Dick's [Richard Bell] Amusement Park, Bloomington, Illinois. (1955-1965)

Richard Bell, a young Black man, was a self-taught business man and entrepreneur. He bought a farm in Bloomington, Illinois where he raised hogs, popcorn, and soybeans for many years. Next he bought and operated an auto body repair shop. He employed a number of young men, black and white, to who he taught important job skills.

In 1955 Dick opened "Dick's Amusement Park" in Forest Park in Bloomington. The amusement park had a merry-go-round, Ferris wheel, a coal-fueled miniture train, pony rides in an enclosed track, a playground and a concession stand. He closed the park in 1965 and sold off all the rides.

Compiled by Neil Gale, Ph.D.