Harold Warp Pioneer Village in Minden has largest private collection of Americana in the world, and it’s one of Nebraska’s top historical attractions. But have you ever seen this particularly unusual historical display?
Located at the far end of the central green, the vintage carousel dates all the way back to 1879 when it was manufactured by Armitage Herschell.
Harold Warp Pioneer Village
The steam-powered merry-go-round is the oldest of its kind in the US. Some sources even say it’s the oldest in the world. It has called the Pioneer Village home since 1955.
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No one is sure where the carousel was located originally, but we do know that it was located in Pontiac, IL from 1905-1955.
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The carousel still offers rides for just 5 cents. There is no set schedule for when it will be operating. If you’re visiting with the hope of taking a ride, call ahead to see if the carousel will be running during your visit.
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Stepping on board is like taking a little step back in time. The brightly-colored animals include 17 horses, a giraffe, a zebra, two goats, an elk, a deer, a tiger, and a camel. There are also two chariots for those who’d prefer not to sit atop an animal.
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The Pioneer Village website says that the engineer may even let you blow the whistle when you ride! Visit the site for more information about visiting, including opening hours and admission costs.
Harold Warp Pioneer Village
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Harold Warp Pioneer Village is one of those places that everyone in Nebraska should visit at least once. Want to see more? Check out our Ultimate Nebraska Bucket List.
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