Coasting in the Clouds

"I grew up in Carbondale and spent many summers at Newton lake. The rollercoaster was only one ride of many in a great amusement park.

Under the coaster was a miniature railroad with twists and turns and a tunnel. A steam locomotive powered the train which seemed to run non-stop on summer nights. In addition, the park had many other great rides and amusement stands. A free picnic grove was situated on the park property for all to enjoy. It was free and never littered. Families would attend in large numbers on Saturday and Sunday but you would find many tables occupied any summer evening. When not enjoying the park the families were swimming in the lake which had a beautiful beach next to the park. It was one of those places we can only tell our children about. Parents knew their children were safe, anywhere. Kids just enjoyed being kids.

Sad to say the park fell into disrepair after the owners died and no one wanted to run what I believe was not a big money maker. The rides were dismantled and the land cleared many years ago. If I had to guess, I would put the closing of the park somewhere around 1960."
- Phil