The CIM’S Year of the Horse

Feb 15

This Lunar New Year is ushering in a period of passion and energy, perfect for a new project — and the CIM is chomping at the bit to get started!

*Left: Carousel, Charles Looff, 1876*

It’s been **150 years since Coney Island’s first carousel opened**. Built by Charles Looff, and installed in 1876 at Vanderveer’s Hotel on Surf Avenue, it introduced visitors to the artistry, wonder, and magic of merry-go-rounds.

Once considered the carousel capital of the world, Coney Island has been home to as many as 24 carousels throughout its long history. Many of the most renowned carvers, including Looff, Carmel, Stein, Goldstein, and Illions plied their trade in the amusement district.

Sadly, many of these grand carousels have been dismantled, their beautiful horses lost to the public, preserved only in private collections.

So when the Carousel Museum of Bristol, CT, offered a carousel horse to the CIM, we weren't about to look a gift (horse) in the mouth!

*Left: Illions inside row jumper, early twentieth*
*century*

Our horse originated in the Coney Island workshop of M.C. Illions, a century ago. At some point in its past, a chemical agent had been used to remove layers of paint, which separated the joints and raised the wood’s grain. It’s also missing legs, a tail, and many of the bright glass jewels that once adorned it.
Still, the ravages of time and mistreatment can’t erase the beauty, grace, and hallmarks of a classic Illions horse — the arched neck, flared nostrils, exaggerated mane, and detailed trappings.
A skilled restorer will make this this horse look as good — if not better — than the day it carried its first rider.

It’s likely that his horse was once part of a traveling, portable merry-go-round; we like to think it’s finally returned home to Coney Island. The CIM is looking forward to the day it can take its place in our gallery, touching the hearts of visitors with the beauty, magic, and nostalgia that only a carousel horse can bring.

With your support, we can get this dark horse to the finish.

PLEASE MAKE A DONATION TODAY!