Idora Park Experience recreates cherished memories with permanent interactive exhibit
On Monday, the Mahoning Valley Historical Society signed an acquisition agreement with Jim and Toni Amey, owners of The Idora Park Experience collection.
“We will be developing exhibits so people can interact with items in different ways, such as sitting in the cars of the roller coasters and viewing a simulated ride, playing the games, seeing and hearing the sights and sounds of carnival games and rides, and more,” said Lindsay Samblanet, communications manager at the historical society. “The Valley was devastated when it burned down in 1984. This exhibit will be a chance for many to relive their childhood once again.”
The Idora Park Experience artifacts have a new home at a newly purchased building at 250 E. Federal St. The historical society is planning a fundraising campaign to raise money for renovations at the new site.
“This is something that we are currently working on, and will need to take measures to ensure the safety of the artifacts, so we will be working with a museum developer for that once we get the area on Federal Street ready for display,” said Samblanet.
The interactive exhibit will feature many familiar former rides that were at the park.
“There are a number of items that we will be gaining from this collection,” said Samblanet. “Some items that will be part of the interactive collection include wild cats cars, jack rabbit cars, ferris wheel seats, bumper cars, Hooterville cars, fun house mirrors, Kiddieland ride seats, Kiddieland train, and games.”
Samblanet is planning on developing the exhibit over the next two years.
“Idora Park is important to the Mahoning Valley because it brings a sense of nostalgia to those that visited the park for over 80 years. It was a place for families to visit and enjoy a day of fun, watch a ball game, listen to live music, play games and eat delicious food. Idora Park brings back memories of happy times with family and friends,” said Samblanet.