The Shell Factory & Nature Park announced that it is the recipient of a generous gift, an antique carousel, courtesy of a local donor.
The donor, who wishes to remain anonymous, has been a longtime visitor to the Shell Factory and is grateful the family-fun destination could accept the donation and keep the carousel close to home. Located at 16554 N. Cleveland Avenue in Fort Myers, the attraction is now open and operates seven days a week during normal business hours.
Built in the 1920s, the full-size carousel was produced by the C.W. Parker Company. Encompassing a 36-foot diameter, the ride boasts two chariots and 20 painted horses and travels at three miles per hour. For the young and old alike, the three-and-a-half-minute ride is accompanied by calliope music and gives riders the magical experience of taking a stroll down memory lane. The cost to ride the carousel is $1 per person.
A true labor of love, all Shell Factory & Nature Park employees had a hand in helping to restore and repair the carousel prior to assembling it on the property. Much of the time spent painting, sanding and retrofitting was on a volunteer basis.
“We are truly blessed to be the recipient of this generous gift,” said Pam Cronin, owner of the Shell Factory. “I attend the IAAPA show every year and marvel at the spectacular three-story carousel on display. We look forward to sharing the ride with our visitors and the local community for years to come.”
For more information, visit ShellFactory.com. Contact at (239) 995-2141.
