Quick Facts:
- originally known as Big Run Falls (see 1904 Topo Map).
- Link to 1939 aerial photo of Cascade Park in New Castle, PA
- Park founded in 1892 as Brinton Park (by Levi Brinton, the owner)
- Park opened May 29, 1897 by New Castle Traction company (later Penn Power Co.)
- Residents and visitors could take the street car from downtown New Castle, Pa to the Park
(see 1904 Topo Map to see rail line).
- 1898 - largest dance pavilion in Pennsylvania (still exists at Park)
- mid 1920s - over 17 rides, including wooden roller coasters, merry go round. also included a lake, boating, swimming and picnic groves.
- sold to the City of New Castle in 1934.
- the Park prospered through the 1930s-1950s.
- due to declining attendance, the Park fell into decay in the 1970s.
- Most rides were removed during the late 1970s-1980s. The amusement park portion finally closed in 1986.
- the dam also decayed and the lake was drained in the 1980s when the original dam broke.
- since the late 1970s to today the Park has been undergoing continuos renovations into a community park. The Dance Pavilion and Carousel buildings have been restored. In the summer, they host "Back to the 50s" and a light display in the winter called "Cascade of Lights".
Mike's Historic amusement Parks - Cascade Park, NewCastle, Pa - Great informational site
Waymark.com - Cascade Park, New Castle, Penna
Defunct Parks - Cascade Park, New Castle