Carousels are vanishing from the American Landscape. I think they have succumbed to the same fate as clowns. Both tied to an earlier phenomenon when animation and fantasies were contained in the real world...not a computer screen. Just a guess on my part but the sight of Carousels to the children of pre- silicon valley were a sight to behold. A fantasy world where you could ride a wild stallion even if you were an immigrant living in the Bronx. Carousels such as this are in Central Park and still being rode today...but only as a trip though the past.

Carousels were always painted in the brightest colors and the combination of the wild steeds ranged from realistic to unicorns pulling carriages. The carriages were always a favorite of Summer Lovers...both old and young alike.

Today, young adults visit these types of landscapes on World of Warcraft or Second Life. No need to escape to the park...just turn on the power and begin typing.

I enjoy cyberspace...but it does not compare to the chance to grab the brass ring as you spin on the carousel while the calliope plays. Children today don't miss what they don't have ...just like us who"Don't know what you've got till it's gone"...Joni Mitchell.