One Of The Last Operating Wooden Carousels In The Nation Is Not Far From Cleveland
By Nikki Rhoades|Published June 01, 2019
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
Have you ever treated yourself to a staycation? This is something of a vacation-oriented state of mind that allows you to spend your days adventuring like a tourist, yet still retire in the comfort of your own home. Staycations feature a variety of day trips and weekend trips that are fairly close to home, and Clevelanders are fortunate in that they have many to choose from. One destination where you can never go wrong is actually located just off of Lake Erie’s southern shore, and it’s a true island getaway right here in Ohio.
There's no summertime destination quite like South Bass Island.
South Bass Island is hiding in western Lake Erie in Ottawa County. The island is only 3.7 miles long; a tiny expanse that visitors traverse via golf carts.
Located just three miles away from Ohio's northern shore, this island is easily accessible and full of surprises.
The Allan Herschell Company was known for its quality wooden carousels - structures that were produced from 1915 to 1970. Herschell, however, had been producing carousels since the founding of the Armitage Herschell Company in 1873.
The carousel was purchased in the 1980s and has entertained and delighted visitors ever since. It was in a state of disrepair, so the Stoibers breathed new life into it, adding an old-fashioned feel to Delaware Avenue.
Stoiber found that only 12 of the original 36 animals remained, so he and his wife, June, replaced and hand-painted new animals to complete the carousel.
Some of these new additions permanently tie the carousel with the island's history. A five-foot-long Lake Erie perch, affectionately known as "Petey the Perch," adds local flavor to the fixture of fun.
To take a ride, you will have to visit the adjacent Carriage House.
This charming gift shop offers a variety of must-have souvenirs, but before you shop you'll want to pick up carousel tickets. You can find pricing information here.
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Nostalgia abounds at this charming historic structure on Lake Erie's loveliest island.
There’s so much charm and history alive on South Bass Island. Have you ever visited this incredible carousel?
Did you enjoy that dose of nostalgia? If you’re still craving a trip through time, you’ll adore these photos of long-gone Cleveland destinations while adding these fun trips to your list.
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