Seaside Heights' Iconic Carousel Spins Back into Action

For generations, families and visitors have enjoyed the timeless charm of the Floyd Moreland Carousel in Seaside Heights. Recently, this iconic boardwalk attraction was brought back to life after a detailed restoration that spanned several years. Originally removed from the Casino Pier Arcade in 2019, the 114-year-old carousel made its much-anticipated return, thrilling locals and tourists alike.

Located at the north end of the Seaside Heights boardwalk, the carousel reopened with great fanfare during a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Ocean County officials and community members. The restoration, which took over nine years of dedicated effort, included repairs to the Wurlitzer organ and intricate carvings that decorate the carousel.

Much of the artistic restoration was led by local artist Marie deSaules, who painstakingly refurbished the horses and other decorative features. Deputy Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Gary Quinn and Commissioner Frank Sadeghi were among the first to ride the restored carousel, now situated in its new home along Ocean Terrace.

The carousel’s rebirth is part of a larger project that includes the future opening of a Seaside Heights history museum. This attraction will celebrate not only the carousel but also the rich cultural history of the area.

Dr. Floyd Moreland, the carousel’s namesake and a longtime champion of its preservation, expressed joy during the ceremony. Moreland had been instrumental in saving the carousel from being sold and initiated the $2.5 million restoration project. His personal connection to the carousel runs deep—he first operated it as a teenager and continued to care for it over the decades.

The restoration journey involved the delicate disassembly of the carousel, with parts being sent to Ohio for repairs. Carousels and Carvings of Marion, Ohio, a firm specializing in carousel restoration, played a key role in the project. Each hand-painted horse, carriage, and intricate detail was lovingly restored and reassembled, just in time for its grand reopening ahead of the July 4th holiday.

Mayor Anthony Vaz celebrated the carousel’s return, highlighting the $1.5 million in grants that helped fund the restoration. The carousel now stands as a testament to Seaside Heights’ dedication to preserving its historical landmarks.

With rides costing only $4 for adults (and free for children under 42 inches), the carousel is set to create new memories for families, while honoring the past.

Dr. Moreland remarked that the carousel offers more than just a fun ride—it symbolizes a simpler, kinder world, bringing people back to an era of gentler joys. He hopes that it will continue to bring happiness to the community for generations to come.