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This episode is brought to you by New Vue. New Vue is a team of attractions experts providing an ‘all-in-one’ reporting suite for attractions businesses. Their reporting solution empowers attraction leaders to make well-informed decisions, based on real-time data. New Vue also build slick websites that elevate your digital guest experience and provide strategic support to help you with booking systems and all of your IT needs.

Jim Futrell is the Historian for the National Amusement Park Historical Association and IAAPA. With over 40 years of experience researching and preserving amusement park history, Jim has authored multiple books and articles on the subject and is recognized as a leading voice in the field. In this interview, Jim talks about amusement park history, putting context on history, and shared experiences across generations.

“One of the first watershed moments in amusement park history was the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. It gave birth to the modern amusement park industry.”

Jim discussed how the exposition introduced the Midway Plaisance, which became a blueprint for amusement parks worldwide. Attractions like the Ferris wheel captivated visitors, and the fair’s profitability from entertainment inspired park developers to embrace thrilling rides and immersive environments. Jim highlights key moments, such as the development of John Miller’s under-friction wheel in 1919, which revolutionized roller coaster safety and design. This innovation allowed coasters to evolve from scenic rides to thrilling centerpieces of amusement parks. According to Jim, these milestones laid the foundation for the resilient and ever-evolving amusement park industry we know today.

“Being a true historian isn’t just memorizing facts—it’s about contextualizing them within a broader framework.”

Jim emphasized how understanding historical context deepens our appreciation of amusement parks. For instance, he explored how global events like World War I and II transformed the industry. After World War II, the rise of suburbanization and interstate highways shifted parks from urban centers to sprawling suburban attractions, such as Disneyland. He also shared examples of how past myths about the industry, such as Disney's alleged detachment from IAAPA or the history of Blackpool Pleasure Beach’s membership, were debunked through diligent research. For Jim, the essence of amusement park history lies in connecting these moments to broader societal changes.

“Amusement parks are one of the few places where you can share the same experience across generations.”

Jim passionately described how amusement parks enable families to create multi-generational memories. He shared a personal story about how his family has ridden Kings Island’s carousel for six generations, underscoring the industry’s ability to preserve nostalgia while remaining relevant to new audiences. Jim noted that balancing tradition with innovation is critical for parks. They must honor iconic attractions while introducing new experiences that resonate with modern guests. For example, parks like Knoebels and Kennywood have thrived by preserving their history and making forward-thinking investments.

Jim Futrell’s dedication to preserving amusement park history offers valuable insights into how the industry’s past shapes its future. To connect with Jim directly, you can reach him on LinkedIn or Facebook. To learn more about the National Amusement Park Historical Association and IAAPA, visit their websites.

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