St. Augustine landmark set to be dismantled after two decades

ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. — 9 a.m. Monday Update: The carousel in St. Augustine is currently being dismantled and will be taken to Port Charlotte.

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If you thought about riding the carousel in St. Augustine, you missed your chance because Sunday was the last day to do it.

City officials said the carousel will be dismantled Monday after it's been a landmark in the area since 1994.

That’s why dozens of people were lined up all day trying to get their last ride.

The last ride was initially scheduled for 9 pm on Sunday, but the carousel officially closed shortly after 10 p.m. Organizers allowed many people to make their last memory, while others reminisced about the old ones.

For 25 years it’s been a landmark for St. Augustine and it was originally built in the 1920s.

Robin Baxter is a local who’s lived in the area for decades. She said the history of the carousel is why many people admire it.

“This is a generational thing. It’s been going on for years and grandparents bringing their children their great grandchildren,” Baxter said.

Recently, city officials confirmed the carousel will be dismantled Monday after its owner died. One of his final wishes was to have the carousel taken back to his home town in Port Charlotte.

“It’s really a sentimental thing to me. I’m a baby boomer, so I think it’s just a little bit different for people who have grown up here,” Baxter said.

Some people, like Baxter, were just happy they got a chance to experience the carousel before it's gone.

“I just wish that someone would try to bring it back and keep it here in St. Augustine instead of letting it go away,” Baxter said.

There is no word yet on what will happen to the space once the carousel is gone, but we will be sure to update you once we find out more information.

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