'A Time To
Reflect, The History Of Whalom Park' is an in-depth look
into a disappearing piece of Americana, the classic
amusement park. The film chronicles the rise and fall of
Whalom and covers over 100 years of the park’s history.
Like so many
other small amusement parks at the turn of the century,
Whalom began as a weekend destination for streetcar riders.
Quickly, the park developed into a recreational gathering
place with an abundance of rides, food vendors and
first-rate entertainment. Sadly, with the combination of
poor management and the emergence of big theme parks, Whalom
Park would begin to decline in the late 20th century. The
park eventually closed its gates for the last time in the
fall of 2000.
Hear from a
number of local residents as they remember this beloved
landmark. Go back in time to the park's humble beginnings in
the rustic woodlands of Lunenburg Massachusetts. See how
Whalom's landscape changed throughout the years after a
number of destructive storms and fires. Venture though the
park during its golden years and take a ride on the Flyer
Comet roller coaster, the antique Carousel, the Tumble Bug
and other classic rides.
Recall the
many famous people that visited Whalom Park throughout the
years, from the legendary big bands in the ballroom, to
world-renowned performers in the Whalom Playhouse. Learn
about how the park was culturally significant as both a
social gathering place and as an employer to hundreds of
local residents. Travel though Whalom Park's period of
upgrades and expansions to its eventual demise in the late
20th century. Take a walk though the remains of the park
today and see how Whalom's current condition compares to
that of other classic amusement parks that have suffered the
same fate.
The story of
Whalom Park is eerily similar to what has happened to so
many of these vanishing national treasures. 'A Time To
Reflect, The History Of Whalom Park' is, without a doubt, a
film that can be enjoyed by anyone who has an appreciation
for the social significance of the classic amusement park.
Co-winner of
the LaCoy Documentary Award, Fitchburg State College, 2005
Visions film/video festival, Fitchburg State College, 2005
Review
"I thought the film was wonderfully put
together. The editing was marvellous and the music
scores were just as good. I felt as though I were
walking through the park. What a Super Good
Documentary."
Jared Moriarty
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