Kingsport Carousel

History

In 2008, Mr. Joh began a serious inquiry into how to make that dream become reality.  With the support of Alderman Tom Parham, Mr. Joh solicited the help of Bonnie Macdonald in the City of Kingsport Cultural Arts office.  Gale was also persistent in his efforts to recruit his fellow Kiwanis members to the support of this project.

Through Gale’s research he discovered that Chattanooga, TN had recently installed two working carousels whose animals had been hand-carved by the “Horsin’ Around Wood Carving Studio” owned by Bud Ellis.  Road Trip!  In April 2009, after at least two snow-canceled efforts – the research team headed to Chattanooga.  First stop was the wood carving studio.  Mr. Bud Ellis and his merry band of wood carvers could not have been nicer.  Taking time to explain the process and show off some of their handiwork, the carvers also provided a tour of both Chattanooga carousels and of course, a ride or two.

It was just one of those things, when we got to the point we needed an electrician, I’d pray for an electrician.  Then as folks heard about the project, sure enough an electrician would show up, ready and willing to help.

Certainly the team of researchers on that April 2009 trip fell in love with the idea of a carousel and the artistry of the hand-carved animals, but the quest remained – how would Kingsport get a carousel?  Again, Gale was undaunted.  He continued to talk about the concept, now armed with a first-hand visit to the ‘Horsin Around’ Wood Carving Studio and fueled by the enthusiasm and joy of those April carousel rides.  Bud Ellis was also encouraging and had shared his own experiences with his Carousel story.  In Chattanooga, city support came late to the project, so all work was done as resources and enthusiasm of private individuals allowed.  Mr. Ellis explained, “It was just one of those things, when we got to the point we needed an electrician, I’d pray for an electrician.  Then as folks heard about the project, sure enough an electrician would show up, ready and willing to help.”