A bit of history

Since the Stewart Park carousel has been around since 1951, it has a long history.  Before Monty and Ellie May took over operating the carousel in the early 1980's, it had fallen into a pretty bad state of disrepair and was actually condemned and slated for removal from the park.  The Mays completely refurbished it, including new mechanics and a new awning, and that is also when they hired Annie Campbell to paint it.  Before she painted it, they completely stripped the horses down to their bare aluminum in big dip tanks, and then baked on a good solid coat of primer.  For the most part, that primer is still intact (which makes our job a lot easier).

Polly Joan, local photographer and all-around wonderful lady, sent me a photo she took of one of the horses before Annie painted it.  Check out the morning glories!

(You can find more of Polly's photos on her website, and also look for her at the Ithaca Farmers' Market!)

-Christi