Be sure to consult our Buyer's Guide & Fakes Database before purchasing a carousel figure. Each day, more and more knock-offs come on the market. Some look old but looks can be deceiving. Become an informed buyer.
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Miniature Carousel Builders Corner
This month's carousel was built by an impressive 'self-taught' retiree, Mrs. Edward (Cora) Hursey of Ohio, a member of the Miniature Carousel Builders. Cora built her first carousel in 1997 in one year and is currently building her second one. We have learned that she began her workshop skills at an early pre-school age in her father's greenhouse. Over the years she was involved with wood crafts including scroll cutting. Upon retiring, Cora taught herself to carve from books and this led to building a carousel, with her own plans and without any help, She was motivated to do this because "everybody loves carousels." This is a 'solo' hobby and husband, Ed marvels at her work, describing her as a 'perfectionist who does top quality work.
THE DETAILS:
- Base: Hexagon (6-sided)
- Carousel: 32" Diameter; 36" Height
- Twelve sweeps, 2 rows
- Type: Track (Pit)
- Lights: 200 clear
- Original Design
This carousel features 23 menagerie hand carved animals and one chariot. There are 9 jumpers and 14 standers carved from basswood using Hershell-Spillman patterns. Cora used acrylic paints with a semi gloss spray varnish.
The carousel includes a band organ, and a ring machine decorated with gem stones. Blue fabric trim covers the outer edge of the platform. The rounding board is decorated with with gem stones, and displays scenery pictures from oil paintings. Mirrors are mounted on the picture board. The base contains the motor and equipment for taped organ music. The canopy is made of fabric with sequins which reflect the lighting, and is topped with a carved 'crown' ornament.
Cora has displayed her carousel in Ohio at carving shows in Columbus, Dayton, and the Mansfield Johnny Appleseed Carving Shows, Archbold Sauders Museum, nursing homes and shopping malls. She is looking forward to "The Snow Flake Castle" fund raiser at the local Senior Center.
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