Sep 19, 2016 | Historical Articles, Roller Coaster History
New coupling for roller coasters Frederick Church patented a new type of roller coaster train with articulated couplings and flanged wheels in the 1920’s. The cars were two-seaters and reminded the riders of a bobsled operation. Connections were made by coupling...
Jun 8, 2016 | Historical Articles, Roller Coaster History
STORY: B. Derek Shaw, contributing writer for Amusement Today ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Dorney Park opened for its 133rd season April 30 with several new additions to enhance the guest experience. New Executive Chef Malo Jones has developed innovative and unique dining...
Jun 8, 2015 | Historical Articles, Roller Coaster History
Fairs in Kansas, Minnesota celebrate their Mills in 2015 STORY: Pam Sherborn, staff writer for Amusement Today HUTCHINSON, Kansas. — In the mid-1970s, a high school student attending the Kansas State Fair decided it would be fun to pour laundry detergent into the...
Mar 8, 2015 | Historical Articles, Roller Coaster History
Six Flags Over Texas ARLINGTON, Texas — In 1980 Six Flags Over Texas was winding down its second decade of operation. The park had become a phenomenal success for the tourism of the Dallas/Ft. Worth area and was a catalyst for what would become one of the largest...
Dec 7, 2014 | Historical Articles, Roller Coaster History
Postcard showing a Thompson Switchback Railway in California in 1887. Courtesy B. Derek Shaw collection First Roller Coaster The oldest roller coasters descended from the so-called “Russian Mountains,”. These were specially constructed hills of ice located...
Nov 10, 2012 | Historical Articles, Roller Coaster History
Loop coasters were more popular than imagined in the early 1900s. When most people think of roller coasters, they picture them in amusement parks. However, documentation of permanent roller coasters at fairs and exhibitions goes all the way back to at least October...
