Historic seaside heights carousel reopens after extensive restoration

Historic Seaside Heights Carousel Reopens After Extensive Restoration

by
July 30, 2024

SEASIDE HEIGHTS, NJ—The iconic 1910 Dr. Floyd L. Moreland Carousel has reopened in Seaside Heights following a comprehensive nine-year restoration effort. The Ocean County Board of Commissioners, including Deputy Director Gary Quinn and Commissioner Frank Sadeghi, celebrated the event with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 28.

The restoration project involved the collaborative efforts of volunteers, Carousels & Carvings for mechanical refurbishment, and local artist Marie deSaules, who restored many of the carousel’s horses. The project also included the restoration of the original Wurlitzer organ, enhancing the nostalgic experience for visitors.

Historic seaside heights carousel reopens after extensive restoration
Photo: historic seaside heights carousel reopens after extensive restoration

The ceremony was attended by notable figures such as Seaside Heights Mayor Anthony Vaz, members of the Borough Council, Public Works Department employees, trustees of the Seaside Heights Historical Society, and NJ Department of Community Affairs Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suarez. Borough Administrator Christopher Vaz served as the unofficial ride operator for the day.

In addition to the carousel, a new museum dedicated to Seaside Heights history is set to open within the carousel house at a future date, promising to offer residents and visitors alike a deeper look into the rich cultural tapestry of the area.

Historic seaside heights carousel reopens after extensive restoration
Photo: historic seaside heights carousel reopens after extensive restoration
Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

As the founder of Shore News Network, Stilton oversees editorial operations, investigative reporting, and breaking news coverage while working closely with journalists, public officials, and community leaders. His reporting has covered municipal government, state politics, federal policy, public records investigations, emergency management, and major news events affecting local communities.

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