When Busch Gardens Williamsburg first opened its gates in 1975, one of the rides greeting guests was a classic Eli Bridge Scrambler originally known as "The Catapult." Over the decades, Le Catapult has shifted locations within the park and has carried a few similar names, but its familiar motion and family-friendly appeal kept it a favorite. Generations of guests grew up riding it, often as one of their first “big rides” before braving the park’s larger coasters.
In 2024, the attraction received a refresh with brand-new tubs, giving new life to this long-running classic. Nearly 50 years after its debut, Le Catapult is still operating and delighting riders just as it did in 1975!
09/23/2025
Today we uncovered history from a park that is often overlooked, White Swan Park in Pittsburgh PA. The park operated from 1955-1989. This sign was pictured inside the arcade (link below). After the plans for the Greater Pittsburgh Airport were solidified, the park was purchased by the Pennsylvania Department Of Transportation and the rides were sold off. Many of them still operate across the US to this day including the pony track ride at Memphis Kiddie Park!
If you want to learn more about the park, follow the links below!
8/2/2023
Our largest and most exciting acquisition is a pair of Swingin' Gyms from Sauzers Kiddieland in Schererville Indiana that we have fully restored to safe operating condition. We acquired them from a family that lived near the park and couldn't stand to see the attraction end up in the the scrap heap. We have named the ride in the honor of John and Kim who were the previous owners and had a very personal connection with the ride and park. This photo was the last photo before the ride was dismantled and restored.