Nearly a Century in the Making

The Friends of the Paragon Carousel are the nonprofit guardians of one of America’s most beloved historic carousels—preserving joy, history, and magic for generations to come.

Our annual appeal is our biggest and most important fundraiser of the year. Our efforts go to the supporting restoration, preservation, and the future of the carousel and its historic home.

As we look ahead to our 100th Anniversary, we’re not slowing down. We plan to restore the remaining 8 carousel horses. Begin the revitalization of the historic Clock Tower Building. This building is a vital part of our past and future—home to our museum, restoration studio, and carousel offices.

Your support during this time directly fuels next year’s restorations and planning as we build toward a once-in-a-lifetime milestone. This work is only possible with your help.

Donate. now and be a part of the next 100 years.

Donate Today

The Historic Paragon Carousel

Built in 1928 by the legendary Philadelphia Toboggan Company, the Paragon Carousel has been operating on beautiful Nantasket Beach for more than ninety years. It’s one of less than 100 grand carousels remaining in the United States.

The Paragon Carousel includes sixty-six vibrant and intricately-carved wooden horses, two rare Roman Chariots, thirty-six cherubs, eighteen goddesses, and thirty-five original paintings -- all lovingly overseen by James Hardison, Restoration Specialist. Visit James’ studio >>

The Carousel is the last remaining attraction from the beloved Paragon Park, a pinnacle of the beautiful seaside town of Hull, MA.

Come take a spin on this antique carousel, fit for children and the young-at-heart alike! We’ll have that Wurlitzer band organ playing for you.

PLAN YOUR VISIT
The historic Paragon Carousel on Nantasket Beach
 

The historic Paragon Carousel has operated on Nantasket Beach for nearly 100 years. It's the last remaining attraction from the beloved Paragon Park amusement park.

Join us in the beautiful seaside town of Hull, Massachusetts!

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The Paragon Carousel is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

A small, dedicated team of staff and volunteers work year-round to keep the Carousel up and running. Learn more, and lend a hand!

ABOUT THE CAROUSEL

  • "Who doesn't like a great ride on a carousel? This is an original, restored carousel that used to be part of Paragon Park way back in the day.

    You can ride it, and still try to catch the ring. Rides are cheap, and children love it! My wife and I enjoyed it, too.

    It is a bit of history that brings me back to my younger days. I really like how they keep it open through October. Worth taking a ride on this!"

  • “A wonderful treat for kids and a return to nostalgia for parents and grandparents.”

  • “I hate the phrase "step back in time" because that makes an activity sound outdated. It's very much present day fun…

    And yet it's just a merry-go-round. You get on and the friendly staff makes you feel special. Close your eyes, hear the music and maybe you go back to dreaming of your first love, your present love or just your love of being a kid. Then you go next door and get an ice cream cone or some fried clams. Simple.”

  • “Love this carousel! Not only is it one of the only remaining pieces of Paragon Park but it also is a must see place when you go to the beach.”

  • “This covered delight is five minutes of innocent fun that'll put a priceless grin on your two (or 22) year old.”

  • “So charming! What a cute spot. Old time New England along the shore.”

  • “Lovingly maintained… This carousel is a gem and clearly someone takes very good care of the riding horses, all beautifully painted. For a minimum price, the ride is a good length with music and horses rising up and down. Treat your kids to the experience!”

  • “Myself, my wife and two year old son visited the carousel and the creamery each evening during our four day mini vacation. The staff were awesome and made us feel very welcomed. The Creamery ice cream was amazing! We absolutely recommend the Carousel and Creamery to everyone! We will definitely go back next visit to Nantasket!”

  • “Such a beautiful old carousel and well taken care of. We had so much fun for a couple of ‘old folks’ riding it. It brought back so many childhood memories of times past. You don't see places like this anymore.”