The carousel was built by Charles Dare in New York City in 1876.
It is designated as a National Historic Landmark.
The horses are mounted on a platform that moves via a central cable-driven mechanism rather than a gear-driven one.
The leather saddles and glass eyes on the horses are original to the 19th-century construction.
The brass ring tradition is a nod to its original purpose as a game of skill, where successful riders were awarded tokens.
The Flying Horses Carousel is the oldest operating platform-style carousel in the United States, dating back to 1876. Originally located in Coney Island, it was moved to Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard, in 1884. The ride features 20 hand-carved wooden horses with real horsehair manes and tails, as well as glass eyes. It is currently owned and maintained by the Vineyard Preservation Trust. The mechanism remains an authentic antique, utilizing a belt-driven system instead of modern electric gears. Riders can attempt to grab a brass ring to earn a free ride. The carousel is housed within an open-air red barn structure at the center of the Oak Bluffs harbor district.
Stand near the entrance gate to capture the motion of the horses against the painted ceiling and wooden architecture.
Focus on grabbing the brass ring specifically, as the iron rings do not grant a free ride.
Visit during the shoulder seasons to avoid the longest queues of the peak summer months.
Do not attempt to touch or lean on the internal machinery; avoid visiting during peak midday ferry arrival times if you prefer shorter lines.
Operates seasonally from mid-spring through early autumn; closed during winter months.
Maintain caution when reaching for the ring to avoid falling or hitting the central mechanism; follow attendant instructions regarding mounting horses.
