C.W. Parker Carousel Museum

Charles Wallace Parker started traveling carnivals in the midwest and was expanding rapidly. His carousels began to evolve through several style changes. He went from the track machines to the jumping carousels, from steam to electric. The carving on the horses began to get more fanciful. The Parker "Carry-Us-Alls" (his play on words for carousel) continued to be the most important part of the amusement business. He built hundreds of small traveling carousels and also built five large extravagant "park" machines, designed to be permanently installed in large amusement parks. The museum, located in Leavenworth, Kansas, features carousel horses and parts, and three complete carousels from 1850-1950. The museum and carousels are open on the weekends for all ages to enjoy. The venue can also be rented out for parties.