Five generations have cared for the Paragon Carousel and visited this treasure to experience the joy, to preserve memories, and to appreciate the artistry of a magical place on Nantasket Beach.

Our vintage 1928 carousel has been recognized as a tourism jewel on the state’s South Shore by the Massachusetts Cultural Council and named the “Best Historic Carousel” in New England by Yankee Magazine. It is a living museum whose horses, chariots, and scalloped canopy were created and carved by the greatest artisans of any age. These master carvers and sculptors came to America to escape persecution and poverty in Germany and Italy. Three thousand hand carved carousels were built from 1870-1930, the Golden Age of Carousels, and fewer than 150 operate in the world today. Only 19 truly vintage Philadelphia Toboggan Company carousels remain intact, in their original state, and operate today. The National Carousel Association has recently awarded an historic designation to Hull’s carousel.

Across the world, carousels were lost to fires, auctions, and amusement park closings. Individual horses were sold off to collectors. PTC #85 exists today because people cared. The passionate dedication of many people has made the 95th birthday possible. During the past 25 years, people have cared and supported the work of the Friends of the Paragon Carousel, a volunteer group that strives to continue to restore and preserve this piece of the American landscape.

Come celebrate with us on Saturday, July 15! Enjoy a piece of birthday cake and festive activities at 11 a.m., but stay the day. Nonagenarians, or those close to it, will be treated to an ice cream and a ride on the carousel. Come see and hear the magnificent Gavioli Fairground Organ. Built in England in 1897, it is the largest touring antique fairground organ in North America. Restored by American Roger Wiegand, it was dedicated to Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee.

Come meet the new executive team taking care of our beloved carousel: Director Jon Erickson; President Marge West; Vice President Jason McCann; Treasurer Bob Foster; Clerk Chris Lofgren; and Museum Curator Steve Greenberg. They volunteer because they care. We know that this place on Nantasket Beach is more than a merry-go-round. Come join us and celebrate because you care!

Please see the carousel’s website, www.paragoncarousel.com, and Facebook page for a schedule of events.

Do you have an opinion or want to share good wishes for the Friends of the Paragon Carousel? Click here to write a Letter to the Editor.