From about 1914 to the
1930s, the Sea Swing was a popular attraction at Cedar Point. The ride was
located in the water of Lake Erie, about 100 feet from the bathhouse along the
Cedar Point beach. It operated in a fashion similar to a Merry Go Round, but
being shaped like hexagon, the riders dipped into the water as the swing went
around, instead of going in a direct circular motion. The Sea Swing was powered
by electricity.
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| An earlier apparatus in the water at Cedar Point, date unknown |
An article which appeared
in the August 6, 1914 issue of the Sandusky Register reported that with fees
collected from riders the Sea Swing would “pay for itself” in just one or two
seasons. As you can see in the photograph below, the Cedar Point beach was
quite popular.
A member of the Andres family donated this family
vacation picture to the Sandusky Library Archives Research Center. Could the youngsters be thinking about riding the Sea Swing?
It’s easy to see why it may not have remained longer, aside from decay. It’s likely swimmers got too close and were clobbered by swingers. It’s a shame though because this contraption looks like fun.
ReplyDeleteIt’s easy to see why it may not have remained longer, aside from decay. It’s likely swimmers got too close and were clobbered by swingers. It’s a shame though because this contraption looks like fun.
ReplyDelete