Thornton Donovan School of New Rochelle Visits Coney.

On Thursday, October 9th at 11am, 112 students and faculty members from the prestigious Thornton Donovan School of New Rochelle arrived on a beautiful autumn day to Steeplechase Plaza greeted by Coney Island Tours founder Michael Quinn, staff members of Luna Park as well as Tom Basgil representing the Alliance for Coney Island.

Headmaster, Douglas E. Fleming who has been in charge of running the upscale school since 1968 told us that the school whose visitors ranged from the 6th to 12th grade focuses on thematic education. “Our students learn about a piece of history or part of the world then we go! We take our learning on the road!”

The students were able to enjoy a ride on the historic B&B Carousell (yes,two LL’s), Coney Island’s last custom made carousel labeled “the world’s most expensive carousel” since being purchased in 2005 for $1.8 million by the City’s Economic Development Corporation. The Carousel was shipped to the last remaining factory for restoration in Marion, Ohio located on a former military base.

The tour included the history of custom made carousel carving in the United States. Along with studying about historic Coney Island in the classroom the students have also been learning about Danish history. Since October 9th was Leif Erikson Day, the students were honoring the Danish explorer who some people believe was the first European to discover North America.

Many students were interested in learning about Charles Looff, the Danish furniture maker turned carousel carver who in around 1875 installed Coney Island’s very first carousel at Vanderveer’s Pavilion near West 5th street on Surf Avenue.

During the hour and a half tour the students learned why Coney Island is considered the birthplace of the amusement industry. Each student was taking hand written notes while being fascinated by the quirky narratives about George C. Tilyou, Paul Boyton, Luna Park founders Frederic Thompson and Elmer Dundy, Charles Feltman, William H. Reynolds, Nathan Handwerker and so many others including our present day showman Coney Island U.S.A. founder Dick Zigun.

Upon leaving Mr. Fleming told us that he will make sure that all of New Rochelle knows that Coney Island is one of the most fun and fascinating place to visit. Any time of the year.