Once numbering in the thousands, carousels have delighted millions across the United States and all over the world for more than a century... the Golden Age of carousels being from 1867 to 1930. During the depression there was a decline in the demand for carousel art.

The Southern Maryland Carousel Group, Inc. was established in 2004 with a vision to construct and operate an Old World style carousel, housed in a museum with a multi-cultural learning center. The location in southern Maryland to be determined as the project moves forward.

There are 3 phases to the project:     1. The carving of the 48 Old World style carousel animals.
                                                        2. Building of the indoor facility to house the carousel and
                                                             Carousel/Woodcarving museum and learning center.
                                                        3. Building of the outdoor fountain complex for the
                                                            children to enjoy.
    
This beautiful carousel art is being revived by the Southern Maryland Woodcarvers. Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 to 3 p.m., carving of the carousel animals can be observed in the Davis Building in La Plata, MD. Any person or group is welcome to visit history being made. After being carved, sanded and primed the animals are brought to life with acrylic paint by local artists.

More than 20 animals have been carved. Most of the animals are based in the Davis building. Some are on display at various site in the area.

All of the volunteer work by the woodcarvers and painters is a gift of love to the community.


      For more information, contact:      Southern Maryland Carousel Group, Inc.
                                                                       P O Box 2335
                                                                   La Plata, MD 20646
                                                                      301-934-1366