Founded in 1990, The Carousel Museum in Bristol, Connecticut, has successfully cared for over 400 carousel figures and hosted over 750,000 visitors. We use our collection not just for display but as a powerful educational tool, enlightening visitors of all ages about life, work, and entertainment in America at the turn of the twentieth century. To enrich educational experiences, the Carousel Museum seeks to acquire an operational antique carousel for its permanent collection. 

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the Carousel Museum works to impact the lives of our community's children and families while preserving and restoring a critical American art form.

 

Our Collection Committee has identified a carousel of historical importance that has been in storage since 1988. We are actively securing funding to operate it in our community. In 2025, we have a $75,000 match challenge from a California donor, and we are seeking your help!

 

With your help, our carousel project will address four goals for the central Connecticut community and the museum:

 

1. Reduce social isolation for seniors and children.

2. Preserve American art and history.

3. Connect generations of families.

4. Bring an important carousel back into operation, one of only 150 left in the country.

 

Our community needs an affordable and accessible gathering space that creates joy and welcomes all generations— the foundation of a strong and resilient community.

 

We have already secured $305,000 of the total $850,000 acquisition project.

• $100,000 Anonymous contribution

• $30,000 from the Broad View Fund

• $100,000 from the Clinton S. Roberts Foundation

• $75,000 Transportation of machine from Ohio to Connecticut

 

This acquisition is the first step and cornerstone of an expanded museum facility and programmatic efforts to expand our community impact. We are committed to enhancing the quality of life in central Connecticut and hope that you will help us make this joyous investment.