Roller coaster enthusiasts across the nation are celebrating the fact that Carolina Crossroads, Dolly and Randy Parton’s new theme park in Roanoke Rapids, won the auction to save the Zippin Pippin from the failed Libertyland in Memphis. Formerly known as "the Pippin", the 1923 wooden coaster is one of the oldest standing coasters in the country. The 70′ tall, 1:30 minute ride which reaches 40mph was made by the legendary Philadelphia Toboggan Company. It’s known for being rough and having great air time, especially for riders in the train’s rear seats.
The ride was Elvis Presley’s favorite ride and in 1977 he rented out Libertyland to entertain 10 guests one night. During the night he rode the coaster for 2 hours straight. Unfortunately it was his last public appearance as he died 8 days later. More photos of the ride and the sadly abandoned Libertyland are at this page.
(Yeah, this isn’t necessarily a Raleigh proper entry, however it shows just how desperate we are for a theme park and a coaster anywhere near here. Carolina Crossroads will be about an hour and a half away from us, but it isn’t close enough.)
Oooooh, fun! The Pippin reminds me of the Scream Machine at Six Flags Over Georgia. The back car of that ride is amazing.
I grew up in Atlanta, and Six Flags was a summer tradition–truly one of the highlights of being a kid for me. I really do wish we had some parks closer to us.
Wonder if Philadelphia Toboggan made the Scream Machine, too? Hmmm, off to “The Google” (a la Bush) now to find out….
Being from Memphis, I rolled the Zippin Pippin many times. What it lacked in size and speed, it made up with sketchy maintenance and stoned ride operators. The uncertainty was definitely thrilling.
air time and Dolly….
Thanks Dana!
I rode the Zippin Pipin in aug of 1998 and only to say I had rode the coaster Elvis rode. Liked it alot