A SIGHT TO SEE, SANTA CRUZ, CA–Established in 1907, the Santa Cruz Boardwalk is one the oldest surviving amusement parks in the United States. Among its many eateries and attractions, the “Looff” Carousel is a genuine piece of history. The legend of a merry-go-round has welcomed generations of riders while preserving the craftsmanship of a bygone era.
The Santa Cruz Boardwalk’s “Looff” carousel holds a history that spans over a century–128 years from its creation in 1911. The carousel’s structure was meticulously engraved by the hands of Charles I.D. Looff, a famous craftsman of hand-carved carousels and amusement rides in America. He is credited with making about forty carousels between 1876 and 1916, only about ten of which stand today.
The antique attraction has seen many locations–first installed in Fair Park, Texas in 1895. The wooden structure then was transported to Santa Monica, California in the 1950s, Spanaway, Washington in the 1970s, Portland, Oregon in 1979, and Burbank, California in 1997, San Diego in 2004, and the Santa Cruz Boardwalk in 2007.
The carousel’s music emanates from one of its 3 organs, one being older than the carousel itself–the original 342-pipe Ruth & Sohn organ from 1894. It also houses a Wurlitzer 165 organ from 2007, and a Wurlitzer 146 organ from 2011.
The carousel showcases an array of 40 detailed rideable structures. Looff’s renowned signature style is captured in the horse’s poses, detailed saddle designs, and placements of decorations within the attraction. Brass ring dispenser and target is available for riders to try and hook one on as they spin around the period piece.
The Santa Cruz Boardwalk overall is a classic seaside amusement park. Locals and college students regularly get to experience its many perks. A visit to the Santa Cruz Boardwalk is an invitation to step back in time with Looff’s creation and enjoy the coastal gem.
