The Eli Bridge Ferris Wheel is a very common ride at fairs and carnivals, yet it is often absent from major amusement parks due to their inefficient operation, which results in low capacity. However, when installed, they provide atmosphere that is crucial to the charm of any park. Here in Western PA, we are lucky enough to have two nice wheels at Conneaut Lake Park and Idlewild. Although Idlewild's ride is much bigger, they both provide a fun experience (though I haven't ridden Conneaut Lake's yet).
Eli Bridge has manufactured many different versions of the ride in many different sizes over the years. The first Eli Wheel was installed in 1900, and the company still makes them to this day!
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| This picture shows the cable-drive system on Idlewild's wheel. This format has been replaced with motorized tires on many newer rides. |
2 comments:
120 years is a darn good run for any company these days!
Yes, probably one of if not the only ride company still around from that long ago.
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