Spinning and dipping, Minnesota fairgoers delight in the classic Tilt-A-Whirl ride as it turns 100

Spinning and dipping, Minnesota fairgoers delight in the classic Tilt-A-Whirl ride as it turns 100 FALCON HEIGHTS, Minn., Screams and giggles filled the air at the Minnesota State Fair as visitors reveled in the classic Tilt-A-Whirl ride, celebrating its centennial anniversary. The ride, known for its unpredictable twists and spins, drew crowds eager to experience its enduring charm. Riders described the sensation as thrilling, with some calling it their favorite attraction at the fair. The Tilt-A-Whirl, which made its debut at the Minnesota State Fair in 1926, has remained a staple of county and state fairs across the United States. Its unique design allows each car to move independently, creating a dynamic and sometimes chaotic ride. This year marked the ride's 100th anniversary, drawing special attention from longtime fans and new riders alike. Valerie Nelson, a Minnesota native, recalled her childhood memories of the ride, having ridden it during the 1970s. She expressed excitement at seeing it again, noting how much it had meant to her over the years. “It’s my favorite ride forever and ever,” she said. “Whenever I see it, I try to get on. I love the spin when it pushes you back into the chair.” Her companion, Sherri Gray, echoed similar sentiments, stating that the Tilt-A-Whirl was her preferred ride at the fair. Younger visitors also found joy in the ride. Samuel Mishek, a seven-year-old from Minneapolis, rode the Tilt-A-Whirl twice in one day, describing the experience as exhilarating. “I like when there’s little bumps because you can get ready and you know when it’s going to turn really fast,” he said. His enthusiasm highlighted the ride’s appeal across generations. The Tilt-A-Whirl’s origins trace back to the early 20th century. According to the Rice County Historical Society, the ride was invented by Herbert Sellner, an engineer from Faribault, Minnesota. Initially, Sellner attempted to create a water-based amusement ride featuring spinning boats, but the project was ruined by a storm. His brother, Martin Sellner, suggested a land-based alternative, leading to the creation of the Tilt-A-Whirl. Jenna Nelson, a curator at the Rice County Historical Society, explained that the ride’s durability stems from its innovative design. Only approximately 1,000 cars were ever produced, and the core components remain largely unchanged. “It really has stood the test of time in terms of how they machined it,” she noted. The ride continues to operate using seven individual motors arranged in a circular pattern, with gravity playing a key role in its motion. Thomas Lauthier, a ride operator who has managed the Tilt-A-Whirl at the Minnesota State Fair for 12 years, emphasized the ride’s popularity among Midwesterners. He described how the Tilt-A-Whirl has become more than just an attraction, it’s a cherished part of community traditions. Many families have passed down the experience of riding the Tilt-A-Whirl through generations. Mike Pream-Anderson, a Minneapolis native, shared how the ride has been a family tradition. “As long as I can remember, when I was young my parents and my grandparents took me to the fair, we rode the Tilt-A-Whirl every time,” he said. “We love to bring our kids and do the same thing.” The ride’s significance extends beyond entertainment, serving as a link to shared memories and cultural heritage. Visitors like friends Riley Lovett and Molly Rossbach reflected on their experiences with the ride, expressing nostalgia and excitement. They described feeling butterflies in their stomachs as they boarded, recalling past rides with fondness. Upon learning the ride had reached its 100th year, Lovett celebrated with a high-five, while Rossbach exclaimed, “Happy birthday Tilt-A-Whirl!” Their reaction underscored the deep connection many people feel toward the ride.