1915 Herschell Spillman carousel reopens at Ovid Hazen Wells Park in Clarksburg
This article was created by AI summarizing key points discussed. AI makes mistakes, so for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Please report any errors so we can fix them. Report an error »
A fully restored 1915 Herschell Spillman carousel reopened at Ovid Hazen Wells Recreational Park in Clarksburg on May 16, 2024, drawing long lines and positive reactions from visitors.
Montgomery Parks announced in 2024 that the century-old carousel would be moved to Ovid Hazen following a restoration. The carousel had been on display on the National Mall for 14 years before being donated to the park in 1981 and loaned to Wheaton Regional in 1983, where it remained for more than four decades.
Park officials and event narration said the restoration work replaced decayed wood and other parts to ensure the carousel’s longevity. The ride features 30 figures, including horses and zebras, and includes accessible seating. Ten original historic figures from the 1915 carousel were renovated and placed on the outer ring, the segment reports.
The park opening emphasized accessibility and family use: staff directed visitors to an on-site height chart, and the carousel’s accessible seating was highlighted as a feature intended to broaden who can enjoy the attraction. Organizers also showcased other park improvements, including a new skate park designed with skateboarders’ input and a playground built into the landscape.
Speakers at the event — as recorded in the broadcast narration — credited the Wells family for the land donation and described state funding and work by Montgomery Parks and the local council in bringing the restoration and installation to completion. Attendees responded enthusiastically at the opening.
The carousel’s first public day at Ovid Hazen Wells drew long lines on May 16, 2024. The park continues to operate under the terms described when the land was donated, including maintaining green, child-friendly space and housing a carousel.
In Clarksburg, I'm Mike Springerth reporting.
Montgomery Parks announced in 2024 that the century-old carousel would be moved to Ovid Hazen following a restoration. The carousel had been on display on the National Mall for 14 years before being donated to the park in 1981 and loaned to Wheaton Regional in 1983, where it remained for more than four decades.
Park officials and event narration said the restoration work replaced decayed wood and other parts to ensure the carousel’s longevity. The ride features 30 figures, including horses and zebras, and includes accessible seating. Ten original historic figures from the 1915 carousel were renovated and placed on the outer ring, the segment reports.
The park opening emphasized accessibility and family use: staff directed visitors to an on-site height chart, and the carousel’s accessible seating was highlighted as a feature intended to broaden who can enjoy the attraction. Organizers also showcased other park improvements, including a new skate park designed with skateboarders’ input and a playground built into the landscape.
Speakers at the event — as recorded in the broadcast narration — credited the Wells family for the land donation and described state funding and work by Montgomery Parks and the local council in bringing the restoration and installation to completion. Attendees responded enthusiastically at the opening.
The carousel’s first public day at Ovid Hazen Wells drew long lines on May 16, 2024. The park continues to operate under the terms described when the land was donated, including maintaining green, child-friendly space and housing a carousel.
In Clarksburg, I'm Mike Springerth reporting.
Don't Miss a Word: See the Full Meeting!
Go beyond summaries. Unlock every video, transcript, and key insight with a Founder Membership.
✓
Get instant access to full meeting videos
✓
Search and clip any phrase from complete transcripts
✓
Receive AI-powered summaries & custom alerts
✓
Enjoy lifetime, unrestricted access to government data
30-day money-back guarantee
