.
The ride operates seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, offering a nostalgic ride experience at a modest price, with different rates for outside and inside horses. This carousel not only represents a piece of amusement history but also embodies the spirit of community preservation in Watch Hill, making it a beloved landmark and attraction
*Note: This Flying Horse Carousel should not be confused with Martha’s Vineyard’s Flying Horses Carousel which has been in continuous use since 1884. Both were manufactured by the Charles W. F. Dare Company in presumably 1876. However The Flying Horse Carousel in Watch Hill, Rhode Island was most likely built earlier according to the U.S. National Park Service. In addition, it has been in continuous use one year earlier (since 1883) than Martha’s Vineyard’s Flying Horses Carousel, securing the title as America's oldest ride of any kind.