Remember When Volunteer Series: Logan

​This post is part of our Remember When Volunteers Series. Museum volunteers share stories of the Museum and amusement parks. This week’s volunteer is Logan Benjamin. Logan has been volunteering with the museum since November 2014. Logan is an avid Amusement Park fan. He has operated carousels, amusement rides and has developed social media content for the museum. He operates Brass Ring Web Solutions, which can be found at https://www.brassringwny.com/ 

Logan with longtime volunteer Bev O'Neil.

​Why did you begin volunteering?
I first volunteered for part of volunteer hours for school. I returned in 2016 to operate the carousels with a passion for the museum and the history of the amusement industry. In 2018, I expanded into becoming a social media partner for the museum. I develop amusement related content for the museum that is posted to Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. I use the experience from my company, Brass Ring Web Solutions, to help out the museum in any way I can.
Favorite Carrousel Museum Experience
As a guest, my first visit ever was probably the most exciting. When I went on the carousel, I found out that it had a Spinning Cup/ Lover’s Tub. Can you guess where I sat?
As a volunteer, every time I volunteer is a great experience!
Favorite Exhibit in the Museum
My favorite exhibit(s) happen to be our 1916 Number One Special Carrousel, with its remarkable historic Value to Western New York, and the always bright, vibrant, and FUN Kiddieland Testing Park.
What’s your favorite fun facts about carousels?
My favorite fun facts about the carrousels are the transitional periods between the use of wooden, metallic, and fiberglass materials for horses.
Why should people come to the museum?
People should come to the museum to learn about the importance of how Allan Herschell was a pioneer of the amusement industry. The innovations and concepts that we see today would not be able to exist without the contributions of Allan Herschell.
What is a favorite memory of an amusement park or carousel?
While there are too many to count, there was a particular day at Fantasy Island that was nothing short of wet and dreary, but epically fun. My family and I may have been the only guests in the park and became drenched in the heaviest rain I’ve ever experienced. Nevertheless, I managed to marathon the Silver Comet (wooden rollercoaster) and the rare Over the Falls thrill ride. It was pure insanity!