The Allan Herschell Company produced more than 3,000 carousels during its operating history.
The 1916 carousel in the museum is one of the few remaining examples of a #1 Special, originally designed for traveling carnivals.
The site retains the original factory 'men's washroom' graffiti, which has been preserved as a historical artifact.
The museum houses a significant collection of Wurlitzer band organs, which provided the music for early carousels.
In 1985, the factory was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The museum features a rare 1940s Kiddie Auto Ride, which mimics the design of early automobile travel.
The Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum is housed in the original 1915 manufacturing plant of the Allan Herschell Company, a leading producer of amusement rides in the early 20th century. Located in North Tonawanda, New York, the museum preserves the history of the carousel industry through authentic factory machinery, hand-carved wooden horses, and archive blueprints. Visitors can ride two fully operational, restored carousels, including a 1916 #1 Special and a children’s carousel. The facility functions as a living history exhibit where woodcarvers and painters demonstrate traditional carousel craftsmanship. It serves as a repository for the region's industrial heritage, specifically the transition from steam to electric-powered amusement devices. The museum complex includes the original factory offices and specialized workshop spaces used for shaping carousel figures. Rotating exhibits display vintage artifacts from various amusement parks across the United States.
The center of the 1916 carousel platform while it is stationary for a clear view of the Wurlitzer organ.
Check the schedule for live woodcarving demonstrations before arriving to see artisans at work.
Prioritize time to watch the 'How a Carousel Works' demonstration for context on the mechanical restoration.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe footwear as the factory floors are original wood and may have uneven surfaces.
Attempting to climb onto antique display horses not designated for public riding.
Closed on Mondays during the off-season; check official calendar for winter schedule adjustments.
Refrain from touching the hand-carved horses on display; only ride the designated operational carousels.
