The Daily Bee: Carousel lost in time freed from its stable
After 64 years of dormancy, a nearly century-old carousel is set to be unveiled in Sandpoint, Idaho. The 1920 Allan Herschell Carousel, believed to be hidden in a time capsule, will finally reveal its 36 hand-carved wooden horses, rounding boards, and original artwork. Despite needing restoration, project coordinator Jan Griffitts assures that all the components are intact. The carousel, which spent decades in storage after a Midwest fair closure in 1952, was saved by Clay and Reno Hutchison of Sandpoint 16 years ago. The couple, who hope to establish the carousel, nicknamed “The Carousel of Smiles,” as a permanent fixture in Sandpoint, express excitement about bringing the 96-year-old machine back to life. The rarity of preserved carousels with original components is highlighted by Bette Largent, president of the National Carousel Association. The unveiling is scheduled for 11 a.m. at the Sandpoint Granary on Oak St.
