On Nov. 19, Pullen Park in Raleigh reopened after a two-year, $6 million renovation. Pullen Park was opened 124 years ago, making it the oldest amusement park in North Carolina, the fifth oldest in the United States and the 16th oldest in the world.
I have so many wonderful memories, as many who grew up in Raleigh do, of trips to Pullen Park as a child. My favorite part was the 1911 Dentzel Carousel, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. I would ride ‘round and ‘round for hours (or as long as my Mom could stand it) on one of the beautiful horses. The Carousel is now housed in a spacious, climate-controlled building that will protect it for years to come. My brother’s favorite ride was the miniature train. We loved riding around the entire park on the one-third-size replica of the C.P. Huntington locomotive. I remember thinking how funny it was to watch the adults try to fold themselves up so they could enjoy the ride with their kids.
Richard Stanhope Pullen donated the 66-acre park to the city in 1887. In 1885, the city had donated 20 acres to establish an agricultural and industrial college that would become North Carolina State University, and Pullen Park is adjacent to the university at the intersection of Pullen Road and Western Boulevard.
Money for the renovation was part of the 2003 Parks and Recreation Bond Referendum. Thanks to the citizens of Raleigh for protecting this treasure for generations to come. Make sure and go enjoy it the next time you are in Raleigh! It’s something not to be missed.
By Phyllis Brookshire (Senior Vice President)
