The museum is housed in a building listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
It preserves the legacy of the 'Golden Age of Carousels,' spanning roughly 1880 to 1930.
The onsite workshop uses traditional tools and techniques to maintain the integrity of historic carvings.
The collection includes rare 'jumpers'—horses designed to move up and down on the carousel pole.
The museum functions as a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of folk art.
Many of the figures on display are carved from poplar or basswood, woods chosen for their durability and lack of grain interference.
The institution hosts educational programs specifically focused on the engineering mechanics of organ-driven carousels.
The Merry-Go-Round Museum is located in the historic 1939 Sandusky Post Office building. It preserves the history and artistry of carousels through a collection of antique wooden figures and carousel mechanisms. The museum features an active woodcarving workshop where visitors can observe the creation and restoration of carousel horses. A functional, indoor carousel allows visitors to experience riding a restored antique machine. The facility serves as a research center dedicated to the documentation of carousel manufacturing history. Exhibits showcase various carving styles, including those from prominent companies like Dentzel, Illions, and Herschell-Spillman. The museum rotates its collection to display different regional styles of craftsmanship throughout the year.
The restored carousel in the center of the exhibit hall.
Check the workshop schedule upon arrival to see if a woodcarver is currently demonstrating restoration techniques.
Plan your visit to coincide with the operation of the indoor carousel, which typically runs on a set cycle.
Photography is generally encouraged, so bring a camera to capture the intricate detail of the paintwork.
Do not touch the antique carvings, as the oils from human skin can damage the historic paint and wood surfaces.
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays; operates on a seasonal schedule with reduced days in the winter months.
