News >Saratoga Springs NY: The Horses Are Corralled And Call Congress Park Home

By: Nicole Dallek

Did you know that the horses in Congress Park were not always there? No, not real horses, but the basswood beauties that make up the Congress Park Carousel.

In 1910 when Marcus Charles Illions carved these beautiful masterpieces he wanted to make sure they entertained and were able to “wow” children of all ages. But in 1987 the future looked pretty unpromising for these gorgeous horses that have been running at full speed around there hardwood track at many Saratoga County venues. Their last home, the Kaydeross Park on Saratoga Lake, was unfortunately being sold for development.

It was then decided that the carousel was going to go straight to the auctioning table and the horses would be released from their paddock one by one.

But before these purebred horses were released into the wild, local townspeople and the former Department of Public Works Commissioner, Tommy McTygue agreed to present a bid to keep the gang in Saratoga Springs. The only thing was, they would have to come up with the money.

Working fast, McTygue and other volunteers went into town to local stores and residents to see if they could raise money. In a few weeks, the Saratoga Springs community raised close to $120,000. The community offered the auctioneers $150,000 for the complete carousel, including the 28 horses that have real horsehair tails.

After some negotiation, the bid was accepted and the carousel found its new home in Congress Park. Since1987, the carousel has been restored and was reopened in 2002

Today the Congress Park Carousel is open seasonally, from the beginning of May and is usually open though Columbus Day each year.  For some good old fashioned fun, you can ride the carousel for just 50 cents a spin!

The Congress Park Carousel is also open for many special events in Saratoga Springs, including the Victorian Streetwalk in December and First Night Saratoga on New Years Eve.

Call (518) 587-3550 x2561 for additional details on hours, rain dates and other information on the Congress Park Carousel.

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