June 26 – Celebrating the Cyclone!

Posted on June 26, 2016

A quarter of a century ago is already “history.” And a quarter of a century ago, on this date in 1991, the Coney Island Cyclone roller coaster was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The National Register of Historic Places isn't just places. It is a list of districts, buildings, and other sites, structures, and objects deemed worthy of preservation. It includes battlefields and theaters, churches and bridges and fountains. It probably does not include a lot of roller coasters!

The Cyclone was opened in New York City on this date in 1927, so it is 89 years old and heading for his centennial! With a 2,640-foot-long track, 6 fan turns, 12 drops – one of them a 85-foot drop! – the wooden roller coaster requires a lot of money for upkeep.

Coney Island used to be very popular – and the roller coaster was very a big part of that. However, the area has seen a decline in use. City planners, roller-coaster owners, and the people of New York City have disagreed about whether or not to Save the Cyclone, but a variety of amusement parks have and continue to operate the ride.

Right now, it is run by Luna Park - and it's featured in a Beyonce music video!