I got this note from Tricia Vita, administrative director of the Coney Island History Project about all the excitement surrounding the Coney Island Bell, which was raised from the ocean floor by diver Gene Ritter on September 3, 2009.
She writes: "Yesterday was just wonderful. It was my favorite day of the entire
season. Everyone felt so happy and optimistic. After each person rang
the bell, everyone would spontaneously cheer. I hope the bell brings
Coney Island good luck! We're going to need it."
"This following set of photos was taken on Sept. 5, the first day of the Bell's
display at the Coney Island History Project. and its second day on land
in 98 years!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/27583836@N08/sets/72157622271706420/
"The
historic Coney Island Bell which once welcomed visitors on Dreamland's
iron pier was raised from the ocean floor by diver Gene Ritter on Sept.
3 after nearly 100 years underwater. The Bell will be on special
exhibition Labor Day weekend (Sat-Mon) 1-6pm and next weekend (Sept
12-13) 2-6pm at the History Project under the Cyclone roller coaster.
Also on view will be period photos of Dreamland and the Bell. For more info visit http://www.coneyislandhistory.org/news/?p=203
"A
hose system was set up to keep the Bell constantly wet since it has
been underwater for 98 years!. The Bell has its original ringer and
people are invited to "Be a Part of History…Ring the Bell!" ($1
donation toward preservation efforts)
"Gene Ritter, the diver who
found and raised the Bell, has brought it to the History Project to be
displayed for the next two weekends. Gene is a Coney Island native and
diver whose group "Cultural Research Divers" puts on educational
programs for school kids at schools, the pier etc. www.researchdivers.org/
"Beginning
today (Sunday), Gene will also have other artifacts found at the
Dreamland pier dive site such as bottles, china, lamps etc. on display.
(see photos) Diving equipment will also be on view for people to see
or try on."
beyond awesome! I’m so proud of my brother!
This is GRAND!
Thanks for helping to get the word out, Louise. We expect a very busy Labor Day today in Coney Island.
If anyone reading this is away for the holiday please come out next weekend to Ring the Bell and attend the free Parachute: Coney Island Performance Festival at the Aquarium! Most attractions in Coney Island remain open for several weekends after Labor Day. Only the beach season officially comes to a close and Thor Equities temporary amusement area (“Dreamland Park” which had 12 rides) on the former Astroland site will close.
The Cyclone roller coaster is open weekends through Sept 20. Deno’s Wonder Wheel Park (22 rides), McCullough’s kiddie park (12 rides), Eldorado Bumper Cars, 12 Street Amusements remain open weekends through October. The Coney Island USA Sideshow and Museum also remain open. Of course the Aquarium is open year round. Visit the CIDC’s http://www.coneyislandfunguide for events and info.