In 1877, a humble boat landing was
constructed on Conneaut Lake, Pennsylvania’s largest natural lake.
Colonel Frank Mantor, a visionary, discovered and purchased the
property and convinced investors from the Pittsburgh, Shenango, and
Lake Erie Railroad to extend the railroad line to a newly built
resort on the site. In 1892, Exposition Park — a permanent fair
exhibiting machinery and livestock — was founded. Amusement rides
were added alongside hotels, cottages, restaurants, and other
businesses. The resort grew into an amusement park and was renamed
Conneaut Lake Park in 1920. Conneaut Lake Park illustrates the
evolution of this lakeside resort with images of long-gone
attractions such as the Hotel Elmwood, Temple of Music, Jungle
Cruise, Fairyland Forest, and Wild Mouse.
About the author
Michael E. Costello, a member of
the American Coaster Enthusiasts, has been visiting Conneaut Lake
Park since the mid-1980s. He co-produced a documentary about the
park in 2001 and has worked as a ride operator. In 2002, he took a
turn as the park mascot, Connie Otter. Costello maintains a Web site
called Mike’s Historic Amusement Parks and designs the Conneaut Lake
Park map.
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