Carousels are rotating platforms with seats that are often decorated with animals. They are a popular amusement ride at fairs and playgrounds.
History
The world's oldest carousel was built in Germany in 1780.
The first mechanically powered carousel was built in the early 1860s by an Englishman named Thomas Bradshaw.
Design
Carousels are often decorated with lights, paintings, and animals.
The lead horse on a carousel is usually the biggest and most decorative.
Carousels are powered by electric motors that spin a pulley that drives a belt and a larger pulley.
Operation
Carousels rotate on a stationary center pole.
The horses on a carousel move up and down as the carousel rotates.
The horses on the outside of the carousel have a faster linear speed than those at the hub.
Other names merry-go-round.
Carousel in playgrounds
Playground carousels are not powered by a machine.
Children make the carousel spin by holding on to the handle bars and running in a circle.