C.W.Parker Carousel Museum

320 S Esplanade Street
Leavenworth, KS 66048

913-682-1331

Our History

In 1892 Parker bought a used Armitage/Herschell track machine and operated it until 1894 when he built his own track machine and started the C.W. Parker factory in Abilene, KS.  

Parker went from track machine to the jumping carousels, from steam to electric. The carving on the horses began to get more fanciful through the years as he continued to grow.  By 1905 Parker had four full-sized carnivals on tour throughout the country.  

In 1911 Parker began moving to a new much larger factory he was building in Leavenworth.   This is where he built hundreds of small traveling carousels that were used by carnivals worldwide.  He also built five large, extravagant "park" machines, designed to be permanently installed in large amusement parks.  Only one of those five is still in existence in Jantzen Beach Mall, Portland Oregon.

Learn all about C.W. Parker and more a the C.W. Parker Carousel Museum and Gift Shop.

Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors.
Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide

AARP Events for Leavenworth

View All AARP Events

image of two AARP membership cards
Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal
  • Immediate access to your member benefits
  • Discounts on travel and everyday savings
  • Subscription to AARP The Magazine
  • FREE second membership
Join AARP
Already a member? Renew or Print Card

Contact AARP
Kansas