As early as 1964, the design and concept of a groundbreaking amusement park was growing in the mind of an ambitious young man by the name of Gary Wachs.
Riding History to the Limits
As early as 1964, the design and concept of a groundbreaking amusement park was growing in the mind of an ambitious young man by the name of Gary Wachs. Until this time, modern amusement parks were leaving roller coasters and other thrill rides out of the mix. Mr. Wachs knew that bringing back the thrill to amusement parks was a path that would be as profitable as it was popular in the future of entertainment. After a five-year struggle, Gary's dream became reality when Kings Island opened to the public in 1972.
The story of Kings Island combines archival film footage, photographs taken by Rick Norton and also by park patrons, and there's also video shot recently in the park. Interviews include: Gary Wachs, Dennis Speigel, Charles Mechem, Jack Rouse, Don Helbig, Carmen Electra, Walter and Nancy Duff, Barry Williams, and Michael Lookinland. Hosted by Nate Byrum.
Watch the videos
Gary Wachs and Dennis Speigel discuss the overall design of the park and the purchase of a cornfield in rural Warren County.
In this segment of Riding History to the Limits we explore the birth of International Street at Kings Island.
Gary Wachs and Dennis Speigel discuss the chaos of opening day in 1972, the financial projections for the first season, and the mid-season rush of park patrons.
In this segment of Riding History to the Limits we look at Coney Mall, the newly-developed reproduction of Coney Island built at Kings Island.
In this segment of Riding History to the Limits we take a look back at the most popular and expensive ride at Kings Island.
What spawned the idea of this historic section of the park?
Dennis Speigel and Gary Wachs speak of the festivities in the almost extinct Oktoberfest section of the park, while Walter and Nancy Duff reminisce about the rides of Oktoberfest.
In the last segment of Riding History to the Limits we discuss the wild Animal Safari, Timberwolf, and the first launch coaster - the Screamin' Demon.
