A summer spent in Rhode Island wouldn’t be complete without a few things – leisurely days lounging on the beach, a tall glass of Del’s Lemonade to keep us cool, and a stop by the Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round. Beloved as the oldest carousel in Rhode Island and the United States, the old-fashioned merry-go-round boasts a fascinating backstory of how it came here.

A visit to Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round & Beach in Westerly means an obligatory stop at the carousel. Although only kids can now ride the famous merry-go-round, standing back and watching it go round and round just goes hand-in-hand with a Rhode Island summer.
Google/Philip Doherty
While just about everyone knows about this beloved Rhode Island landmark, its backstory might not be as familiar. No one knows for sure; however, the merry-go-round is believed to have been built in New York City.
Google/Michael Brennen
The carousel was made by Andrew Christian and the Charles W.F. Dare Co., and it was a popular attraction with a traveling carnival that came to Westerly during the summer of 1883.
Google/Penny L. Tracy
The traveling carnival came to Westerly and left – but the merry-go-round remained behind. Why? No one really knows.
Trip Advisor/MichaelO1421KO

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Known as the Watch Hill Flying Horse Carousel, the merry-go-round is unique in another way. Each of the horses is suspended by chains rather than by the traditional poles. It’s said to be the only carousel of its kind still in existence.
Facebook/Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round and Beach
The merry-go-round was originally operated by workers manually turning cranks before horses pulled it around. After it ran on the power of water, it eventually converted to electricity in 1914.
Kiddos who ride the merry-go-round can ride on the inside or, if they want a chance to grab the brass ring, on the outside. The rider who gets the brass ring usually wins a free ride.
Facebook/Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round and Beach
Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round and the beach are open seasonally, usually from late May through early September.
Facebook/Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round and Beach
Learn more on the Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round & Beach website. Or, stop by its Facebook page.
Trip Advisor/KLATAMPA

Did you know the story of the Watch Hill Carousel in Rhode Island? Let us know in the comments! If you like your history with a side of the paranormal, check into the oldest and most haunted hotel in Rhode Island.

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Featured Addresses
Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round and Beach, LLC, 151 - 153 Bay St, Westerly, RI 02891, USA