Jane's Carousel: A Timeless Treasure

Jane's Carousel, a classic 3-row carousel, was created in 1922 by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company. Originally known as PTC #61, it was first installed in Idora Park in Youngstown, Ohio, a prosperous steel-making city at the time. The carousel features 48 intricately carved horses and two chariots, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship often attributed to artists John Zalar and Frank Carretta. When Idora Park closed in 1984, Jane and David Walentas purchased the carousel at auction, preventing its break up. Jane Walentas led an extensive restoration, meticulously scraping away layers of paint to reveal the original 1922 colors and elegant wood carvings. The horses were carefully repainted to match the original designs. In September 2011, Jane's Carousel opened to the public in Brooklyn Bridge Park, housed in a modern glass pavilion designed by Jean Nouvel. The transparent cube provides a year-round home for the carousel, showcasing it against the backdrop of the East River, the Manhattan skyline, and the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges. At night, the pavilion transforms into a magic lantern, with the shadows of the horses dancing on the facades. A ride on Jane's Carousel offers a unique blend of history, art, and stunning views, making it a beloved attraction for visitors of all ages.