Joyland Amusement Park, Decatur, Illinois. (1954 to 1960)

Notice the Swingin' Gym ride on the far right.

Joyland Amusement Park in Nelson Park (Lakeshore Drive and South 22nd Street) was a small, independent amusement park owned and operated by Leroy Schrader and his wife, Nellie. 

On the left is the Rocket Ride.

Single ride tickets were 5¢ and 10¢. For $2.50, you could get an all-day pass. 

The park featured a merry-go-round, a Ferris wheel, a Tilt-a-Whirl, a Rocket Ride, pony rides, and a miniature train. The Igloo-shaped concession stand was popular to cool off from the summer heat.

Joyland was best described as a permanent carnival that pops up in parking lots and churches in the summer. Little kids loved this park. In 1960 the park sold its equipment because the park district didn't have the funds to repair the rides or operate the park any longer.

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.