The Arkansas Carousel: An American Treasure

"[The Carousel] is the only one like in the entire world. I want people to go ride it and realize what the Zoo has, what the City of Little Rock and the state of Arkansas have - a carousel that no one else has in the world. It is a treasure forever." -David Martinous, Friends of the Carousel Director

LITTLE ROCK (September 5, 2024) – The Little Rock Zoo is the proud home of the Arkansas Carousel, Over-the-Jumps, a one-of-a-kind antique carousel that is the only fully operational carousel of its kind in the world. This historic carousel is not just a ride; it's a piece of Americana that has been delighting visitors for generations.

Over- the - Jumps Carousel circa 1924

Constructed by the Spillman Engineering Company of North Tonawanda, New York, during the golden age of carousels (1887-1935), the Over-the-Jumps Carousel made its first Arkansas appearance at the 1924 Arkansas State Fair, held at what is now War Memorial Park. It is the last known “over-the-jumps” carousel in existence, featuring an undulating track that creates a one-of-a-kind riding experience. Unlike standard carousels, where horses are attached to poles that move up and down, the Over-the-Jumps Carousel’s horses are attached to a moving track, creating a unique and memorable ride.

View of the carousel showing the unique undulating motion.

In 1942, Little Rock resident Tom Fuzzell purchased the carousel, saving it from auction. By 1991, the carousel was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. However, its future became uncertain when owners Mokey Choate and Doc O’Kelley decided to sell it, putting its future in Arkansas at risk.

Under the dedicated leadership of David Martinous, Director of Friends of the Carousel, and with the support of then State Senator Mike Kinard, Governor Bill Clinton, and other visionary leaders, Friends of the Carousel was formed to raise the necessary funds to purchase and restore the beloved carousel. Their tireless efforts ensured that this cherished piece of history would be preserved for future generations.

Original Friends of the Carousel Members

Becky Witsell, the first committee chair, played a crucial role in its preservation by overseeing the careful dismantling, inventory, and numbering of the entire carousel. Over the next 16 years, more than $500,000 was raised through the hard work of Friends of the Carousel, the generosity of the Pony Parents—who 'adopted' and named a pony—and numerous other fundraisers and donations. These funds were instrumental in the restoration effort.

Under Becky Witsell's expert guidance, each pony and chariot underwent a meticulous restoration process. Initially, the plan was to simply touch up the existing paint on the ponies, four chariots, and 24 large wooden wheels. However, as the restoration progressed, the discovery of 40 layers of carnival paint transformed the project into a full-scale conservation effort. These layers were carefully removed to reveal and document the original colors and patterns, an essential step in preserving the carousel's historic integrity. Since the original paints wouldn't adequately protect the wood from the elements, Witsell documented the historic colors before repainting each horse with durable outdoor paint, restoring them as they were originally intended, and bringing the carousel back to its original glory.

Zoo Director Susan Altrui receiving the Historic Award for the Over- the -Jumps Carousel, awarded by the National Carousel Association.

After 16 years of dedicated restoration and fundraising, the Friends of the Carousel donated the Over-the-Jumps Carousel to the Little Rock Zoo in October 2007, making the Zoo its permanent home. In 2020, the National Carousel Association honored the Arkansas Carousel with its prestigious Historic Award, recognizing its national significance.

The restoration process continues today. With nearly a million rides over its lifetime, the carousel was due for much-needed care. In 2023, the Little Rock Zoo commissioned the Little Rock Repair Shop to lead a new restoration project focused on the 40 horses and 4 sleighs, with the first phase expected to be completed by the end of 2024. Despite ongoing work, the carousel remains operational, allowing visitors to continue enjoying this iconic attraction.

To learn more about the ongoing restoration, visit the Little Rock Repair Shop’s 2024 Blog series.

Today nearly 1 million riders have enjoyed this historic treasure thanks to the hard work of the Friends of the Carousel.

Join Us for the Centennial Celebration!

As we honor this remarkable milestone, we invite you to be part of a special 100th birthday celebration on September 10th at the Little Rock Zoo. This special event, proudly sponsored by Centennial Bank, will feature the official unveiling and dedication of the Carousel Centennial Plaque, along with historical displays and opportunities to meet the dedicated individuals who have worked tirelessly to preserve this Arkansas treasure.

Mark your calendars and join us for a day of fun and nostalgia as we honor the carousel's incredible history. Thanks to the unwavering efforts of Friends of the Carousel, the generosity of our community, and the dedication of countless contributors, this cherished attraction continues to bring joy to visitors of all ages. Don’t miss this momentous occasion—experience the magic and enduring legacy of the Over-the-Jumps Carousel at the Little Rock Zoo.

Recently restored carousel horse, refurbished by the Little Rock Repair Shop.