Photos, artifacts sought for Looff Carrousel

As part of the 100-year celebration for Spokane’s historic Looff Carrousel, Riverfront Park staff is looking for photos and artifacts of the treasured ride.

The staff is interested in borrowing these items, which will be on display during the celebration.

“I am particularly interested in the Natatorium Park years or the building of the Carrousel building in Riverfront Park,” said Debby Dodson, Riverfront Park assistant manager.

“We are hoping people will lend us items that will help illustrate the history of the Carrousel over these remarkable 100 years.”

To allow the park staff time to prepare the exhibit, we are asking for photos and materials to be made available by Nov. 14. Due to space constraints, please limit the number of items you’re considering loaning.

People who may have something are asked to call or e-mail first so the staff can learn more about it and determine what would work best in the display.

If you may have items for this collection or questions about the Carrousel, call 625-6601 or e-mail ddodson@spokaneriverfrontpark.com

The Looff Carrousel is on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the most beautiful and well preserved hand-carved wooden carrousels still in existence. Spokane’s Looff Carrousel features 54 horses, 1 giraffe, 1 tiger, and 2 Chinese dragon chairs.

The newest addition is Billy Bob, a circa 1890 Charles Looff Ibex goat, which in 2007 joined the Riverfront Park Carrousel. The Carrousel is open daily all year except during annual maintenance which closes the Carrousel for six weeks during January and February.