Photo by L. Walkins

Who can resist the glittering lights, flashing mirrors and beckoning music of a merry-go-round?  For me, climbing into the saddle of a lavishly painted carousel horse always transports me on a nostalgic journey back to the simple pleasures of childhood.  For the past several years, while on vacation, I have tracked down a carousel to ride (and photograph) whenever possible.  I have ridden them in New York, Chicago and even Paris, France.  I have found merry-go-rounds populated by animals on the endangered species list or animated sea creatures.  The most unusual carousel I have come across in the my travels was a double-decker carousel at Wildwood in New Jersey.  One of my favorite carousels is located in Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh, Scotland (the same one my character Darcy Seton rides in Forget-Me-Not).

Photo by L. Walkins

It is interesting to note that the cheerful carousel that enchants Darcy Seton can trace its origins back to the jousting tournaments most likely attended by her ancestor, Mary, maid of honor to Mary, Queen of Scots.  The word carousel comes from the Italian carosello which means “little war.”  In medieval times, knights competed in a game requiring them to catch a ring suspended from a tree branch with their spear.  As part of their training, the knights used a rotating practice machine equipped with model horses and chariots suspended by chains from a center pole.  Through the centuries, this practical machine evolved into the popular amusement park or fairground attraction of today.

Photo by L. Walkins

From 1880 to 1930, the carousel enjoyed a golden age in America.  During that time, master carvers created magnificent hand-carved and decoratively painted wooden animals.  Today, they are considered treasured works of art, an important part of Americana.  Fewer than 150 of these classic carousels remain in operation.  The two oldest American carousels date back to 1876.  Located in Westerly, Rhode Island and in Oak Bluffs, MA on the island Martha’s Vineyard, they are both flying horse carousels.  The horses are not attached to the floor of the carousel housing.  Instead, they are suspended by chains and fly out as the ride revolves.

Photo by L. Walkins

My state, Massachusetts, is home to seven additional antique carousels.  I think I’ll have to plan a road trip this summer to continue my quest.  In addition to riding some of these local carousels, I may also  drive down to Bristol, Connecticut to visit the New England Carousel Museum.   Undoubtedly, a merry time will be had by all!