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The Virginia Carousel There's only one Virginia Carousel! Located in it's own building at Back Home on the Farm, this thirty horse merry-go-round has been lovingly restored and painted to feature famous Virginians, Virginia products, places and landscape. Open to the public during regular maze hours.
History: The carousel was purchased from the Onancock Fire Department at Auction in the spring of 2007 and the horses were refurbished in 2008 to serve as an educational homage to the state of Virginia. Fully operational, work continues as other parts of the carousel and the building are finished to complement the Virginia theme.
This carousel is a combination of 3 individual carousels made in the 40's and 50's by Alan Herschell. The original horses were made of wood and were considered so valuable that they were sold to make money to keep the carousel running. The 30 horses now on the carousel are aluminum and were made in the 80's.
The Horses: Each horse is painted to represent a famous Virginian or industry. Each horse was painstakingly researched and detailed painting represents events of historical significance or events in the life of the featured person. Virginians chose to be featured cover a broad spectrum of our state's talent. From presidents and civil war heros to singers, statesmen,and authors, you may be surprised at some of the famous people who wouldcall Virginia their birthplace.
The Rounding Board: The rounding board is the panel that surrounds the top of the carousel. There are twelve sections, each showcasing two places in Virginia of interest. Chosen for historical and economic interest, you'll see paintings of Arlington National Cemetery, The Dismal Swamp, and 22 other buildings and locations throughout the entire state.
About the artist:
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Britney Mongold lives in Fulks Run, Virginia. She graduated from Broadway High School and studied art at Hollins College. She became a member of the "Back Home on the Farm" team during its first year and has been instrumental in developing new educational exhibits and displays. When refurbishing of the carousel began in January of 2008, Britney researched the Virginians to be featured, designed and painted each horse. It is estimated that over 20 hours was involved in restoring each horse. In 2009 she spent her time researching and completing the 24 locations in Virginia that are featured on the rounding board. Plans yet to be completed include native wildflowers on the medallions atop the rounding boards and a mural of valley countryside around the center pole. 
