A National Historic Landmark, the Kit Carson County Carousel in Burlington is one of the oldest merry-go-rounds in the nation. Out of the nearly 4,000 carved between 1885 and the 1930s, fewer than 150 still exist . This one, built in 1905, is one of the finest survivors. And you can still ride it!
The Kit Carson County Carousel is the only antique carousel with a working Wurlitzer Monster Military Band Organ, and the only one with original paint on the scenery panels and animals. The 46 hand-carved wooden animals twirl to the tunes of the restored 1912 organ against an elaborate background of oil paintings, gilt trim, mirrors and lights.
The story of this menagerie is an apt metaphor of the carousel’s history that whirled around through strife and renewal. It was created as the sixth of 74 carousels produced by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company. Its first home was at Denver’s Elitch Gardens, and was later sold to Kit Carson County in 1928. At the time, the $1,200 purchase of the carousel and the organ was a hotly contested issue in the county, as it was seen as an unnecessary extravagance by many townspeople.
Soon afterward, the Depression hit and the carousel stopped. It was stored and forgotten for decades, until a group of preservationists initiated efforts to revive the historical gem. The restoration began in 1976 and took 25 years to complete.
Today the lion, giraffe, deer, zebra, horses and other animals strut proudly in their rebuilt home, located on the Kit Carson County Fairgrounds at 815 15th St. The carousel runs Memorial Day to Labor Day 1-8pm. For just 25 cents you get a tour and a ride.
The carousel tops off the unique "Our Journey" self-guided tour of Colorado’s central plains. Delving into railroad, homesteader and Prohibition-Era history, the route visits the most fascinating historical attractions in Elbert, Lincoln, Cheyenne and Kit Carson County.
Did You Know?
When this carousel was built in 1905, it was one of the country’s fastest. It clocked in at 12 miles per hour—a noticeable difference from the standard 8 miles per hour of other carousels of that time.
Good To Know Before You Go:
Opened on Memorial Day of 2006, Kit Carson County and the Kit Carson County Carousel Association sponsored a museum honoring the history and restoration of the carousel. It’s a great way to bring even more excitement and interest to the unique state treasure.
ADA Accessibility:
Viewing the carousel is easily accessible for those with disabilities. Ask for assistance before riding the carousel.
Kit Carson County Fairgrounds, Burlington, CO 80807
www.kitcarsoncountycarousel.com
www.burlingtoncolo.com
www.ourjourney.info
800-825-0208
Hours of operation:
Open Memorial Day to Labor Day 11 am–6 pm
This project is partially funded by a State Historical Fund grant award from the Colorado Historical Society.
Colorado's Historic Sites
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