The Defunct Ramona Amusement Park, Grand Rapids: 1881-1955
Once upon a time, Michigan had such a great number of amusement parks...all through the state all the way into the furthermost regions of the Upper Peninsula.
Unfortunately, the majority of them are gone: torn down and forgotten. One of those places was Ramona Park along Reeds Lake in East Grand Rapids lasting from 1881 to 1955.
WHAT PERKS DID RAMONA PARK HAVE?
This park had just about something for everyone: a theater pavilion, miniature railway, trolley service, and boat livery....not to mention all the cool rides! Flying Scooters, Figure 8 roller coaster, Venetian Swings, Ferris wheel, Aero-swings, Kiddie Autos, Merry-go-round, Mystic Chutes, Loop-O-Plane, Fun House, and Derby Racer. There were plenty of midway games and concession stands...this was a paradise for families!
The park was wisely built next to Reeds Lake, which for years had been a favorite destination for summertime tourists and vacationers. It was a place for picnics, boating, and even entertainment. Many old-time celebrities performed here, including Jack Benny, Will Rogers, the Marx Brothers, Jimmy Durante, Buster Keaton and many others. In fact, a young Groucho Marx made his professional debut here as one of the backing singers for drag performer Gene Leroy in 1905.
Not yet a celebrity, but future President of the United States Gerald Ford worked at Ramona Park.
So, what happened? Evidently, the citizens of East Grand Rapids didn’t feel like hanging onto this 74-year-old dinosaur, so in 1954 they voted to tear it down and replace it with apartment buildings, stores, and shopping centers.
Currently, there is a sign that marks Ramona Park as a Michigan Historic Site. Scroll down to see some photos...
Ramona Park, Grand Rapids: 1881-1955
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