Bidders gathered at the Edaville Railroad auction, showcasing the theme park's attractions.
Edaville Railroad, a cherished family theme park in Massachusetts, held a significant auction to sell various amusement rides. The auction attracted over 100 attendees, including property owners and park operators, highlighting the community’s interest in preserving Edaville’s legacy. Iconic items, like a vintage carousel, were sold as part of a strategic rebranding that prepares the park for King Richard’s Faire in late 2025. This transition marks the end of an era for Edaville, emphasizing nostalgia among visitors while opening doors to new experiences.
Carver, Massachusetts – Edaville Railroad, a beloved family theme park that has served the community for over seven decades, held a significant auction on Wednesday to sell off a variety of amusement rides and attractions. This auction marks the beginning of changes at Edaville, which plans to transition into a new phase as it prepares for the arrival of King Richard’s Faire in late 2025.
The auction attracted more than 100 attendees, including commercial property owners and park operators, indicating strong interest in the memorabilia from the historic theme park. Items available for bidding included an iconic carousel from 1986, which fetched $90,000, purchased by Scott Sauchuk, the owner of Sauchuk’s Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch located about 10 miles away.
Sauchuk’s plan is to have the vintage carousel ready for operation by mid-September, coinciding with the opening of his pumpkin patch. The nostalgic connection to Edaville was evident, as Sauchuk reflected on the park’s significance in the community and its long-standing relationship with families over the years.
The auction featured a wide range of attractions that contributed to Edaville’s charm, including Flying Turtles, Crazy Bus, Willy the Whale, several Ferris wheels, and approximately 20 animated dinosaurs. One participant humorously noted her intention to place a dinosaur behind her hot tub for a fun touch. The auction lasted around 2 hours and 12 minutes, allowing bidders ample time to secure their desired pieces of Edaville history.
Edaville Railroad first opened its doors in 1947 and quickly became a staple of family entertainment in the region. As times have changed, the park faced pressures to modernize and adapt, leading to the decision to auction off its rides. The sale of these attractions is part of a strategic rebranding plan for Edaville, moving ahead as King Richard’s Faire prepares to establish its presence in the park’s location beginning in August 2025.
King Richard’s Faire, which has been a regional favorite for over 40 years, is set to introduce a vibrant Renaissance-themed experience, running from late August until mid-October. The faire promises an array of world-class entertainment, artisan marketplaces, and engaging activities for visitors. This new direction marks a significant change for Edaville, which still plans to continue its annual Christmas Festival of Lights among other seasonal events.
In preparation for this transformation, Edaville will enhance its food, entertainment, and shopping offerings, aiming to create an enriched experience for guests as the park evolves. The rides and attractions sold during the auction are required to be removed from the premises by May 15, signaling a definitive end to the current chapter of Edaville Railroad.
The closure of Edaville as a traditional amusement park has prompted mixed feelings among the community. While many look forward to the exciting new activities that King Richard’s Faire will bring, there is a sense of nostalgia for the cherished memories made at Edaville. As the park transitions, it is evident that both nostalgia and excitement coexist among former visitors and new guests.
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