A vintage wooden carousel
The Carousel of Smiles project is a unique community effort to restore a circa 1920, 40′ diameter, 36 horse Allan Herschell carousel to its former glory, repurpose it with a newfound mission operating in a year-round venue to provide activities supporting the community and arts in North Idaho.
– Creating Memories –
Bringing Smiles and Excitement
to the Young and Young at Heart.
About the Project
The carousel last operated in 1952 at the Kansas State fair in Hutchinson, Kansas, then was abandoned and stored in its two trailers…hibernating. In December 2016, the trailers were unloaded in Sandpoint, Idaho for the first time in 64 years (the Unloading Event), and assembled for the Unveiling Event in December 2017. We have confirmed that all of the pieces are here, the carousel is intact and original, and the restoration on this incredible Golden Age machine has commenced.
The Carousel of Smiles, Ltd, an Idaho registered 501c3 not-for-profit has been established to take custody of the carousel and shepherd its restoration and new life. After restoration — well underway here in Sandpoint with our talented volunteers, the carousel’s new home will be in Sandpoint, operating in a public venue for all to enjoy.
NO Tax payer funds are being used for the restoration, the facility or for the ongoing operation of the carousel and facility.
The Carousel of Smiles — a springboard of ideas, a catalyst for wide-ranging interconnectivity amongst our business community, schools, and artisans; all creating synergy for something everyone can get behind and be part of — a showcase to promote and exemplify our wonderful town.
Volunteers and donors to the cause are invited! Hop on, and join the ride…
The Carousel of Smiles, Ltd
217 Cedar St, #284
Sandpoint, ID 83864
208/699-5778
Slide the circle to see progress
Carousel of Smiles assembled
New Location Rendering
Save The Date!
A fun event for the whole family
The Carousel Fun Fair
Saturday November 23rd – 10:00-4:00
The Carousel will be joined by an ever growing group of other North Idaho Not-for-Profits. This event is fully open to the public with no charge, and is a great opportunity to visit with and understand all of the great work and services our regional not for profits provide. There will be exhibits, fun activities & more.
The Carousel unveiling will be at 11:00am.
Details are in the works, so SAVE THE DATE!
Latest Videos
Imagine The Magic – The Full Story
The Unveiling Event – Dec 16, 2017
The Unloading Event – Dec 3, 2016
Time Lapse Assembly – Dec 16, 2017
The Journey Continues – June 6, 2017
Upcoming Events
There are currently no events scheduled. Please check back soon.
Hop on & Join The Ride
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Support The Carousel of Smiles
This is a community supported project.
We gladly accept all forms of financial support, large and small.
Checks, Credit Card, Appreciated Assets – it all works!
Donate Online:
with Credit Card / Pay Pal
Donate by Check:
The Carousel of Smiles, Ltd
217 Cedar St, #284
Sandpoint, ID 83864
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