Generally regarded as one of the
finest fairground books of all time, and now much sought after.
This is a first edition hardback (published in London) in very good condition.
The liner notes state:
"The fairground has
reflected many facets of social history, and this book gives an
absorbing account of its development from the pagan festivals of
ancient Greece to the great medieval trading fairs, and how the
various forms of popular entertainment provided at these fairs
eventually became the principal attraction.
The author analyses the three
basic elements of the fair: the Joy Ride, including all the
different types of Carousel, Merry-go-round, Whirligig and Scenic
Railway: the Joints - that is, the sideshows and stalls;
and the Transportation used for travelling between fairs.
There are chapters on the planning of fairground sites, and on the
construction and decoration that are the essence of fairground
architecture and remarkable for their spontaneity and diversity of
style. Of more than 250 illustrations, many have never been
reproduced before. Among them are scale plans of fairgrounds,
original works drawings and templates used for the carved work.
Also included is a glossary of terms and words enjoying special
usage in the business, biographical notes on some of the leading
personalities and a Calendar of Fairs. This book forms the first
comprehensive study of a fascinating subject."
Condition: Very good with fair
dustjacket. Dustjacket has section missing top front but is
otherwise in very good condition. Book itself is tight and
clean. Click on photograph above for close-up of the book we are
selling.
Buy 1976 reprint...
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