Skyrocket Roller Coaster at Ocean View Park in Norfolk, Virginia
Vintage postcards from amusements parks were the social media posts of their times. The one cent cards would be mailed to friends and family regaling them on the amazing times the vacationers were having. Early 20th Century FOMO, right?
This particular postcard features a night view of the Skyrocket roller coaster. The Roller Coaster Database lists the Skyrocket Jr. coaster at the Ocean View Amusement Park. The construction supervisor is listed as Rudy Illions and the concessionaire was John Clark. Not much else is listed about the wooden coaster that began operation in 1949.
According to Wikipedia, the coaster has a much more interesting origin and history.
A large wooden roller coaster was always the centerpiece and primary attraction at the park. First built around the turn of the 20th century, the original coaster was known as The Southern Belle. Some time later, after an extensive re-design, it was named Leap The Dips. The final design was a much speedier and thrilling coaster, called The Skyrocket. Shortly before its final demise, the name was abbreviated to The Rocket for use in the role it played in two Hollywood feature films. —Wikipedia
The original coaster was built in 1927 and designed by famed designer Edward Vettel. After a fire in 1958, Herbert Schmeck stepped in to rebuild it.
Yes, the coaster was featured in Roller Coaster, a major Hollywood film that inspired the founding of the America Coaster Enthusiast group. By the way, you need to check out Roller Coaster solely for the historic footage of Kings Dominion and Six Flags Magic Mountain.
Back of the Skyrocket Postcard
From the back of the postcard, which was sent to New Jersey:
OCEAN VIEW, NORFOLK, VA.
This resort within easy access of N… [Norfolk Marina?] and Newport News is one of the most …[illegible] Atlantic Coast. Here are found the noted Norfolk spots which offer the greatest fishing sport obtainable. Excellent trolley service is maintained throughout the entire year.
[Handwritten] We’re just in from Ocean View Park, took the children over tonight to take in the rides. They’re having a wonderful time but [I?]miss my baby too. Much to [really?] enjoy it.
Sincerely,
I love collecting vintage postcards of amusement parks, especially when there is a note on the back to family and friends. It brings a bit of personality and hostly to the card.
There are some wonderful computer simulations of the front seat Point Of View experience of this ride to be found on YouTube.