About

 
 

George W. Johnson Park Carousel, Endicott

Location: 201 Oak Hill Avenue, Endicott

Installed: 1934

Municipality: Village of Endicott

The George W. Johnson Park Carousel is the newest of Broome County's six historic carousels. It features 36 horses arranged three abreast, two chariots, and its original pavilion.

Located in Endicott's Northside and Little Italy neighborhoods, the carousel is an important part of the village's cultural history and community celebrations.

Restoration and maintenance timeline:

  • 1934: Carousel installed in George W. Johnson Park.

  • 1992: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

  • 1994: The carousel underwent a $192,000 historic restoration by R&F Design of Bristol, Connecticut.

  • May 22, 1994: A 60th anniversary rededication celebrated completion of the restoration.

  • 1999: A $50,000 glass enclosure was added to protect the carousel from weather and vandalism. The project was funded entirely through private contributions.

  • 2024: The carousel celebrated its 90th anniversary.

  • 2026: The carousel was one of two in Broome County reported operational during the regular summer season.

The 1994 restoration was funded through several sources, including federal Community Development Block Grant funding, state historic preservation assistance, village funds, and community fundraising.

Media significance: The George W. Johnson Park Carousel provides a documented example of successful historic preservation through municipal investment, government grants, and private fundraising.