Berkshire Carousel Offer Withdrawn, Volunteers Plan Reopening
PITTSFIELD, Mass.— The Berkshire Carousel offer has been withdrawn, and a volunteer group plans to reopen it.
Tuesday’s City Council agenda includes withdrawing an order to accept a conveyance and donation of land at 50 Center St. (the Berkshire Carousel.) While the carousel, owned by James Shulman, opened to enthusiastic fans in 2016, it has not operated since 2018 after leadership and funding fell apart.
“On January 17, 2025, I received an email from Mr. Shulman notifying me of his withdrawal of the gift of the carousel and conveyance and donation of land at 50 Center Street,” Marchetti wrote.
“Given this set of circumstances, I no longer intend to create a committee to study the carousel project.”
The mayor’s office said it understands that Shulman is working with friends of the carousel group on other operations plans.
On Friday, iBerkshires.com received a press release from a volunteer group affiliated with the Berkshire Carousel, Inc., announcing the course's reopening in the spring. It explains that when the volunteers learned that the ride could be revived, they began working with the Berkshire Carousel, Inc. to offer an opportunity for it to be run “By the people who love it most.”
The group reports that an opening date will be announced soon.
“We are excited to reintroduce the Berkshire Carousel to our community,” said Janet Crawford, volunteer group coordinator.
“This carousel is more than just a ride; it’s a testament to the creativity and dedication of our volunteers, and we can’t wait to see it being enjoyed by everyone who visits.”
Conversations began in November when the conveyance and land donation were brought to the council. A 2025 operational model and budget put forward by the donors costs about $61,000 annually and brings in the same amount of money, with $25,000 income from rides alone if they cost one dollar. It also included a $15,000 gift from the Shulman family.
Not included in the donation were seven of the 33 carved horses and free-standing carousel figures and two sheds located on the property.
Shulman asked that the property be maintained as a permanent, small park named "Shulman Family Park," even if the carousel is relocated. And, in recognition of the volunteers and sponsors who helped create the carousel, he asked that its building be named "The Berkshire Carousel Pavilion."
In December, the Finance Subcommittee determined that more conversation is needed before the decision and it was recommended that Marchetti enact a committee to review it.
Community members and officials voiced support for saving the carousel, attracting visitors to the area, and providing more activities for children. Concerns included the operational costs and the location.
“The Berkshire Carousel Is not just a local attraction—it is a living piece of art, handcrafted by volunteers and artisans over many years. Its reopening marks a new chapter, continuing to serve as a gathering place and source of inspiration for residents and visitors alike,” the volunteer group wrote.
