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Fun on the flying machine at Southport, Merseyside
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Fun on the flying machine at Southport, Merseyside
Fun on Hiram Maxims " Captive Flying Machine" amusement ride at Southport, Merseyside, which opened in 1904. Testament to the design, the Blackpool version of this ride still operates to this day, the oldest operating amusement ride in Europe! Date: circa 1904
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 11551916
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Captive Extreme Funfair Health Hiram Holidaymakers Machines Maxim Merseyside Overcrowded Ride Safety Silly Southport Unsafe Wild Bech
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Fun in Motion: A Blast from the Past at Southport's Captive Flying Machine Step back in time and experience the thrill of Fun on the Flying Machine at Southport, Merseyside, a cherished piece of amusement ride history that first took flight in circa 1904. This photograph captures the wild and overcrowded scene of holidaymakers in high spirits as they bravely take turns on the Captive Flying Machine, also known as Hiram Maxim's Captive Flying Machines or simply, Captive Machines. The Flying Machine, a testament to the design ingenuity of its era, was the first successful large-scale amusement ride to combine the elements of a roller coaster and a flying scooter. Riders would sit in individual carts suspended from a circular frame, which would then be hoisted up and released, sending the carts spinning and soaring around the ride's track. Despite its exhilarating appeal, the Flying Machine was not without controversy. Critics argued that the ride posed health and safety risks, with concerns over the potential for accidents and the extreme speeds reached by the carts. However, the fun-loving holidaymakers of Southport seemed unfazed, eagerly lining up for their turn on this wild and humorous ride. The Blackpool version of this ride still operates to this day, making it the oldest operating amusement ride in Europe. This photograph serves as a reminder of the rich history and carefree spirit of the funfair and seaside resort culture that continues to captivate us, even as we look forward to the thrills of modern amusement parks.
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