Dentzel Carousel Rehabilitation

Restoration work complete

Rehabilitation of the carousel is complete. We welcome you to once again ride the Dentzel Carousel, an incredible piece of history, art, and whimsy!

 

Tiger on the Dentzel Carousel

NPS Photo

Since 1921, the beautiful Dentzel Carousel has been the centerpiece of Glen Echo Park. The National Park Service is committed to preserving this still operational historical attraction and wants to ensure that it will continue to be the center of the park, and that the music of its lively band organ will continue to resonate throughout the park. In the summer of 2019, the National Park Service, in partnership with Montgomery County and Glen Echo Park Partnership for Art and Culture, began a project to replace the failing roof of the carousel and rehabilitate the historic carousel Band Organ Room.

“During Glen Echo’s time as an amusement park, the Dentzel Carousel was the jewel of the park and it still remains the most treasured centerpiece of the park for visitors,” said Superintendent Cuvelier. “For visitors of any age, an afternoon outing is not complete without a ride on the carousel.”

Learn more about the Dentzel Carousel

 

The Dentzel Carousel animals were covered for protection while the carousel and its building were being rehabilitated.

NPS Photo

Last replaced in 2004, by 2019, the carousel roof was showing significant overall deterioration—even punctures— exposing the carousel to the elements. Due to its rotting wood roof and floor, the Band Organ Room needed a complete rehabilitation. The Band Organ Room dates back to 1933 and ensures a safe and secure environment for the 1926 Wurlitzer band organ.

Before Carousel Day on May 2, 2020, and just in time for the carousel's 99th year of operation, the support structures were replaced and the roof was replaced and repainted. Additionally, the organ sound amplification features were upgraded to ensure the band organ music can resonate through the park.

The Dentzel Carousel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as an exceptionally fine example of the art of a carousel building and because it remains in its historic location.

 

Newly refurbished carousel canopy.

NPS Image

The canopies of the carousel and the damaged mural have been repaired. The carousel band organ has also returned after a yearlong offsite refurbishment and storage. Derwood Center did the refurbishment, which marked the third time the band organ has been refurbished. Rosa Reagan who worked to fix the damaged canopies, also did the organ wood facade refurbishment. Additionally, the copper finial has also been placed back on top of the carousel.

 

A contractor works to repaint a damaged mural.

NPS Image