Flying Ponies

Carl Gaertner (American, 1898-1952) Flying Ponies (Euclid Beach Park), 1932 Oil on canvas Carol and Michael Sherwin Collection

Euclid Beach Park, located along the shores of Lake Erie at E. 156th Street, was the citys most popular amusement center during its existence from 1894 to 1969. Inviting Clevelanders with the slogan, ìNothing to depress or demoralize, it boasted a skating rink, bath houses, entertainment facilities, a roller coaster, and other amusements. This painting depicts the park at night, daringly illuminated by the light of booths, a distant roller coaster, and the glowing top of a swirling carousel. The intermingling figures convey the artist's interpretation of Euclid Beach Park as a place of social interchange.