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History in my Back Yard

By
Real Estate Agent with The Property Shoppe, LLC

Recently, I noticed that the old stone building along route 115 in Blakeslee (PA) was torn down.  It was just there forever and then one day it wasn't.  I often wondered what it had been, but no one seemed to know.  The one day last week, I stumbled upon a great web site,  www.palostparks, and there was the answer.

 

The structure had likely been a skating rink, just one part of a great amusement park from the 1930s to 1950s.  According to the site, the park featured rides, music, dancing, pools,a carousel and baseball games.   

 

The article states that the park was closed after a flood in 1955 - long before I was born.  In all my years here, I can't believe I never knew about it's history.

 

Today, a marker identifies the site as the Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area.  Well, I am pleased that the site will be preserved and enjoyed by a new generation who may prefer hiking and waterfalls.  I wonder if Mr. Blakeslee ever rode the carousel?

 

 

Comments(1)

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Matthew Cordisco
Pocono Mountain Lakes Realty - Pocono Lake, PA
Pocono Real Estate Professional

Neat!  I couldn't place where you were talking about until you said how it is now Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area.  

 

Crazy to think a flood closed the amusement park though.  With no major waterways in the area, it just goes to show you that Mother Nature is unpredictable, especially in these mountains!

 

Nov 07, 2010 03:59 AM