Carousels are probably one of the most recognized rides around. Most everyone has ridden on a carousel at least once, but no matter how many you’ve been on, a visit to the Dentzel Carousel in Meridian, MS is a must. And that’s because it’s no ordinary carousel. Take a look:

This is the Dentzel Carousel. It’s been a part of Meridian’s Highland Park since 1909.

Visit Mississippi/Flickr It was purchased by the city in 1909 for $2,000. Today, it’s valued at more than a million dollars!

Much more than a source of enjoyment, it’s a part of our nation’s history – and that’s because the carousel is extremely rare.

Nadine B/TripAdvisor It’s “the only remaining two-row stationary Dentzel menagerie in the world.”

The carousel was manufactured in 1896 by the Dentzel Factory in Pennsylvania for the 1904 St. Louis Exposition.

Glen S/TripAdvisor The factory opened in 1860 and remained in business until the Great Depression. While in operation, the factory manufactured just 2 – 3 carousels a year.

But it’s not just the carousel that’s unique. The structure that houses the carousel is just as special because it’s the “only remaining original carousel building built from a Dentzel blueprint.”

Nadine B/TripAdvisor

The carousel’s significance hasn’t gone unnoticed. In October 1986, the Department of the Interior designated the carousel and its house National Historic Landmarks.

Nadine B/TripAdvisor Only 11 other carousels nationwide have received this honor, with Meridian’s being the only one located in the South!

Meridian’s carousel, just like all of Dentzel’s carousels, features animals that were hand-carved as well as original oil paintings. A true work-of-art, the carousel is a must-see for all ages.

Julie Rhonemus/Google

The best part is that visiting this national treasure won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Rides are just 50ȼ and tours are just $1. You can even book parties at the carousel.

Glen S/TripAdvisor To book a party, schedule a tour, or get more information, call or stop by the Parks and Recreation office at Highland Park.

Visit the carousel at Highland Park, which is located at 1720 Jimmie Rogers Memorial Dr., Meridian, MS 39307. For more information, call (601) 485-1802 or visit the city of Meridian’s website.

Visit Mississippi/Flickr

It was purchased by the city in 1909 for $2,000. Today, it’s valued at more than a million dollars!

Nadine B/TripAdvisor

It’s “the only remaining two-row stationary Dentzel menagerie in the world.”

Glen S/TripAdvisor

The factory opened in 1860 and remained in business until the Great Depression. While in operation, the factory manufactured just 2 – 3 carousels a year.

Only 11 other carousels nationwide have received this honor, with Meridian’s being the only one located in the South!

Julie Rhonemus/Google

To book a party, schedule a tour, or get more information, call or stop by the Parks and Recreation office at Highland Park.

The carousel is open:

  • Saturday Only: November – March, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Saturday and Sunday: August – October, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.; April – May, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Daily: June – July, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

 

So, ever been to Highland Park? Did you ride the carousel? Tell us in the comments section.

This isn’t the only place for kids and kids at heart! Click here to read about another.

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