The Lake Winnepesaukah Carousel

Some say it is in Tennessee, some say Georgia, but sadly not many have visited Lake Winnepesaukah amusement park. The park has its mailing address in Chattanooga, Tennessee, but actually thrills visitors in the small town of Rossville, Georgia. Lake Winnie has a classic ride lineup that lines the lake. There are many unique rides here, including one of the only old mill rides with a chute, the only Eyerly Fly-o-Plane in the United States, a classic John Allen out and back wooden coaster and many others. But, one of the park's jewels is Philadelphia Toboggan Company carousel number 39. Lake Winnie is laid out like a large U with the lake in the middle. The carousel is located on a small island at the bottom left corner of the park.

This carousel began its life at Lakewood Park in Atlanta, Georgia [Note: This was also known as the Southwestern Fairgrounds]. The ride was carved in 1916 and placed in the park one year later. There is little information about this park, but it did have a roller coaster called the Greyhound. After the park closed in Atlanta, the owners of Lake Winnie purchased the carousel and moved it to Rossville. Today the carousel anchors the wooded corner of the park. It complements the park perfectly and serves as a reminder of when the carousel was considered a thrill ride.

The four-row machine is a beautiful ride. Gorgeous panels of European rural scenes line the inside of the carousel. My favorite painting was of one woman holding a basket of flowers, painted so she is not looking at the viewer. There are some beautiful horses on the Lake Winnie carousel, I believe carved by John Zalar. There are lots of horses carved in action here, many running through fields or rearing back and up with furrowed manes. The only disappointing attribute was the fact that I did not hear the ride's organ, merely four speakers attached to a tape player. Philadelphia Toboggan Company carousel number 39 is still an enjoyable step into the past, especially during those hot Georgia summers when a the breeze from the ride is a refreshing break from the day.


The white lights and intricate carvings make for a beautiful work of art.	My favorite panel on the machine.	The P.T.C. carousel has unique wheels and a beautiful swan.

The carousel is situated on an island at the back of the park.	The outside rim has very nice lit shields and murals.	Looking back past the drum from an inside jumper.