Geauga
Lake History
1800's
Geauga Lake was originally called Picnic Lake and Giles Pond.
Not sure of the exact dates when the name changes took place.
1888
The Kent House, a 75-room hotel, was built. Became
focal point for the new park.
1889
The park's first ride, a steam-powered
carousel, was added. A roller rink, photo gallery, billiard hall, and
bowling alley soon followed.
1925
New management, under the ownership of
William J. Kuhlman, rebuilt the park. Added the John Miller designed
Skyrocket (Big Dipper), a 2,680 foot long, 65-foot tall wooden
roller coaster. Other amusements were added including the Dodgem,
Tumble Bug, Whip, Hey Dey, an Aerial Swing, auto speedway, and a
carousel. A new swimming pool was added.
1926
Geauga Lake gets national attention as
Johnny Weismuller sets a new world record for the 220-yard freestyle.
Weismuller would eventually become famous as Tarzan.
1937
After surviving the Great Depression,
Geauga Lake adds the historic Marcus Illions carousel.
Originally built for the Philadelphia Sesquicentennial Exposition in
1926, it appeared briefly in Birmingham, Alabama before being placed
in storage prior to being purchased by Geauga Lake. Illions himself
restored the ride before it became operational.
1946
The Aerial Swing is upgraded to the Rocket Ships
from the old airplanes that were on the ride. By this time the
Schreyer family is operating the park. During the 40's the Cuddle Up,
Caterpillar, and Ferris Wheel were added.
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