Midway Kiddieland, Spring Valley, Illinois. (1946-1972)

Midway Kiddieland was a small amusement park located in Spring Valley, Illinois. 

"The Steel Brothers Shows" (Harry and Frank), from the early-1900s to mid-1960s, was a traveling carnival company that opened the "Midway Kiddieland" with carnival rides. Midway Kiddieland became known for its family-friendly rides, such as the 3-across carousel, a Ferris wheel, and a simple kiddie train. The park also had several games of chance, food stands, and an area for parents to wait and watch their children.

More new rides and attractions were added in 1950, including a roller coaster and bumper cars. The park offered a "Kiddieland Club" membership program, which gave members discounts on rides and food.

The park featured a variety of rides and attractions, including a golf putting course, aka miniature golf. It also had several games and food stands. Midway Kiddieland was for preschoolers and young children.

By the 1970s, Midway Kiddieland was beginning to show its age. The park's rides were outdated, and the entire park needed repair and a massive renovation. By 1978, the Steel Brothers Shows decided to close the park and focus on their traveling carnival business.

The demolition of Midway Kiddieland in 1978 marked the end of an era for the Spring Valley community. Small family-oriented amusement parks like Midway Kiddieland began to fail as the neighborhood changed and no longer had many young children.

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.