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Animals

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Animals

Meet The Animals

The Johnson family invites you to share in the delight that Adonnis will bring to carousel riders. Adonnis was adopted in honor of Johnson's granddaughter, Ahzha, who provided the specific details to make certain that the finished animal would look like the one she leased, rode, and trained. The stable in Corvallis where Adonnis lived is pleased that their animal is part of the carousel. This handsome horse is a dark, dappled gray Arabian with a flowing mane and sweeping tail. He wears a light blue saddle blanket with a scalloped edge trimmed in gold. His light brown saddle has a dark blue skirt with symbols of the sun, moon, and star. Pink roses trim the saddle skirt and there are red rosettes on his bridle. Adonnis is a middle-row jumper on the carousel. He is one of the three animals the Johnsons adopted for their three grandchildren.

Adonnis, the Arabian Horse- sponsored by Peter and Rosalie Johnson

Adonnis, the Arabian Horse- sponsored by Peter and Rosalie Johnson

Angel is an elegant and exquisite peacock laced with special meaning and memories. The name “Angel” is a reference to the sponsor’s last name, which is German for the word “angel”. Angel is an alternate outside-row animal. Doug and Karen's love of carnival glass makes a glorious display on this animal. The bright iridescent colors on the peacock represent the many colors available in carnival glass. Peacock patterns are very prevalent in carnival glass, many being quite rare, beautiful, and highly collectible. Angel's saddle blanket is a fern and butterfly design, based on vintage carnival glass pieces. Carnival glass rose designs can be found on the saddle. Symbolizing Karen’s fondest for hummingbirds, one can be seen playfully riding along the side of the saddle. Karen lost her battle with cancer on September 11, 2016. She had been a member of the Albany Historic Carousel Board of Directors since the Carousel's inception and served as Treasurer until her illness prevented her from continuing. Many years ago, Karen’s friends presented her with a golden angel pin. A beautiful version of that pin can be seen on Angel’s breastplate along with Karen’s name and the names of her friends.

Angel, the Peacock- sponsored by Doug and Karen Engel

Angel, the Peacock- sponsored by Doug and Karen Engel

The Band Organ was sponsored by the Engel's to honor two long-time friends and carnival glass enthusiasts, Dale Matheny and George Thomas. They all loved music. The organ was designed to encapsulate and honor love and friendship throughout Doug and Karen's life. Carnival glass, which they have collected since the 1970s, inspired many of the designs such as the ferns, peacocks, roses, and poppies. A painting of the “Cathey House", one of Albany's beautiful historic houses, and Doug and Karen's home, is prominently featured on the front of the music box. The birds represent two hummingbirds that come to the home year around. The angel broach on the front is a copy of a pin Karen was fond of and wore frequently. Their love of music will continue to be enjoyed by all who visit the carousel and listen to the Organ Music Box.

Band Organ- sponsored by Doug and Karen Engel

Band Organ- sponsored by Doug and Karen Engel

"Tyger Tyger burning bright, In the forests of the night"….so begins a famous poem penned in 1794 by William Blake. Reminded of this poem, carousel carvers named this magnificent jungle animal "Blake.” Blake wears no saddle or bridle, appropriate for a wild Bengal tiger. Hidden in the stripes toward his flank on the romance side, are the names of the sponsors’ grandchildren, Andrew and Caitlin. He is a jumper animal located on the inside row of the carousel.

Blake, the Tiger- sponsored by Barbara and Herbert Jenkins

Blake, the Tiger- sponsored by Barbara and Herbert Jenkins

Buck, the carousel horse, is dedicated to Carol Bellon Lagerstedt and was sponsored by her husband Harry. Buck was also a real wild horse that was broken to saddle by Carol’s father, Xavier Bellon, a cattleman in southern Utah. Carol grew up with stories about Buck, who later became a famous cutting horse. Carol and Harry were married for 59 years before cancer took her in 2011, at age 80. They have four daughters and one son. Carol grew up in Roosevelt, UT, and graduated from Utah State University with a degree in Home Economics. She taught Home Economics at Eddyville High School for several years and then became a fantastic homemaker, caring for her growing family. Carol was an accomplished seamstress and made clothes for all the children throughout grade and high school. She made hundreds of quilts and held quilting classes for friends and church members. Thus, Buck’s saddle blanket is a quilt, and the squares of the quilt display some of her other interests: • Carol’s favorite bird, a Magpie, which was very common where she grew up. • A Christmas tree represents the Christmas tree farm we owned. • A peach and a filbert represent the orchards that we planted, pruned, and cultivated, and the fruit and nuts we harvested, sorted, and sold. Roasted filberts and filbert brittle were some of her specialties. She made many different kinds of candies and chocolates and held yearly candy-making classes. • A canning jar depicts all the many fruits and vegetables that she canned and froze each year. • One square depicts a crossword puzzle, a challenge Carol enjoyed almost every morning during breakfast. This crossword puzzle contains all our family names. • A quill pen represents Carol’s many years of service to the LDS Church. With no background in French, she mastered French genealogical record extraction, which involves deciphering centuries-old French church records, which had been written with quill pens by many different scribes.

Buck, the Horse- sponsored by Harry Lagerstedt

Buck, the Horse- sponsored by Harry Lagerstedt

Bucky, the white-tailed deer, is an impressive 5-point buck. Bucky is modeled after an 11-inch tall carving created by Gary’s grandfather, Irving Phillip Miller, who was nicknamed Bucky. As an inside row animal, the deer is posed in a jumping position, reflecting speed and agility. A brown blanket with a basket-weave border adorns the saddle area. A gray and white miniature Schnauzer named Misty is tucked under the back corner of the blanket. A family pet, Misty, wears a US flag patterned scarf, representing the family’s patriotism, and a pink collar with a bone-shaped nametag. On the romance, or outside of the horse, a wooden medallion hangs in the middle of the blanket which contains the family names, Miller and Meyer, and the name of their son, Roe. The names surround a Pontiac Indian Head based on an original pattern carved by I.P. Miller for the Pontiac Foundry. There is also a roll of carving tools hanging from Bucky’s shoulder, reflecting the family’s love of woodworking, and containing a single Rose, representing their granddaughter. On the non-romance side is a farm bell like the ones used by both families to call them home.

Bucky, the White-Tailed Deer- sponsored by Gary and Joanne Miller

Bucky, the White-Tailed Deer- sponsored by Gary and Joanne Miller

Caballo Regalado is a Christmas gift to the Carousel. The Greenwells had a long history of ranching in the Ogden, Utah area. Dian’s great grandfather, both of her grandfathers, and her father were well known for their horsemanship. Dian and her daughter, Nicole Thompson, continued the tradition as well-known and successful equestrians in the Dressage Society of Oregon. This beautiful Christmas Clydesdale is an outside row stander and will make an appearance on the carousel during the Christmas and winter seasons. There will be no mistaking this gentle giant with his black mane, flowing tail, and white socks and feathers. He wears a black and brass harness with a small green pad as if he is ready to pull a Christmas Sleigh. For the holiday season, he sports a large red and gold bow on his tail and small sprigs of holly on his harness and bridle. Brass bells are attached to his collar and the Greenwell logo (a wishing well) is on the medallion on his chest. Caballo Regalado represents warm memories and the spirit of Christmas. He is a special gift to all his riders during the holiday season.

Caballo Regaldo, the Gift Horse (A Christmas Clydesdale)- sponsored by Dian Gerstner and the Greenwell Family Foundation

Caballo Regaldo, the Gift Horse (A Christmas Clydesdale)- sponsored by Dian Gerstner and the Greenwell Family Foundation

Loretta Pierson chose to adopt the Cayuse pony to honor Albany and the stories of pioneers and indigenous people who lived here. This pretty pony was named Calapooia after the Calapooia River that flows near downtown Albany. The word Calapooia comes from the Kalapuya Indians who lived along the river throughout the Willamette Valley. The Cayuse ponies were actually native to areas of Eastern Oregon. They were small, sturdy, and spirited horses known to be hardworking and dependable. Feather adornment, osprey, and salmon decorate this middle row jumper that proudly represents Native Americans of our region. His blue bedroll is typical of the blankets that were traded with the Indians. A Celtic knot with an amethyst center located on the headband of the bridle represents the Pierson family's heritage. Albany's rich history is represented by pictures of brothers Walter and Thomas Monteith on canteens hanging from Calapooia's saddle. In 1847, the Monteiths built their home on land located at the confluence of the Calapooia and Willamette Rivers. It is said they bought the land from an earlier settler "for $400 and a Cayuse pony". The Monteith House, located just one block south of the Carousel, was the first frame house built in Albany and today is a carefully restored memorial to our pioneer ancestors and the spirit that brought them to Oregon.

Calapooia, the Cayuse Indian Pony- sponsored by Loretta Pierson

Calapooia, the Cayuse Indian Pony- sponsored by Loretta Pierson

This blue and gold chariot is an elaborately decorated bench seat sponsored by Shirley Brennan. It is a memorial to her son, Gregory Mark Brennan, who died in 2010. It can accommodate those who wish to sit as they experience the carousel ride rather than climbing aboard an animal. Several precious cats are climbing around this chariot. A tabby cat at the front of the chariot is sitting on a ribbon marked Greg. A tuxedo cat behind the seat is sitting on a ribbon marked Shirley. The orange tabby lounging over the top of the chariot and the black and white tuxedo behind the seat are based on cats owned by the sponsor and her son. A calico kitten plays with the gray tabby's tail and a Siamese is curled up asleep at the back of the chariot. Hibiscus flowers set on a blue background act as additional adornment on the chariot. The arch of the chariot has sheet music from the song, "Sway.”

Cat Chariot- sponsored Shirley Brennan and her son, Greg

Cat Chariot- sponsored Shirley Brennan and her son, Greg

Lee always referred to this horse as a "cavalry mount". Named Cheyenne, he races full speed around the inside row of the carousel as if carrying his rider across the prairie. He is a buckskin horse with a black mane and tail. Cheyenne is an accurate representation of an 1870s-era cavalry horse ridden by the U.S. Army. His saddle carries a bed roll, a saddlebag, canteen, and a military sword. His dark blue saddle blanket is edged in gold.<br><br>This military horse is now a memorial to Lee who died August 13, 2013 and his wife Peg who died May 25, 2014. They both worked on Cheyenne, Lee helped carve and Peg helped with the painting. The only personalization added by the Bridgeman's is a silver oak leaf on the saddle representing Lee's USAF Lieutenant Colonel (retired) rank.

Cheyenne, the Cavalry Horse- sponsored by Lee and Peg Bridgeman

Cheyenne, the Cavalry Horse- sponsored by Lee and Peg Bridgeman

Sponsors Peter and Rosalie Johnson adopted this salmon for their grandson Bryce who enjoys fishing. Named "Chinook" for his resemblance to the mighty Chinook or King Salmon that are native to the West Coast, he swims around the middle row of the carousel. King Salmon are large, strong and hard-fighting fish. It is an awesome experience to fish for these wonderful creatures. Our Chinook is bright red with a hooked jaw – signs he is headed upstream to spawn in one of the many Oregon rivers. Each of his scales was individually hand carved to add to the authenticity of the animal. Can you guess how many there are? A strand of seaweed is caught in Chinook's mouth. A dragonfly flutters between a water lily on his back and a yellow lotus at his side. Did you notice the frog jumping near Chinook’s tail?

Chinook, the Salmon- sponsored by Peter and Rosalie Johnson

Chinook, the Salmon- sponsored by Peter and Rosalie Johnson

Chipper is a free-standing floor statue. He is the News Beaver for the carousel's newsletter. He represents symbols of the State of Oregon and was donated in the name of Southern Willamette Dentists. Chipper will welcome visitors to the carousel building. He is a reddish-brown beaver standing on a gnawed tree stump. He sports a buck-toothed smile and has a Meadowlark, Oregon’s state bird, perched upon his left paw. The tree stump is adorned with Oregon Grape, the state flower, and the Oregon State Seal. The dental profession is represented by a tooth fairy seated on mushrooms. She wears a blue dress and has pretty blue wings. In her hand, she has a wand with a tooth on the end. A toothbrush and a partially squeezed tube of toothpaste is hidden on the far side of the stump to keep Chipper's chompers healthy.

Chipper, the News Beaver- sponsored by Dr. Fred & Karen Mueller and Mueller Implants and Periodontics

Chipper, the News Beaver- sponsored by Dr. Fred & Karen Mueller and Mueller Implants and Periodontics

The real Cricket was a gentle and patient horse owned and loved by Frances Sweet. Her dad had bought the 28-year-old horse for her brother- but her brother wasn't particularly interested so she traded him a movie camera for the horse and took possession. She was not yet a teenager at the time and her father wasn’t thrilled with the transaction, but eventually, he came around when he recognized how much Cricket meant to Frances. This handsome fellow is a red sorrel with white markings on all four of his legs and his face. Watching the carving of Cricket take shape was like seeing him come back to life! Daisies and buttercups are braided into Cricket's brown mane and tail, and little hearts are included on the saddle blanket and bridle. Frances remembers picking wildflowers and braiding them into Cricket's mane and tail as he grazed under an apple tree. It was a favorite tree for Frances to climb. Cricket, of course, preferred eating the apples. Frances went on to own many other horses but Cricket was always the most special. As an inside row jumper, Cricket will give riders a realistic experience prancing around the carousel.

Cricket, the Mustang, sponsored by Frances Sweet

Cricket, the Mustang, sponsored by Frances Sweet

Diane Hunsaker came home to Oregon after 17 years in California to help carve and paint Crunchy, her childhood pony, and one of the first animals adopted on the carousel. (Crunchy's sponsorship came simultaneously with Honey Bear). Mau, the Hunsaker family cat, sleeps behind Crunchy's saddle. The green saddle blanket with autumn leaves represents the love Morris Hunsaker, Diane's father, had for Oregon’s natural beauty. Crunchy was a typical Shetland pony — a bit ornery. He delighted in finding new ways to rid himself of his riders. Diane’s brother suggested that the carousel install a tree branch that would fall in front of Crunchy's passengers and sweep them out of the saddle so that they would have a more realistic experience. Potential riders will appreciate knowing this idea was rejected.

Crunchy, the Shetland Pony- sponsored by Morris & Jean Hunsaker

Crunchy, the Shetland Pony- sponsored by Morris & Jean Hunsaker

Daisy is a baby African elephant who sings as she walks around the outside row of the carousel. Her sponsorship was a gift to Gail from her husband Bob. Bob collected elephants and thought Gail would appreciate his choice! Daisy's name came from the favorite flowers used in Bob and Gail's wedding. The Mikkelson's want Daisy to depict their love and joy and bring these things and many smiles to those who see her. The little mouse perched on Daisy's trunk is called 'Mikey'. Mikey sports a dapper blue bow tie and sings enthusiastically from a red music book. You have to smile when you see these two having fun singing together and bringing happiness to the carousel. The singing animals and musical symbols on Daisy's blanket reflect the importance of music in the Mikkelsons lives and the great joy they have experienced through music. Daisy's blanket and matching headpiece are quilted with gold rope. There are daisies in each quilted square of the blanket with the first names of members of the Mikkelson family written around each flower.

Daisy, the Elephant- sponsored by Bob & Gail Mikkelson

Daisy, the Elephant- sponsored by Bob & Gail Mikkelson

Dexter, the Saint Bernard, is a middle-row jumper who represents family, tradition, and shared adventures. With his tongue dangling out of his mouth, he seems in a hurry as he beckons the family to get to their next escapade. Newspaper hats were made for all the kids in the family when they attended the Rose Festival in Portland. Dexter is wearing one of these jaunty newspaper hats that has a feather accent. This newspaper hat looks like the entertainment section of a Portland newspaper with headlines covering the highlights of an opera opening, a Florida heat wave, a zoo opening, the Rose Parade, and a museum exhibit. Dexter sports a satchel with a kitten peeking out. And since the family loved pressed pennies and has a collection of them, there is a trail of pressed pennies flowing from a rip in the satchel. Names on the pennies include Alyssa, Nate, Grace, Emma, Hammy, Titus, Abram, and Micah.

Dexter, the Saint Bernard- sponsored by Diana Watson and Amber Blaylock

Dexter, the Saint Bernard- sponsored by Diana Watson and Amber Blaylock

The elephant is sponsored by Bill Dentzel and the Dentzel family. Although not on the carousel, the animal will be located where children can climb on it. The picture you see on the blanket is the sign that once hung above Bill Dentzel's great-uncle’s shop in Philadelphia, PA.

Dentzel, the Elephant- sponsored by Bill Dentzel and the Dentzel Family

Dentzel, the Elephant- sponsored by Bill Dentzel and the Dentzel Family

This peppy pup is a near replica of his namesake, a predominantly Pekingese mixed breed adopted in 2004 by the daughter of sponsors Pamela Bennett and James Wong of Dublin, California. Jennifer named her dog after the iconic fashion brand known for eclectic and bold advertising campaigns. Diesel was a happy little rescue dog who loved people, walks, napping, and tummy rubs, and won hearts wherever he went. And oh, he could run! If there was an Olympics for dogs this guy would take the gold medal in the 100-meter sprint. Jennifer lived in Arizona and had only had him a couple months before he sprinted out the door and under the gate. He was too quick to catch. Thanks to an embedded microchip, about a year later, she received a call from animal control located a good fifty miles away. They’d found Diesel roaming the streets. It was clear he had once again escaped and had been running wild from whomever found him after he slipped away from Jennifer. A few years later, Jennifer moved from Arizona to San Francisco for a new job and was worried she couldn’t find an apartment that allowed pets. Her parents offered to help find Diesel a new home. Pamela worked at a children’s dental office where Dr. Randall Wiley had recently lost his beloved dog. Diesel was welcomed to the office, where he brought so much joy to the staff and children. It was the perfect match, allowing full time care for Diesel as well as regular visits and sleepovers for the pup at Pamela and James’s home. Years later, life circumstances changed for the Wiley family, so Pamela and James permanently had Diesel come live with them. And that’s where he stayed until it was time to say goodbye, in April 2018. Pamela and James had been interested in Albany’s carousel for years, and were rejoiced when organizers said Diesel had been chosen for the one remaining alternate spot on the inside row. Artist Terryl Whitlatch worked with the couple to create a perfect likeness of their happy little dog. He’s wearing his signature red jacket, pocket filled with a dangling leash and his favorite treats: sausage sticks and heart-shaped “cookies” from Trader Joe’s. On his collar are the names Jennifer Jo and her daughters, Élodie Jo and Chloé Jo. On the non-romance side, a flowering cactus represents Diesel’s original home in Arizona, with two shamrocks and a poppy for his home in Dublin, California. His name tag reads “Diesel” in the middle, with Pamela and James on the top and bottom. Diesel’s head is turned to smile at his many admirers and all four feet are stretched out in his favorite pose—running to find new adventures for all the children and children-at-heart whom he takes for a ride at the Albany carousel.

Diesel, the Dog- sponsored by Pamela Bennett and James Wong

Animals

Diesel, the Dog- sponsored by Pamela Bennett and James Wong

The elements depicted on the farm chariot are from the "home" place where Bun and his brother grew up in the mid-Willamette Valley. Oak trees, leaves, and acorns are all symbols of the property. The house was built in the 1870s and was known as High House. It served as a social center where horse races were run in the field by the lane on Sundays. The main floor ceilings are 14 feet high and the fireplace was brought by ship around the tip of South America. Small tree frogs live in the shrubs around the house and serenade but are rarely seen. There are two vintage barns and a windmill which give the farmyard some of its characters. The family still wonders how Bun's father erected the windmill without assistance. For years it sported an old school bell and the platform hosted grandchildren. The farm has two lakes, one of which can be seen from the house, thus the bullfrog and cattails plus wild roses grew near that lake. Since the valley is on a major flyway, a number of waterfowl visit the property seasonally. The raccoon, Ollie, had a very sweet disposition and was a much-loved pet in the 1940s. The lamb on the side is Sally. Born on the farm in the ‘60s, she was rejected by her mother and hand-raised by our family in Albany. She didn't know she was a sheep until she grew up and moved to the farm where she spent many good years and raised her own lambs, always welcoming her two-legged family for visits. The piglet on the other side is Eadie. She represents a very dear friend who collected pigs, was an avid carousel enthusiast, and was a woodcarver. Eadie's small carving tools have contributed to the carvings on this carousel for a number of years. Our family has been carousel fans since the 1960s. As a retired therapist, Jan wanted people with limitations to be able to enjoy the ride which delights so many of us. Thus, it meets ADA standards.

Farm Chariot

Farm Chariot

"Flash" represents an actual racehorse. His carved replica is an exact representation of one of the racehorses of Mueller Arabians and Hilltopp Farms. A plaque on each side holds the Mueller and farm participant names. He is a seasonal holiday animal and wears a fir branch wreath with stars, beads, and ornaments for Christmas. The ornaments represent symbols important to the family. The rose adornment on his bridle is a favorite of a co-owner, Eunice Knaggs. Flash was little but mighty, winning races and holding track records. He was loved and retired as a riding champion.

Flash, the Race Horse- sponsored by Dr. Fred & Karen Mueller

Flash, the Race Horse- sponsored by Dr. Fred & Karen Mueller

“She is foxy, svelte, a character, looks real to life, like a real fox”. This is the description given by the Daellenbachs who grew up in Minnesota and Wisconsin before moving with their 3 children to Oregon. Faye wanted to stay in one place until their children had a chance to graduate from high school. Their children, Brian, Keith, and Julie Faye have now all graduated from West Albany High School. The family settled in North Albany with a backyard full of wild roses and an occasional visit from a little red fox – the inspiration for their sponsored animal. The Daellenbachs wanted an animal that was native to the three states where they have lived and discovered that deer and fox were the only two. Since they were frequently visited by this “foxy” character the choice was rather obvious. Foxy will be seen on the carousel still roaming through the wild roses and the roses will be inscribed with the names of the Daellenbach’s five grandchildren, Michael, Alex, Faye, Kevin and Micah. Foxy also displays the Swiss Dallenbach family crest on her chest. Faye invited the whole family – 15 members – to come to the carousel at Christmas time. Faye said the grandkids were blown away by the carousel. “They all rode twice”. She did some volunteering as the carousel was being built, but does more now that it is operational. She can frequently be found leading a group of visitors through the history and stories that make the Albany carousel unique.

Foxy, the Little Red Fox: sponsored by Chuck & Faye Daellenbach

Foxy, the Little Red Fox: sponsored by Chuck & Faye Daellenbach

Fredrick is full of meaning for the Kirbey family, who adopted him in memory of Wendy’s young son, Donald Fredrick Wagner. A rabbit in this pose was a popular animal on Dentzel carousels. So Wendy thought it would be a wonderful memorial for her son who loved animals. Fredrick carries one of Donny’s favorite books, “The Chronicles of Narnia”, which is strapped to his saddle. The book's cover features the Great Lion Aslan. A daisy serves as the bookmark. Other daisies and daffodils on the rabbit's purple saddle remind Wendy of sweet memories when her children would bring bouquets of those flowers to her. Fredrick is a peaceful creature on the carousel but riders need to be ready for the adventure he has planned for them and himself!

Fredrick, the Hare: sponsored by Wendy & Gordon Kirbey

Fredrick, the Hare: sponsored by Wendy & Gordon Kirbey

Freedom is a gentle, white horse gliding around the outside row of the carousel with many little friends along for the ride. His design is intended to inspire and encourage discovery. Unfettered, with no shoes, bridle, saddle, or bit; his name is inspired by the phrase, "Freedom of Imagination". The saddle is formed from a Red-Tailed Hawk in flight. Imagine a 4 or 5-year-old with a vivid imagination getting on Freedom and pretending to fly! Other animals located on Freedom include a helpful garter snake, a fragile and colorful Monarch butterfly, an industrious squirrel, a quick wren, a bull trout swimming upstream in the mane, and a tiny tree frog enjoying the trip with the rider. All of these animals can be found in various areas of Oregon. They are partially concealed within Freedom's flowing mane and tail adding to the excitement of their discovery.

Freedom, the Horse: sponsored by Jan & Gary Goby

Freedom, the Horse: sponsored by Jan & Gary Goby

Friend is a fierce Chinese Guardian Dog. He commemorates the sponsor's son, Zachary Tyler Marsh. This beautiful animal is an outside-row replacement that will guard the place of an animal that needs to be repaired. Friend flaunts his majestic presence with his bright teal blue body and gold mane. Gold also embellishes his tail, feathering, and claws. His face sports a fierce expression allowing him to display his red mouth and white teeth while his eyes staring intently ahead. His saddle is a red and black Chinese rug. Around his neck is a loose collar with a drum and cymbals at his chest. His left front foot holds a large pearl on which the Chinese symbol for 'love' is inscribed. A small calico cat winds around his back right leg. She doesn't seem to be scared of Friend at all!

Friend, the Chinese Foo Dog: sponsored by Tala Marsh

Friend, the Chinese Foo Dog: sponsored by Tala Marsh

Watch out Shamu! Here comes Geno, the Orca Whale, sponsored in memory of beloved husband and father, Gene Tanselli. Geno swims around the carousel showing off in the middle row as if he is leaping from the water. The Tanselli family vacationed at the Oregon Coast during the years when Keiko was a star at the Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport. The Tanselli's thought that an Orca whale should be a part of the Carousel, entertaining children and families like Keiko did. All of the animals on Geno remind the Tanselli family of their trips to the Coast. A brown otter and Geno's dorsal fin make the saddle area. Sea life, including an orange starfish, a sand dollar, an octopus, and a red crab can be found in a strand of seaweed clinging to Geno's side. Gene Tanselli loved baseball, in fact he was Oregon State's baseball coach from 1966 to 1972, which is why the starfish is holding an OSU baseball. A fish swims along side Geno. This 'shiny fish' is part of the Tanselli story too because of the book, “Rainbow Fish and the Big Blue Whale” which was a favorite of the grandchildren. It tells how we can all be friends.

Geno, the Whale: sponsored by Joan Tanselli

Geno, the Whale: sponsored by Joan Tanselli

Have you ever seen a bear with eyeglasses? Meet Grizzly Berry, the inside row bear who can see you just fine thanks to his wire-rimmed spectacles. He is a brown grizzly bear with a tan muzzle and black nose and represents this family of optometrists.<br><br>The Berry's four granddaughters' names, Annie, Maggie, Molly, and Elsa, are etched into the bear's fur. In his mouth is a wicker basket containing a ruler and an apple depicting the teachers in the family. The outside of the basket is decorated with both a grouping of straw-"berries", and the optometric caduceus. The bear also carries pink ballet slippers and an eye chart as well as a block "U" for the family's Utah heritage.<br><br>The Berry's hope generations of people will enjoy taking a ride on their friendly Grizzly Berry!

Grizzly Berry, the Bear: sponsored by Merle and Carol Ann Berry and Family

Grizzly Berry, the Bear: sponsored by Merle and Carol Ann Berry and Family

Harriette the Frog is perhaps the most whimsical animal on the Carousel. She is certainly the most “ribbit-ing”. Harriette was adopted in loving memory by the family of Anna Harriette Murphy, remembered here by her surviving children, Ellyn, Evelyn, Eunice, Emelie, Elma, Elaine and Patrick. Every detail on Harriette is symbolic of some aspect of Anna H. Murphy’s life, even down to a frog being chosen to represent her.<br><br>After all, Anna had a porcelain frog collection numbering almost 200 thus making the animal a natural choice for Anna. Harriette is wearing a straw hat – something Anna always wore while gardening. In addition, Harriette has 12 tadpoles on her pinafore (six on each side) which represent each of her 12 children. The yellow rose was her favorite flower. Her purple dress is based on her favorite color.<br><br>Anna grew up during the Great Depression and, like many folks, she made her own clothes and canned fresh produce. Harriette's bloomers, like Anna's, were made out of flour sacks. And since frogs don't eat canned food, Harriette is carrying a canning jar full of fireflies. Yum. Anna loved to catch fireflies as a child in Minnesota.<br><br>A loon, the state bird of Minnesota, is on a pocket of her apron. In the pocket is black whip licorice, her favorite candy, as well as a monogrammed hankie because Anna was a true lady and always carried a hankie with her. There is also a safety pin on the hem of her purple apron because Anna, despite time or place, could always produce a safety pin.

Harriette, the Frog: sponsored by Anna Harriette Murphy

Harriette, the Frog: sponsored by Anna Harriette Murphy

It was not hard for the Eagles to decide what animal they wanted to sponsor since their last name is Eagles. The name Harry was also an easy and logical choice because it is not only Harry's name but his father’s and father-in-law's name as well. This great American Bald Eagle is keeping it all in the family! They did not want Harry to look too ferocious for the kids. After spotting a Bend, Oregon article about a rescued eagle with a broken wing they decided to have the Eagle’s face look like the one in the article. His expression was so loving and kind. Wanting to memorialize their children and grandchildren on the Eagle, they asked the artist put their names among the feathers of the wings. They were to be very lightly blended into the feathers so that you would have to search for them. Last but not least they had a Jackalope placed on the Eagle just for fun. He has a great expression on his face, looking like he is laughing and full of mischief.

Harry, the Eagle: sponsored by Mary Ellen and Harry Eagles

Harry, the Eagle: sponsored by Mary Ellen and Harry Eagles

Sponsors Peter and Rosalie Johnson wanted a bear that was happy and not too scary for their grandson, Dylan. This middle row jumper named Honey Bear is as kid-friendly and sweet as any bear could be! Honey Bear carries a jar of honey in case he gets hungry. There's that darned bee buzzing by the jar and trying to get into the honey pot!<br><br>Honey Bear wears a wreath of daisies. His saddle and blanket are trimmed to match. He is looking cross-eyed at a blue butterfly perched on his nose wondering what will happen next.<br><br>Honey Bear was the first animal completed for the Carousel and also the first animal to be adopted, sharing this honor with Crunchy, the Shetland Pony.

Honey Bear, the Friendly Bear: sponsored by Peter and Rosalie Johnson

Honey Bear, the Friendly Bear: sponsored by Peter and Rosalie Johnson

Hope is a baby Masai Giraffe, and at a height of 7' 6″, she is the tallest animal on the carousel. Hope's likeness was a little giraffe spotted by the Darby's while they were on safari in Africa. The giraffe was peeking between Acacia branches trying to hide. The Darby's knew not to get any closer. She had the look of "hope" in her eyes though, and they knew they wanted her memory preserved.<br><br>A pair of Southern Yellow-billed Hornbills are cleverly perched on Hope's back to make a level saddle area. Both Hornbills have black and white plumage with yellow bills. The male has a red patch on his throat. A green Red-billed Oxpecker is peeking around Hope’s neck, obviously taking a free ride.

Hope, the Giraffe: sponsored by Sam & Carolyn Darby

Hope, the Giraffe: sponsored by Sam & Carolyn Darby

Elaine had dreamed of sponsoring a dragon on a carousel since she rode a Dentzel menagerie carousel in Meridian, Mississippi. She particularly wanted a land dragon because she and Jack were both born in the Chinese Year of the Dragon.<br><br>When it came time to name the dragon they settled on the combination of the word 'ignite', as in to combust or set fire, and 'knight', as in shining armor. So was born Igknighter, affectionately known as "Iggi".<br><br>Igknighter is an outside row animal standing noble and majestic. The Zodiac symbols of the sponsors' birth months are carved into this magical dragon’s tail. He has fire in his mouth and a time capsule in his tummy.<br><br>In 2009, Igknighter received "Best in Show" honors at the Chinook Winds Coastal Carvers Woodworking Show in Lincoln City.<br><br><i>"Long live Igknighter, our carousel Dragon! It's fun to watch the joy on the faces of others as they ride around and around. Life goes around…enjoy the ride".</i>

Igknighter, the Land Dragon: sponsored by Elaine L. Murphy and Jack L. Smith

Igknighter, the Land Dragon: sponsored by Elaine L. Murphy and Jack L. Smith

Kiger is a middle-row leaping horse, proudly representing the Kiger Mustangs native to Oregon. First discovered in eastern Oregon by the Bureau of Land Management in 1977, these mustangs are dun-colored with a mane and tail that have blonde and black hairs. DNA testing of the animals showed a close relationship to the Spanish horses brought to the Americas in the 17th century. These distinct animals were separated from the other horses and placed in groups in Steens Mountain to preserve the breed. They currently live in the Kiger Horse Management Area.<br><br>The Kiger mustangs are generally agile and intelligent. They are typically bold, but gentle and calm. There is a high demand for the adoption of Kiger Mustangs for pleasure riding and breeding stock. They have been used as models for plastic animals and films including Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron, an animated children's story about a brave wild mustang in the 19th-century American West.<br><br>Since Linda grew up in eastern Oregon and is familiar with this type of horse, they decided it would be a great addition to Albany’s Carousel. As it should be, Kiger is a wild animal and has no saddle or bridle. A pair of eagle feathers are tied to his mane. The saddle area is draped with fawnskin with flowers along the edge. The names of Jim and Linda’s grandchildren are written along the edge of the fawnskin – the girls on the outside and the boys' names on the inside.

Kiger, the Mustang: sponsored by Jim and Linda Lawrence

Kiger, the Mustang: sponsored by Jim and Linda Lawrence

King proudly poses on the outside row of the carousel, standing on all four paws with his head raised and his mouth wide open as he lets loose a mighty roar. King does not wear a saddle or harness as this is not fitting for a wild animal.<br><br>The inspiration for King came during an African Safari trip when the Darbys saw that a lion was watching them from a distance, having just finished eating. He was 'guarding' his territory, just as they felt King would do on our beautiful carousel.<br><br>King has a magnificent dark brown mane and a tuft at the end of his tail to match. Look at that pink tongue and those long fangs! He truly is the King of the Beasts.

King, the Lion: sponsored by Sam & Carolyn Darby

King, the Lion: sponsored by Sam & Carolyn Darby

"Kitty" on the carousel is a traditional European unicorn sponsored by the family of Kitty Doherty. This animal is a memorial piece for Kitty from her parents, siblings, children, and extended family. Kitty battled cancer for eleven years until her condition eventually took her life early in March of 2007.<br><br>One day Kitty's mother stopped by the carousel studio and was so taken by the animals being created that she thought of a unicorn to memorialize Kitty. This sponsorship would be a wonderful use of the monies the family had collected to give Kitty, her husband, and her two daughters for a trip to Disneyland planned for June 2008. Everyone thought that was perfect.<br><br>Kitty loved all four-legged animals but especially horses, unicorns, cats, and dogs. Her favorite color was purple. "Kitty", the unicorn has a purple saddle with ten symbolic medallions carved by Marge Wright, Kitty's stepmother. They are a four-leaf clover for St. Patrick's Day, Kitty's birthday; a fish for her father, Ed Wright; a heart for her mother, Judy Allen; a fairy chosen by sister Mary Jo Brock; an anchor for foster brother Larry Jackson; a dragon chosen by her husband, Kelly Doherty; a lucky horseshoe for Kitty's first daughter Ashley Hogan; and as everlasting rose chosen by second daughter, Alysia Rodgers. There is also a medallion with a pink cancer ribbon and one with a cute bear. Kitty's favorite cat, "Exotica", sits on "Kitty's" rump.

Kitty, the Unicorn: sponsored by the Whole Family of Kitty Doherty

Kitty, the Unicorn: sponsored by the Whole Family of Kitty Doherty

Kiwi is a fancy circus horse performing for us on the outside row of the Carousel. This beautiful animal was already being carved, but in need of a sponsor, when it caught Mr. Sykes' eye. "Kiwi" is named in honor of Sykes' granddaughter Kiyona Madsen, whose nickname is Kiwi. Kiwi chose the colors that make this horse bright and cheerful.<br><br>The Sykes' wished to leave Kiwi a legacy by which to remember them in the years to come. Therefore Kiwi is personalized with a small dog tucked behind the saddle that sports a clown-style collar and holding a pair of ballet shoes. There is also a white Cockatoo on his chest plate. The name "Kiwi" is carved into the bridle cheek strap on the outside of the horse and Kiyona's birth date is on the other side.

Kiwi, the Circus Horse: sponsored by Mike and Josie Sykes of M.J.S., Inc.

Kiwi, the Circus Horse: sponsored by Mike and Josie Sykes of M.J.S., Inc.

Lady Sophia, the poodle, is sponsored by Robert and Katherine Lane. Lady Sophia is a standard white poodle based on a real dog belonging to the sponsors. She is an inside-row alternate animal that can take the place of another animal that needs to be removed or repaired. Lady Sophia's head is turned slightly so that she looks coyly at her audience. She wears a simple brown saddle on a pink rose-colored saddle blanket and has a red ribbon around her neck. The saddle has the name "Bobby" emblazoned on it, while the saddle blanket has the names "Kaya" and "Harley." A Siamese cat, named Demetrius, is curled behind the saddle keeping one wary eye open for the mouse lazing at the front of the saddle.

Lady Sophia, the Poodle: sponsored by Robert and Katherine Lane

Lady Sophia, the Poodle: sponsored by Robert and Katherine Lane

Carousels typically have a patriotic horse. Lightning is this horse on our carousel. He is also the Lead Horse. According to carousel tradition, the lead horse is always the biggest and most decorative horse. The eye-catching red, white, blue, and gold design on this beautiful white stallion lets him live up to his job.<br><br>When it came time to choose a name, the family researched patriotic and family names. Nothing seemed quite right until the Tripp's youngest granddaughter decreed that he would be called Lightning.<br><br>Lightning carries a 13-star USA flag and a bust of George Washington on his saddle. A bald eagle is under the cantle of the saddle in the style of Dentzel eagle-back saddles. Eight small medallions on the harness showcase the favorite activities of the Tripp’s children and grandchildren.

Lightning, the Lead Horse: sponsored by Russ and Duffy Tripp

Lightning, the Lead Horse: sponsored by Russ and Duffy Tripp

Little Sheba is a Palomino horse distinguished by her golden coat with a white mane and a tail that flows all the way to the ground. She is a very flashy and feminine horse. Her saddle is colored in shades of purple. Her blanket and chest pieces are designed to look like pieces of blue yarn woven together and forming tassels at the end. A large blue tassel decorates her pink bridle.<br><br>Little Sheba was adopted by sisters Sharon Edwards and Emlee Lassiter in honor of their parents, Glen and Dorothy Ehrichs. She is based on a real, part Arabian horse named Sheba that was owned by Sharon Edwards as a teenager.<br><br>When she was young, Sharon wanted a horse so badly that she talked her parents into allowing her to have one if she earned the money to buy it. She picked strawberries and beans and did farm work to earn the $150 to buy Sheba. The first year she rode the horse bareback. The next year her father bought a saddle from Sears so she could show Sheba in 4H competitions. Sharon earned the money to pay her father back for the saddle and she and Sheba won several 4H awards.<br><br>Bright and spirited, Little Sheba is an inside row jumper animal who can be seen trotting proudly around the carousel giving delightful rides to everyone. Just as the real Sheba, she brings smiles to everyone.

Little Sheba, the Palomino sponsored by Sharon K. Edwards and Emlee C. Lassiter

Little Sheba, the Palomino sponsored by Sharon K. Edwards and Emlee C. Lassiter

Optimistic is sponsored by Angela Wilt as a memorial to her husband, Dana Wilt. Angela chose a Stallion because it reminds her of Dana who was an adventurous, high-spirited, masculine man who loved life – just like a stallion.<br><br>Angela decided to name Dana’s stallion “Optimistic”, for, during his long battle with cancer, Dana remained just that – optimistic – never complaining, staying strong, and expressing gratitude for the times and opportunities he had had in life.<br><br>Standing next to Optimistic is “Cassidy”, Dana & Angela’s beloved dog. Optimistic’s saddle, bridle, and blanket are symbols of Dana’s other hobbies: his love of flying, collecting coins and guns, and drag racing his ’41 Willey’s AA Gasser. But most of all, his love for Angela, and hers for him is symbolized by the large heart on Optimistic’s chest.<br><br>Finally, on Optimistic’s right rear rump is the brand of Dana’s initials which were monogrammed on the pocket knife he carried with him every day.

Optimistic, the Stallion: sponsored by Angela Wilt

Optimistic, the Stallion: sponsored by Angela Wilt

Instead of a trip or celebration for Bill and Nancy Mickelberry's 50th wedding anniversary, the family decided that sponsoring an animal on Albany's Carousel would provide a long-lasting and personal memorial for their daughter.<br><br>Their daughter Marcella, or Marcy, tragically passed away at the age of 16. She is represented by a blue-winged fairy perched near the neck of the unicorn. The fairy is wearing a blue dress and is holding a red rose and ribbons printed with the name "Marcy". As a ladylike touch, the unicorn has small garlands composed of roses of many colors around her ears and draped over the top of her tail.<br><br>Marcy's saddle blanket has a wide border in a Celtic pattern decorated with gold on a black background. A band at the edge of the blanket has the names of Bill and Nancy's children. Small gold medallions hang from the blanket and contain the grandchildren's names. And finally, a large ornate medallion, with symbols representing Bill and Nancy's life together, adorns Marcy's chest.<br><br>Marcy is one of two unicorns on our carousel. She is a middle row jumper sure to bring a smile to all who see her.

Marcy, the Unicorn: sponsored by Bill and Nancy Mickelberry and Family

Marcy, the Unicorn: sponsored by Bill and Nancy Mickelberry and Family

Martha, the California Quail, is an inside-row leaping animal sponsored in honor of Richard May's mother, Martha May. Since quails are ever present on Martha May's family property, as well as on Richard and Katherine's, this animal was an easy choice for them.<br><br>The Mays wanted the decoration on this animal to be symbolic of interests in all of their lives. Martha May lives in Napa Valley and is involved in the wine-making industry. This explains why the quail's saddle is in the form of a basket woven from grape vines and filled with red, green, and purple grapes. She carries a wine bottle of "Martha's Wine".<br><br>The breastplate on this animal is adorned with a large letter "M" and a large Butterfly Koi fish. Additional adornments include a chef's hat, pepper mill, poppies, and California Oak leaves and acorns.<br><br>The regal appearance of this animal, earnestly running around with its distinctive topknot, only adds to Martha's appeal.

Martha, the Quail: sponsored by Richard and Katherine May

Martha, the Quail: sponsored by Richard and Katherine May

Resembling the much larger Clydesdale, Morgan is a brown and white Gypsy Vanner. These are showy draft animals with very long manes and tails. Good-natured and intelligent, this Gypsy Vanner proudly stands on the outside row of the carousel.<br><br>Morgan is a middle name given to the males in the Berlier family so it is a fitting name for this handsome horse. Morgan's trappings represent family members, their occupations, and their favorite things. A garland at the rear of the saddle's cantle contains flowers with special meaning: yellow roses, the sponsors' favorite flower; violets for Carolyn's Mother's name; pink roses for Ron's Mother's favorite color; a red rose for love, and white for purity. Hearts on the halter symbolize the Berlier's many years of marriage.<br><br>On Morgan's breastplate are icons that represent family member occupations: lightning bolts – the Navy symbol for radioman, Ron's father in WWII; painter's brush – for house painter, Carolyn's father's occupation; World Globe – Navy symbol for electrician, Ron during the Vietnam era; money bag – for banker, Carolyn's occupation; dollar sign – for banker, daughter-in-law's occupation; fire hydrant – for firefighter, grandson's occupation; hard hat – for the construction industry, son's occupation. Above each icon is a colored stone representing these family members' birth months.<br><br>Sadly, Carolyn passed away in 2014 and won't see this regal animal on the carousel. Perhaps the Berlier's special English Springer Spaniels represented on Morgan's right shoulder, silver & white "Bandi" and black & white "Jodie", will be reminders in her memory.

Morgan, the Draft Horse: sponsored by Ron and Carolyn Berlier

Morgan, the Draft Horse: sponsored by Ron and Carolyn Berlier

Peace is our Carousel’s lioness. Her sponsorship was a birthday gift to Linda Lees from her husband, children, and friends. Strong and confident, Peace is an outside-row animal sheltering a lamb between her front legs. Peace stands serenely on the Carousel looking forward with her head back and her mouth closed. The blanket on her back represents the Earth with green continents and blue oceans. Around the edge of the blanket is the word "peace" written in 27 different languages including Braille. The theme of peace is expressed not only in her name and by displaying a lion and lamb together, but by a white dove holding an olive branch by her shoulder.

Peace, the Lioness: sponsored by Linda Lees

Peace, the Lioness: sponsored by Linda Lees

Munchie, a middle-row jumper on the carousel, is based on the Chrapkowski's much-loved lap dog of the same name. The real Munchie "oversaw" his likeness being carved and painted and even came to the party when he was finished.<br><br>Munchie on the carousel is in a full run with his ears and curled tail flowing behind. His mouth is open, giving him a look of excitement – he loves to run! His saddle blanket and chest piece feature a large pink Rose of Sharon blossom and a multitude of white Dogwood flowers. The names of the Chrapkowski children, Marlene, Deb, Dan, Rob, and Ken are written in gold on the hem of the blanket.<br><br>Though in failing health, Stan worked hard to bring together the basswood that would become Munchie and carved several of the pieces. Stan devoted many hours to the Albany Carousel project, cutting patterns, carving, and nearly anything else that was needed. He passed away in May of 2014.

Munchie, the Lhasa Apso: sponsored by Stan and Sharon Chrapkowski

Munchie, the Lhasa Apso: sponsored by Stan and Sharon Chrapkowski

Neal was a real dog that raced at the Multnomah Greyhound Park near Portland, Oregon 33 times from 8/25/00 to 10/11/01. He had a respectable racing career with a few place finishes. He lived to be 10 years old.<br><br>On the carousel he is life-sized and an outside-row animal, sporting green racing silk and the numeral '5'. Three cliff swallows fly alongside him to show his speed.<br><br>When Neal retired, he was adopted by Ted and Rita Powell. He was the 7th of 9 greyhounds they have rescued and their 3rd “repo.” Repos are dogs that were adopted, and for some reason returned and adopted out again. He was underfed, had a rough coat, sad eyes, and was not an indoor dog, probably because he was afraid of smooth floors. The Powells added carpet runners in their home so that he could get around.<br><br>Due to an infection Neal had to have a toe removed from his right front foot. Neal's carver at the carousel created a wooden right foot to match.

Neal, the Greyhound: sponsored by Ted and Rita Powell

Neal, the Greyhound: sponsored by Ted and Rita Powell

Nellie is a special animal for our carousel. She is our “measurement horse,” determining whether young potential riders can ride on the carousel by themselves or need to be accompanied by an adult. Sponsored by Linda and Steve Gallon in memory of Linda’s mother, Nell, Nellie stands on her hind legs, asking children to pass underneath a front hoof to check their height.<br><br>Nell was tall, slender, and graceful, with a shock of snow-white hair…like our carousel’s “Nellie,” and she was wild about carousels, and carousel horses her whole life.<br><br>A rearing brown horse with white mane and tail, Nellie is decorated with items that Nell loved. A lavender scarf flows around her neck. A favorite perfume is tucked in front of the saddle. A Canadian maple leaf and an ice plant represent Canada. The heart-shaped breast place reads “ART & NELL.” She also has books behind her saddle representing knowledge and a smaller heart with clasped hands symbolizing friendship. Nell loved bougainvillea, music, and the seaside – all found on her namesake, Nellie.

Nellie, the Measurement Horse: sponsored by Linda and Steve Gallon

Nellie, the Measurement Horse: sponsored by Linda and Steve Gallon

Patch, an inside row jumper, is a “stargazer” – a carousel animal that is looking upward toward the sky. He is so excited to be galloping around the carousel that his mouth is wide open as if to say, "Let's go!"<br><br>When the Berrys bought property on the South Santiam River it was covered in blackberries and wild strawberries. Between that and their last name of Berry the name “Patch”, for Berry Patch, was a natural choice.<br><br>Patch wears a simple brown English-style saddle with blueberries and strawberries around and behind the back of the saddle. More berries are on his chest band and a small bouquet of berries is attached to his bridle. His blue saddle blanket, trimmed with gold tassels, sets off his shiny black coat. Bob and Mary were avid rock hounds and one of Bob's carved stones, a cabochon, is on Patch's breastplate.

Patch, the Black Horse: sponsored by Bob and Mary Berry

Patch, the Black Horse: sponsored by Bob and Mary Berry

Prana, a mythical winged horse, is a white stallion gracefully flying around the carousel. Pegasus, of Greek mythology, as well as the Ellison Family’s own beautiful Arabian horses, provided the inspiration for Prana, meaning life force or breath.<br><br>The three smiling fairies, clinging to Prana with magical ease and glee, represent the Ellison’s three daughters who, while growing up in Albany, trained, showed, loved and cared for the champions of Springhill Arabians.<br><br>Prana, a middle row flyer, invites all ages to climb aboard. Then try closing your eyes and breathing with the subtle rocking to and fro motion; feel the magical rise and fall, and imagine soaring through blue skies to unknown destinations astride the beautiful Pegasus, Prana.

Prana, the Pegasus: sponsored by Monty and Linda Ellison

Prana, the Pegasus: sponsored by Monty and Linda Ellison

It is no surprise that Dick and Jeannette Reid chose to sponsor an animal on the carousel. Jeannette grew up on a farm in Crabtree, Oregon. Dick grew up close by in Albany. He was a second generation veterinarian working for his father's veterinary practice. They met when Dick treated the cattle on her father's farm. Tim Reid, Dick and Jeannette's son, and the third generation of veterinarians in the family grew up in a house with dogs, cats, and gerbils. He never doubted the decision to sponsor an animal and the hours they spent carving. "My parents always had great judgment and come from a generation that learned to be patient and frugal." Quigga the Quagga and the ring-tailed lemur, Katook riding on his side, are in the pages of a book, The Katurran Odyssey, by David Michael Weiger with illustrations by Terryl Whitlach. It is a children's fantasy book, telling the story of the brave lemur and his tests of trust and friendship. In his journey, Katook meets Quigga and they become friends and travel together. Terryl Whitlach brought her illustration of Quigga the Quagga to the attention of the carousel board who endorsed the idea of creating this unique animal. The only change to the original design from the book was to replace a flower at the top of Quigga's neck with the veterinary caduceus to honor the Reid family's four generations of commitment to their profession. The Quagga (a name derived from the animal's call) are an extinct sub-species of zebra native to Southern Africa. As far as we know, the Albany Historic Carousel is the only carousel to have a Quagga as one of its animals. Jeannette Fae Reid passed away in 2014. The Quagga was her idea and one of the first animals to be designed. She used her artistic talents to carve for a while and got to see her unique animal completed.

Quigga, the Quagga Zebra: sponsored by Dick and Jeannette Reid

Quigga, the Quagga Zebra: sponsored by Dick and Jeannette Reid

Rajah is an elegant Snow Leopard decorated in regal peacock feathers and jewels. Rajah has striking blue eyes and a white coat with black spots, some of which form a ring around a white center. He is wearing a gold headdress with peacock feathers and blue, red, and gold jewels. His saddle is a fan of peacock feathers and red jewels. Inside the "eyes" of the feathers are Cavin family names. His necklace is formed of pearls and more multi-colored jewels. With a tail nearly as long as his body, extending up and out behind him, he will be leaping around the inside row of the carousel with his head held high and his mouth open in excitement. He is a beauty to behold.

Rajah, the Snow Leopard: sponsored by Brooks and Rita Cavin

Rajah, the Snow Leopard: sponsored by Brooks and Rita Cavin

Rose, The Children's Horse is sponsored by Mary Rose. Rose is an Arabian Strawberry Roan Horse that was designed to be attractive to little children. Her sweet expression draws little ones to her because of her big blue eyes, her long eyelashes, and curly mane and tail. She is a feminine beauty everyone will adore. A middle-row jumper, Rose's head is turned slightly to look out at all the boys and girls as the carousel goes round and round. Her saddle is in shades of dark rose red. A locket of Poco, a toy poodle, is attached to the saddle. Rose has a small bouquet of roses entwined in her tail. She also sports a pink saddle blanket with a Double Yellow-Headed Parrot named Charlie perched at the back. Another pet of the sponsor, a Grey-Cheeked parakeet named Skipper, has landed on Rose's head near a red rose that decorates her forehead.

Rose, The Children’s Horse: sponsored by Mary Rose

Rose, The Children’s Horse: sponsored by Mary Rose

Saami is a tan and brown Lapland reindeer paying homage to the Bryant's Scandinavian heritages. Nancy’s mother was Finnish (Salovaara) and Dick’s mother was Danish (Splidsboel). Saami is a middle-row jumper animal.<br><br>Saami proudly displays a very large rack of forward-curved antlers. His saddle is designed after Lapland regional textiles in traditional colors of red, blue, and yellow. Red and white Danish woven hearts connect the saddle with the girth. A Danish gnome, Nisse, sits behind the saddle wearing a red hat and smoking a pipe that is patterned after a family heirloom.

Saami, the Reindeer: sponsored by Nancy and Richard Bryant

Saami, the Reindeer: sponsored by Nancy and Richard Bryant

Representing six generations in the poultry business, the family of Melvin Jenks sponsored this handsome rooster for the carousel. Melvin Jenks was the grandson of Oregon Trail Pioneers who settled a farm in Tangent, Oregon, starting a hatchery business that is still in operation today. The family adopted this rooster named "St. Chick" who will be an outside row stander placed on the carousel during the Christmas season. He wears a Christmas wreath around his neck with family names on the ornaments and a medallion honoring the Jenks family business. His saddle is a blue blanket decorated with white snowflakes and bordered by gold bells. Father Christmas rides along with his “naughty or nice” list of names. Little yellow chicks peek out from the tail feathers and in front of the mounting pole.

St. Chick, the Christmas Rooster: sponsored by The Melvin Jenks Family

St. Chick, the Christmas Rooster: sponsored by The Melvin Jenks Family

Sally, a Brown Swiss Cow, is “udderly amazing”! The design for Sally was first drawn by granddaughter, Annie Bunch, who was 11 years old at the time. The Gisler family was originally from Switzerland and raised Brown Swiss cattle. Gerry was raised on a Washington State dairy farm where the Brown Swiss tradition was continued. Upon his parents retiring from active farming they kept a single cow, a Brown Swiss named Sally. Growing up, the Gisler children often visited the farm and were particularly fond of this gentle animal. Can you hear the sound of Sally's bell as she waits to transport you to the Swiss countryside? She is an inside-row jumper on the carousel.

Sally, the Swiss Brown Cow: sponsored by Sharon & Gerry Gisler and Family

Sally, the Swiss Brown Cow: sponsored by Sharon & Gerry Gisler and Family

Sampson is an inside row jumper on our carousel, painted in vivid colors that are hard to miss. He is a Rhode Island Red rooster and, as his pose indicates, he is in one heck of a hurry. Sampson doesn't like the idea of a saddle and won't wear one….so hang on! The Sellon's chose this animal both because it is somewhat unique to carousels and because Duane raised chickens as a child. Sampson sports a grey metal band (carved, of course, from Basswood) on his left leg that is imprinted with the family name. Individual names of Josh, Arianna, Conner, Colin, and Carter are inscribed within the purple tail feathers and represent the Sellon grandchildren.

Sampson, the Rooster: sponsored by Duane and Ruth Sellon

Sampson, the Rooster: sponsored by Duane and Ruth Sellon

Sassie Mae is a horse with attitude! She was named after a real-life dog and has the same coloring. With a cinnamon brown coat, black mane and tail, and four black stockings this stander is a showy outside row animal on the carousel. Her mane and tail are braided with strings of pearls and faceted jewels. A white dove sits behind the red eagle-back saddle. Sassie Mae’s forelock hangs squarely over one eye – she is beautiful, and she knows it!

Sassie Mae, the Horse: sponsored by Nancy Johnson

Sassie Mae, the Horse: sponsored by Nancy Johnson

Shadow Catcher, a soft and fluffy, long-haired grey cat, looks very much like her real-life model. This animal will be a seasonal ride on the outside row of the carousel during the Halloween season. Her saddle blanket is decorated with pumpkins and vines. The figures on her orange blanket are based on actual Halloween costumes that Barb created and her family members wore for Trick-or-Treating. Look for the puppy, spider, Rapunzel, the Scream, the stoplight and the shaggy dog. Shadow Catcher is holding a Halloween mask and has Halloween tools of the trade including a book about costumes, a box of raisins, a flashlight, candies, and a pile of pennies!

Shadow Catcher, the Halloween Cat: sponsored by Barb Callner

Shadow Catcher, the Halloween Cat: sponsored by Barb Callner

Sir Adrian Chapman is a renaissance-inspired armored horse with vivid colors and artistic regalia. A stylized American eagle, its wings stationed alongside the saddle, grips the adorned chest plate in its beak. The armored horse became artistically sophisticated during the renaissance period and now ranks among the greatest achievements of the renaissance decorative arts. The armored horse subsequently became a predominant carousel figure of the historic carousel period of 1890 thru 1920. Very rarely did a carousel not have an armored horse. With it's home at the Albany Carousel, Sir Adrian Chapman represents a continuation of that tradition. The children of John and Peggy Boock sponsored Sir Adrian Chapman in memory of their parents, long-time Albany residents and both very active in local community affairs. The name Sir Adrian Chapman is a composite of both paternal and maternal family ancestral names. In addition to the armored regalia and trappings, Sir Adrian Chapman sports a cluster of edelweiss on one side, and a yellow rose on the other. Strong family folklore has it that their great, great paternal grandfather died in his beloved Swiss Alps while picking edelweiss. On more solid ground, the Boock children witnessed their father giving to their mother, a native Texan, a yellow birthday rose every year.

Sir Adrian Chapman, the Armored Horse: sponsored by The Boock Family Trust

Sir Adrian Chapman, the Armored Horse: sponsored by The Boock Family Trust

Sir Hugo Page is a griffin (gryphon), an ancient mythical creature with the body, tail, and back legs of a lion, the head and wings of an eagle, and an eagle's talons as its front feet. The Griffin was thought to be an especially powerful and majestic creature. They were also known for guarding treasure and priceless possessions. Sir Hugo Page is an outside-row-standing animal. Cliff Page, the father of sponsor Scott Page, carved Sir Hugo and made this a family project. Cliff, who passed away in 2018, was the only carver on the Albany project who also carved on Salem’s Riverfront Carousel. Sir Hugo Page holds a scepter in its left front talon. A chest plate with the Page family crest is attached around his neck with a gold chain. According to Page family records, the first person to use this crest was Sir Hugo Page in 1260. The motto, "Make Life Work", is on the crest.

Sir Hugo Page, the Griffin: sponsored by Bridget Haggerty and Scott Page

Sir Hugo Page, the Griffin: sponsored by Bridget Haggerty and Scott Page

Summit is a lively gray burro with a dark mane and dark hair at the end of his tail. The trappings that decorate him are painted in bright red, yellow, and blue. In case you can't find him, he wears a breast band from which bells are hanging. Being a pack animal, Summit is fitted with outdoor equipment including a canoe and a sailboat. A camping scene is painted on his saddle. Sponsor Gail Johnston carved some of this popular animal. The burro was chosen because Bob and Gail spend winters in Arizona where there are many burros in the wild. Summit was named after Summit Lake where the family has camped every summer since the 1950s. Summit is an inside row jumper so hold on to your camping gear when taking a spin on this beautiful addition to the carousel!

Summit, the Burro: sponsored by Bob and Gail Johnston

Summit, the Burro: sponsored by Bob and Gail Johnston

Taffy's sponsorship was a Valentine’s Day gift to Ingrid from her husband Ron. Taffy is almost too cute to be real but she closely resembles a real alpaca named Taffy who lived on an alpaca farm in North Albany owned by the Reimers. The real Taffy had a sweet personality and produced the finest quality fleece of any of their Springhill Alpaca herd. Taffy is an outside-row-standing animal. She is very fluffy with feet that look too small to support her. Her ears are upright and peek out of a very bushy topknot that almost hides her huge black eyes. The colors of Taffy's trappings follow a Valentine’s Day theme. Instead of a saddle, she wears a red blanket bordered by rows of roses of many colors. A red and pink collar carries a silver heart-shaped locket with the initial “R”, and a single red rose is tucked into the collar. Taffy is special to Ron's mother, Stella Reimers, as well. Stella watched as Taffy's likeness was carved and painted. Stella was on the carousel's original Board of Directors and stayed a member of the Building Committee through the completion of the new carousel building.

Taffy, the Alpaca: sponsored by Ingrid and Ron Reimers

Taffy, the Alpaca: sponsored by Ingrid and Ron Reimers

Tez is an outside-row prancer animal. Black Buck Antelopes are native to India. Skip and Nancy raised these beautiful animals for many years in North Albany. It was family consensus to name him Tez which means fast or speedy in Hindu. Tez is sporting a striking set of long twisting horns. Across his chest and flowing back along his side is a branch of jasmine with small white flowers. Symbols interwoven into the jasmine branch represent the pursuits of Nancy and Skip as well as their daughters, Rachel and Emily. Look for a hearing aid for Nancy, an English reflex hammer for Skip, a gymnastics balance beam for Rachel, and a jumping horse for Emily.

Tez, the Antelope: sponsored by Skip Throop and Nancy Dunn

Tez, the Antelope: sponsored by Skip Throop and Nancy Dunn

This beautiful creature is a Hippocampus, a mythological animal that is half horse, half fish. Greek and Roman mythology described him as a horse that pulled the sea god's chariot. Little girls who visit the carousel call him a mermaid horse! He is a sea-horse, not seahorse – which is a kind of fish! Admired by Corey, Nina, and Paris Barton while he was being carved, they determined to sponsor him and named him Guardian. Guardian is perfect! Daughter Paris loves fantasy, mermaids, and princesses. Guardian is bright turquoise, Paris' favorite color. His bridle is made from light green kelp which flows down his neck. He has a long sweeping tail that curves back on itself and splits into two fins. Colorful tropical fish and a mermaid (painted to resemble Paris) ride along on his tail. The Barton's added the mermaid's armband with the name 'Paris' and a medallion with the initial 'B' on Guardian's chest. He swims gracefully around the outside row of the carousel guarding all who are near.

The Guardian, the Hippocampus: sponsored by Corey, Nina and Paris Barton

The Guardian, the Hippocampus: sponsored by Corey, Nina and Paris Barton

Our bison was carved by the carvers who created the Missoula, Montana Carousel that opened in 1995. The Missoula carousel, and the positive impact it had on their community, were the inspiration for both the Salem and the Albany carousel. The carvers in Montana carved a horse named “Big Sky” for the Salem Carousel and created Thunder the Bison for the Albany carousel. They have continued to carve animals to give to other carousels. The bison celebrates Montana and the Native American Heritage of the region. On his shoulder is a shield decorated with the design of a sunburst, the symbol of good fortune. Also symbolic of Indian culture, four large eagle feathers are along the bottom of the shield and seven small feathers are attached at the top of the shield. This big guy's shaggy head and tail turned slightly to the right. The saddle area is draped with an animal hide. Depicted on the hide are Native American symbols, feathers, and a hunter on horseback shooting an arrow. Bitterroot, the Montana state flower, is tucked under the hide as if ready to be used for food or trade.

Thunder, the Bison: sponsored by Brenda & Gary Burch

Thunder, the Bison: sponsored by Brenda & Gary Burch

Timber is an English Bulldog placed as an inside row jumper on the carousel. His major sponsor is the Albany Union High School class of 1961, with additional help from other class alumni.<br><br>The idea of having a Bulldog as one of the animals for the carousel was conceptualized by several women from the class of ‘61 while participating in Albany’s annual breast cancer walk. It was decided that this bulldog would be a way to represent some of Albany’s history including the first high school and mascot and the Timber Carnival. Timber was named after the famous log roller “Tim Burr”, the symbol for the Albany Timber Carnival since 1947. Timber's name is placed on his “buck saw” name tag. Timber is adorned with a beautiful “Homecoming Mum” that he will give to his special English Bulldog lady. Frank Merrill, father of Class of '61 representative Jane Ramsey, drew the original bulldog head mascot design when he was a junior at Albany Union High School. He graduated in 1937. He also drew the Tim Burr image of the log roller. He was president of both the local Junior Chamber of Commerce and the 1946 Timber Carnival Association.

Timber, the Bulldog: sponsored by the Albany Union High School Class of 1961

Timber, the Bulldog: sponsored by the Albany Union High School Class of 1961

The real cat named Tuesday was adopted – on a Tuesday – by the Darbys at the Jackson County Animal Shelter when she was one and a half years old. She lived with the Darbys for 18 years, dying one week after Sam passed away in March of 2016. Tuesday was a "Tortie", a cat breed with two-toned, tortoiseshell fur. Tortoiseshell cats are said to have unique personalities, also known as "tortitude", which certainly described Tuesday. She was loving and playful, but only to her "parents". Everyone else was observed at a distance from high above on the refrigerator or atop a cabinet! Running back and forth down hallways was a true joy! Carolyn chose to sponsor Tuesday, the Carousel Cat, as a Christmas and birthday gift to her husband Sam. A silhouette of the cat had been on display at the Albany Visitors' Center advertising its availability to be sponsored. It was close to Christmas when Carolyn saw the silhouette and thought it would be a wonderful idea to sponsor the cat based on their own cat, Tuesday. She also liked the idea of giving it as a gift to Sam. So a bow and a “Merry Christmas, Sam” sign was placed on the silhouette and the next time Carolyn and Sam went by the Visitors' Center Carolyn was able to show Sam his present. Dentzel cats on carousels frequently have a bird, fish or mouse in their mouths. The real Tuesday was fond of playing with a catnip mouse, so the Darbys chose to have a toy mouse included in the final carving. They also decided Tuesday should not have a saddle or harness but should have a collar and identification tag.

Tuesday, the Cat: sponsored by Sam & Carolyn Darby

Tuesday, the Cat: sponsored by Sam & Carolyn Darby

Being a painter herself, sponsor Joan Jordan admired the works of Vincent van Gogh very much. This black stallion, adorned with bright stars, is based on van Gogh's “Starry Night”. Appropriately named Vincent, this beauty is all black with 6- sided stars painted into his mane and tail. The stars look as if they were cut out of the painting. An artist’s paint palette and a quiver of brushes are attached to Vincent's turquoise saddle. His saddle blanket is a stylized version of the painting and looks as if it was thrown over his back. Vincent is a star-gazer animal, meaning he is looking up as if to see the stars in the night sky. He is a middle-row jumping animal.

Vincent, the Black Stallion: sponsored by Joan Jordan

Vincent, the Black Stallion: sponsored by Joan Jordan

Walltha is an alternate animal, placed on the carousel when another animal needs repair or a break from service. He is a memorial for Jeffrey M. Scariano who passed away on March 18, 2018, at the age of 43, from a surfing accident in Mexico. Walltha, the Walrus represents a gentle giant in the ocean and a work of art for the Carousel. He is a perfect memorial for Jeff, whose life passions included painting and a love for surfing and the ocean. Walltha is a friendly walrus sporting a red saddle and straps. On his breastplate is the name Scariano. Medallions around the blanket contain symbols for each family member: for Jeff a surfboard, for brother Chris a $$ sign, for sister-in-law Nicole a yoga pose called Tree Pose, for mom Linda a flower, and for dad Ralph a golf club. Chris' daughters Maddie and Lucy, who named the walrus (combining Wally and Waltha to become Walltha), are represented by a volleyball and a ballet slipper.

Walltha, the Walrus: sponsored by The Scariano Family, in memory of Jeffrey Scariano

Walltha, the Walrus: sponsored by The Scariano Family, in memory of Jeffrey Scariano

Yun Hsiang, the Chinese Dragon, is a middle-row jumper. Yun, Cecilia’s given name, means sea foam, and Hsiang means harmony in Chinese. He is painted in eye-catching colors of rich blue, gold, and red. Yun Hsiang is holding a large pearl-like orb with Cecilia’s maiden name, Chen, illustrated in a black Chinese character within the opalescent luminous layering of the sphere. Traditionally, dragons are often represented with a giant pearl that symbolizes wealth, good luck, and prosperity. Yun Hsiang may look a little intimidating but he is a typical Chinese dragon, always kind, gentle, and wise. He also loves celebrations and he gives great rides on the carousel.

Yun Hsiang, the Chinese Dragon: sponsored by Cecilia and David Gore

Yun Hsiang, the Chinese Dragon: sponsored by Cecilia and David Gore

Zeus is a Grévy's zebra, also known as the imperial zebra, found in Western Africa. He was adopted by Char Walters, whose favorite saying is, “If you hear hoofbeats, expect horses not zebras.” Unlike many other animals on the Carousel, Zeus was completely finished before Char saw him and fell in love. She named her new zebra "Zeus" because his proudly raised head makes him look regal. The De Brazza's monkey hanging from a vine that Zeus holds in his mouth is named "Zorba" because of his fun-loving attitude. One of two zebras on the carousel, Zeus is a middle row animal, not quite a star-gazer, but looking up with his mouth slightly open. "That's my zebra!"

Zeus, the Zebra: sponsored by Charlene Walters

Zeus, the Zebra: sponsored by Charlene Walters

Zulu is a serval cat that bounds around the inside row on the carousel. Servals are medium-sized spotted cats that live on the African savannas. They have very large ears and are known for their jumping ability. Tom actually carved the majority of this animal. Even after he and his wife moved to California he “commuted” back and forth to Albany to continue this process. Zulu was an easy choice for Tom and Tricia because they owned a Savannah Cat named Zulu. Savannah Cats are domestic cats that are part serval. Zulu is in a pouncing pose and is adorned with a flamingo, stretched out to form the back and wings of the saddle. The flamingo was fitting because at one time Tricia collected flamingos (lawn decorations and such). A saucy meerkat rests upon Zulu’s tail. The suggestion for the meerkat came from one of the carvers during an evening carving session.

Zulu, the African Serval- sponsored by Tom and Tricia Nickelson

Zulu, the African Serval- sponsored by Tom and Tricia Nickelson

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