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Reliving history

Collection 04 · 04-22

Fairy Whip, 1959 (04-22)

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Watercolor painting of the Fairy Whip at Trimper Rides in Ocean City, Maryland, in 1959, showing ornate small open cars on a classic circular amusement ride.

Historical narrative

The Fairy Whip at Trimper Rides was already a beloved attraction by 1959, representing the golden age of classic American amusement rides. Dating to the early twentieth century, the ride featured small open cars that glided and swung around a circular wooden floor, creating surprising bursts of speed without towering heights. For a young child visiting Ocean City, the Fairy Whip felt magical. After handing a ticket to the operator, the child climbed into a brightly painted car and gripped the rail as the ride began. Organ music echoed through the pavilion while the car swooped around curves and whipped unexpectedly toward the center. The cool ocean breeze drifted inside, and every turn brought laughter, excitement, and a sense of adventure.

Watercolor