Photo: Adam Ahmed. View full-sized image.
ACE members gathered for an evening of classic charm and carousel fun at The Carousel at Pottstown during ACE Eastern Pennsylvania’s first-ever Merry-Go-ACE event on Saturday, March 28, 2026.
Photo: Millie D’Auria. View full-sized image.
The registration crew was ready to greet attendees.
Photo: Millie D’Auria. View full-sized image.
The event began with exclusive ride time on the beautifully restored carousel, giving attendees the opportunity to enjoy multiple rides while taking in the craftsmanship and historic details of this treasured attraction.
Built in 1905 by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company (PTC #9), the carousel made its debut at Euclid Beach Park in Cleveland, Ohio. With its hand-carved wooden animals and ornate details, it quickly became a beloved attraction for families.
Over the decades, it traveled to New England and later to Pine Grove, Pennsylvania, continuing to bring joy to generations of riders. The relaxed evening atmosphere made for a perfect setting to connect with fellow enthusiasts while enjoying one of the region’s unique historic rides.
Mark Saylor spoke to the attendees about the carousel’s history and efforts to keep it operating.
Photo: Millie D’Auria. View full-sized image.
In addition to carousel rides, the venue included arcade games.
Photo: Adam Ahmed. View full-sized image.
A highlight of the evening was a special history presentation from the venue’s president of the board, Mark Saylor. Attendees learned about the carousel’s origins, restoration efforts and dedicated volunteer work that keeps the attraction operating for the community. Saylor’s presentation offered fascinating insights into the preservation of this historic piece of amusement history.
A trivia contest tested attendees’ knowledge of the carousel and ACE Eastern Pennsylvania amusement park history.
Photo: Millie D’Auria. View full-sized image.
The fun continued with a trivia contest that tested attendees’ knowledge of the Carousel at Pottstown and Eastern Pennsylvania amusement park history. After a spirited competition, Mechele Albright emerged as the winner, earning bragging rights for the evening.
Photo: Sue Yekel. View full-sized image.
Regional Rep Mike Matscherz welcomed attendees during lunch.
Photo: Janine Rebbie Matscherz. View full-sized image.
Guests also enjoyed a delicious potluck buffet that featured a wide variety of homemade favorites. The spread included mac ‘n’ cheese, pulled pork, cold salads, fried rice, chips, pizza and refreshing Pennsylvania Dutch birch beer. One young ACE member, Teagan Y., appropriately stated, “If there’s a feast, I feast,” which is exactly what attendees were treated to. The shared meal added to the welcoming, ACE community-focused feel of the event. A huge thank you to all of the attendees who contributed to the meal’s success!
ACE Eastern Pennsylvania extends its gratitude to the volunteers and leadership at The Carousel at Pottstown for hosting a memorable evening of history, food and classic carousel rides. Events like Merry-Go-ACE continue to highlight the charm and importance of preserving historic attractions while bringing enthusiasts together.
— Mike Matscherz, ACE Eastern Pennsylvania Regional Representative
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