Kiddyland Amusement Park, East Dundee, Illinois. (1953-1960); Funland Kiddie Park, East Dundee, Illinois. (1961-1972)

Funland Kiddie Park was located in East Dundee. It was south of Santa’s Village, both of which were located on Illinois Route 25. It opened in 1959. 

A lot of people called this place Kiddyland (or Kiddieland). This park was the original local amusement park. It was also inexpensive. The park started on the east side of Route 25. After one season, it was moved to the west side of the road. When the park closed in 1972, the land was used for a Chevrolet dealership.

One of the most popular rides was the hand cars, also known as the pedal cars. It was a grand day when you got the strength to ride one by yourself. Even experienced riders got stuck. There was an employee who would come to the rescue.

The first ride a person saw were the train, a caged Ferris wheel, and a larger Ferris wheel. You would have to cross the train tracks to get to the entrance. The train went around the perimeter and through a shed. It was an open-type train, and a uniformed engineer sat on top. The train was stored in another shed on the property.

Sometimes, people went just for one of the Ferris wheels. Birthday parties were held here too. Others went for the other rides, such as the roller coaster. The Bozo Show’s Sandy the Clown and Ring Master Ned made an appearance too. 

The park closed in 1972.

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.

Hasting's Bathing Beach and Amusement Park, Fox Lake, Illinois. (1885-1963)

Hasting's Bathing Beach and Amusement Park was a popular summer destination in Fox Lake, Illinois. The park was initially named "Hasting's Grove." It was located on the shores of Fox Lake and offered various attractions, including a swimming beach, a dance hall, a roller coaster, and a Ferris wheel.

The park was founded by John Hastings in 1885. Hastings was a local businessman who owned a lumber mill on the shores of Fox Lake. He saw the potential for a summer resort on the lake and opened Hasting's Bathing Beach in 1885.

The swimming beach was a major draw, and the park also offered a variety of other activities, such as boating, fishing, and picnicking. In the early 1900s, the park added several amusement rides, including a roller coaster, a Ferris wheel, a carousel, and a midway with food concessions and games.

This photo is a visual aid.

Hasting's Bathing Beach and Amusement Park reached its peak popularity in the 1920s and early 1940s. The park was open from Memorial Day to Labor Day each year, attracting visitors from all over Chicagoland.

However, the park began to decline in popularity after World War II. The rise of television and other forms of entertainment led to a decline in attendance at amusement parks. Hasting's Bathing Beach and Amusement Park closed for good in 1963.

The park is now a residential development, but the swimming beach is still open to the public. The beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing.

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.

Gould Amusement Park, Morris, Illinois. (1903-1967)

Gould Amusement Park was a popular amusement park in Morris, Illinois. The park was located on the banks of the Illinois River and was named after its owner, William Gould.

The park was founded by William Gould, a local businessman. Gould purchased a 60-acre plot of land on the riverfront in 1903 and began the construction of the park the following year. The park opened in 1904, featuring a variety of rides and attractions, including a roller coaster, a carousel, and a petting zoo. There was also a dance hall, a swimming pool, and a hotel with a restaurant on the grounds.

Gould Park was a popular destination for families, and it hosted various events throughout the year, including picnics, dances, concerts, school and day camp field trips, and company picnics. The park also hosted several special events, such as the annual Morris Firemen's Carnival and a few professional wrestling matches.

The park hosted famous entertainers, including Al Jolson, Sophie Tucker, and the Andrews Sisters.

Gould Park's popularity declined rapidly in the 1960s as people began to travel to larger amusement parks. Gould Amusement Park closed in 1967 after 64 years of operation. 

The park sold its rides. Today, the nature park is called Goold Park

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.