The Parsons Merry-Go-Round (1891-1895)

While I enjoyed every aspect of Idlewild that I included in my book, one of the most compelling, challenging and fascinating subjects I researched was the history of merry-go-rounds and carousels at the park. This is the second in a series of blog posts that I hope will create a comprehensive history of this beloved…

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Idlewild’s Earliest Merry-Go-Rounds

While I enjoyed every aspect of Idlewild that I included in my book, one of the most compelling, challenging and fascinating subjects I researched was the history of merry-go-rounds and carousels at the park. This is the first in a series of blog posts that I hope will create a comprehensive history of this beloved…

On This Day in Idlewild History: Frontier Safariland Opens

In 1965 the Idlewild Management Company decided to resurrect the zoo concept that had faded away during the World War II years. Featuring a collection of North American wild animals and a domestic petting zoo, Frontier Safariland debuted to the public on May 23, 1965 at the start of Idlewild Park's new season. It was built…

Idlewild’s Opening Day

Today, Saturday, May 19, 2018, marks the official opening day for Idlewild and SoakZone's 141st season! Although the park has already hosted some events this year and the once-separate Story Book Forest used to open the first weekend in May, traditionally Memorial Day weekend marked the formal opening of the park each year, back to…

Idlewild: The Right and Privilege for 140 years

Happy Birthday, Idlewild and SoakZone! Today marks the 140th anniversary of Pennsylvania's oldest amusement park. On May 1, 1878, William Darlington penned another letter to Judge Thomas Mellon settling terms for the Ligonier Valley Rail Road to lease part of a scenic Ligonier Township estate for "picnic purposes or pleasure grounds."   Dear Sir: In compliance with…

A Deal with Darlington

This is the first in a series of "behind the book" posts I'll be publishing periodically to highlight my research behind Idlewild: History and Memories of Pennsylvania's Oldest Amusement Park. I'll also be sharing photos that didn't make the book and digging deeper into Idlewild's history. Enjoy! Spring has finally arrived in Western Pennsylvania. Trees are…

Idlewild: History and Memories of Pennsylvania’s Oldest Amusement Park – Available Now!

I’m thrilled to announce that my most recent book, Idlewild: History and Memories of Pennsylvania’s Oldest Amusement Park is now available from The History Press! Idlewild is available at local stores and Idlewild Park gift shops, as well as through online outlets, including Arcadia Publishing/The History Press, Barnes and Noble and Amazon. I'll also have copies available during…

Seeking Stories & Photos for New Idlewild Park Book!

The next year is going to be pretty busy! I'm pleased to announce that I have started working on my second book for The History Press, which will tell the story of Idlewild Park, Pennsylvania's oldest amusement park! I need your help! I'm seeking never-before-heard stories and rare photographs from past and present visitors, employees…

“When the Whistle Blows, Come Home,” by Jim Ramsey

“When the Whistle Blows, Come Home” The Sounds of My Home Town: Ligonier, Pennsylvania Valley Voices - August 2013 Written by Jim Ramsey Transcribed and edited by Jennifer Sopko Pictures courtesy of the Pennsylvania Room, Ligonier Valley Library I was born and grew to adulthood in my home town of Ligonier, Pennsylvania. Many of my…

Along the Lincoln Highway with American Songline: Leg #3 –Stoystown Back to Greensburg

I’m gearing up for an upcoming trip back along the Lincoln Highway to Bedford, Pennsylvania, but before I do that, I should get us back to home base first… After American Songline’s Cece Otto and I reached our final destination in Stoystown, Pennsylvania during our mini road trip this past spring, we turned around and…