'The Golden Age of Carousels: How NYC Shaped the Spinning Joyride' Replay

This replay will remain active for one week from the original air date New York Adventure Club | AdventureClub.com

Long before they became icons of childhood joy, carousels were shaped by centuries of global history and artistry. How did a medieval military training tool evolve into one of America’s most cherished amusements, and why does New York City boast more surviving antique carousels than almost any city on Earth? It's time to step into the spinning legacy of the carousel — a ride filled with nostalgia, craftsmanship, and urban storytelling.

Join New York Adventure Club as we explore the unexpected and enchanting history of the carousel — a story of how woodcarvers, immigrants, and city builders helped turn spinning wooden rides into a cultural mainstay, with New York City at the heart of its greatest chapter.

Led by licensed NYC tour guide James Henry, this virtual exploration will include:

• A look at the ancient origins of the carousel, from Middle Eastern cavalry games to early European fairground attractions
• An overview of carousel development in Europe and America, and how they evolved into mechanical wonders of movement, music, and light
• A breakdown of the three major American carving styles — Philadelphia Style, Coney Island Style, and County Fair Style — and how each expressed a different vision of fantasy
• A deep dive into the Golden Age of Carousels (1890s–1920s), when immigrant artisans helped transform carousels into a booming industry and high art form
• An exploration of New York City's pivotal role in carousel culture — from pioneering manufacturers to the surviving masterpieces still operating today
• Profiles of iconic NYC-based carvers and manufacturers, including Charles Carmel, William F. Mangels, Solomon Stein & Harry Goldstein, and M.C. Illions — plus a look at the Jewish carving traditions that influenced carousel and pavilion design

Afterward, we'll have a Q&A session with James — any and all questions are welcomed and encouraged!

Can't make it live? Don't worry, you'll have access to the full replay for one week.

See you there, virtually!

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***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week

****If the event has already passed, but it's been less than a week, you can still register for it on our website's active replay section!

About James

James Henry is a certified NYC tour guide and member of Guides Association of New York City (GANYC). He has worked for a wide range of organizations including Atlas Obscura, The Bowery Boys, Radio City Music Hall and Green-Wood Cemetery. His fascination with carousels grew out of his love for the history of amusement parks and rides in Coney Island, Brooklyn.

Testimonials

"James Henry gave a really interesting talk on carousels and their history. I hadn't realised the diversity of these beautiful creations and how far and wide they are located. I know we have them here in the UK, especially at fairgrounds, but hadn't realised how many different ones there were in the US. The layout of his talk was great with the history at the beginning, the different types of carousels and the look at the various ones and where they're situated. I loved this talk - James kept me engaged throughout and I learned so much I didn't know - thank you!" -Aliki

"The information presented , great pictures and lots of information" -Anthony

"Great images and very interesting history. The presenter was really good-we hope he does more NYAC webinars!" -Karen

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Categories: Virtual, Moments in History, Replay