Images of America: Saline County Kansas
Early Saline County was a land rich in Native American history. Only a few settlers migrated to the area prior to the railroad development that started in 1867. Milling and grains, livestock, and even gypsum mining all influenced the growth of Saline County. Salina became a prominent city, whereas Hedville and other towns were altered, almost lost, as the railroads continued to build and change their depots, creating boom and bust economies in the county. Tornados, fires, droughts, and floods challenged the hardy souls who called this area home. Salina and the towns that have survived the booms and busts have a robust history.
American Photographs: Joyland Amusement Park
During its heyday, Joyland was a beloved attraction for both locals and tourists. The park featured a wide variety of rides and attractions, catering to visitors of all ages. The Whacky Shack, a dark ride filled with spooky surprises, was a favorite among thrill-seekers. The Log Jam, a water ride that sent riders down a winding flume, provided a refreshing escape from the summer heat. The Sky Coaster, a thrilling swing ride that soared high above the park, offered breathtaking views of Wichita.
Under the Nelsons' ownership, Joyland experienced significant growth and expansion. They added new rides, improved existing ones, and created a welcoming atmosphere for families. The park became a popular destination for birthday parties, school trips, and family outings.
However, as the years went by, Joyland faced increasing competition from larger amusement parks in neighboring cities. The rising costs of maintenance and operation also took a toll on the park's profitability. Despite efforts to keep the park running, declining attendance and financial difficulties eventually led to its closure in 2006. Since then, Joyland has remained abandoned, with its once vibrant rides and attractions now in a state of decay. The closure of the park left a void in Wichita's entertainment scene, and many residents still hold fond memories of their visits to Joyland.
Efforts have been made to revive the park or repurpose the land, but so far, none have come to fruition. The fate of Joyland remains uncertain, but its legacy as Wichita's largest amusement park will always hold a special place in the city's history.
Under the Nelsons' ownership, Joyland experienced significant growth and expansion. They added new rides, improved existing ones, and created a welcoming atmosphere for families. The park became a popular destination for birthday parties, school trips, and family outings.
However, as the years went by, Joyland faced increasing competition from larger amusement parks in neighboring cities. The rising costs of maintenance and operation also took a toll on the park's profitability. Despite efforts to keep the park running, declining attendance and financial difficulties eventually led to its closure in 2006. Since then, Joyland has remained abandoned, with its once vibrant rides and attractions now in a state of decay. The closure of the park left a void in Wichita's entertainment scene, and many residents still hold fond memories of their visits to Joyland.
Efforts have been made to revive the park or repurpose the land, but so far, none have come to fruition. The fate of Joyland remains uncertain, but its legacy as Wichita's largest amusement park will always hold a special place in the city's history.
2019 Edition - Information
Author: Dustin Ray Shannon Publisher: Shannon Historical Associates Pages: 72 Colored Images Binding: Paperback, Hardback Publication Date: August 21st, 2015 Sale Date: June 25th, 2019 |
2023 Edition - Information
Author: Dustin Ray Shannon Publisher: Shannon Historical Associates Pages: 126 Colored Images Binding: Paperback, Hardback Publication Date: August 21st, 2015 Sale Date: August 21st, 2023 |
American Photographs: Kansas Amusement Parks
The world of amusement finally came to Kansas in the 1880s after the success of America’s first Roller Coaster. The fascination of coasters, which started being constructed in many Kansas towns starting in 1877, had a big impact on Kansans. The state suffered a great loss when most of the pleasure parks started to decline before the 1920s. Some 20 years later, Kiddielands were prospering all over the state but they did not last long either as most closed before or in the 1980s. Joyland of Wichita was Kansas' last family park till it closed in 2006.
This title has been retired and no longer forsale.
American Beach Towns: Cosey Beach Connecticut
Snuggled on the shore of East Haven, the salt water community endured much over the years including natural disasters and economical down falls. Cosey Beach had such wonderful appeal when a trolley operated on the avenue along with a carousel, numerous eating establishments and hotels. The trolley and the many attractions which enticed visitors to the shore had come to pass. The once treasured beach resort known for its cleanliness and safety has downsized into a residential beach community.
American Newspapers: Chico Advertiser
The liveliness of the young town of Chico, which was situated in Saline County, Kansas, lasted only for nine years. The town's local newspaper, The Chico Advertiser, illustrated the town's roaring boom. Later, the town's demise began with the paper ceasing operations. During an eleven-month period, the paper published stories and covered events that occurred during the early life of the town. In this epistolary novel, the author will piece together the ongoing efforts of those hardy souls who called Chico their home.
Book Information
Author: Dustin Ray Shannon
ISBN # TBD
Binding: Hardback
Publication Date: TBD
Publisher: Shannon Historical Associates
Printer: Blurb & Company
Author: Dustin Ray Shannon
ISBN # TBD
Binding: Hardback
Publication Date: TBD
Publisher: Shannon Historical Associates
Printer: Blurb & Company
Defunct Amusement Parks of Alabama: Space City USA
The world is speckled with lands of awe and wonder that capture the imagination of children and the young-at-heart. Disney World, Six Flags Over Georgia, Universal Studios, and Opryland deliver excitement and thrills that stretch beyond known realities and transport guests to foreign worlds. Before these wondrous lands opened to the public, though, there was promise of an amusement park that aimed to send guests through time and space. Originally named “Time World,” Space City USA was slated to open in 1964, one year before Walt Disney ushered in its first guests. Construction on the multifaceted amusement park began in 1961 with plans showcasing an expansive layout that would transport visitors back in time and to the depths of space. But it was a dream that never came true. Nearly half of the park was completed when construction halted in 1967, leaving behind a relic lost to time in the Northern Alabama city of Huntsville.
Book Information
Author: Dustin Ray Shannon ISBN # 978-1-63760-723-7 Binding: Paperback / Hardback Release Date: January 1st, 2021 Pre-Order Sales Date: December 25th, 2020 Publisher: Shannon Historical Associates Printer: Blurb & Company |
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Book Information
Author: Dustin Ray Shannon
ISBN # TBD
Binding: Paperback / Hardback
Estimated Publication Date: TBD
Publisher: Shannon Historical Associates
Printer: Blurb & Company
Author: Dustin Ray Shannon
ISBN # TBD
Binding: Paperback / Hardback
Estimated Publication Date: TBD
Publisher: Shannon Historical Associates
Printer: Blurb & Company