FAQs on Donation
This is a working list of FAQs regarding the carousel and it’s donation. Check back for updates as they become available.
What is the Timing? Our goal is to have the carousel moved from the at-risk location by October, 2026 (before winter storms arrive). Working back we are asking interested parties to reach out by the end of May. From there we can work with those parties to understand resources, funding requirements etc. so that more formal plans can be made in June and July. We understand this is an aggressive timeline.
Who can receive the carousel? To comply with IRS regulations, the carousel must go to a registered non profit or government entity for a public purpose. An organization assuming the SVC 501c3 is an option.
Is there a fee for the donation? No, the carousel will be a free donation. However, the receiving entity will be responsible for all moving costs including assuming costs for dry storage rental.
How big is the carousel? - The carousel is 48 feet wide, 24 feet tall and, and originally had 48 horses with two chariots.
How will the carousel be moved? The move will require several large trucks. Information about the original move from California has been requested. In the meantime, you can see images of the move here to help gauge equipment needs.
What is included with the carousel mechanism? Inventory of items can be found here
What size building will be required? The carousel is 48 feet wide. The minimum space is roughly 3300 sq ft.
Where is the carousel? The carousel is in two locations in Snoqualmie and North Bend Washington.
Will the carousel remain in the Snoqualmie Valley? While it is our hope that the carousel will remain in or near the Valley, the long-term protection of the carousel is paramount.
If there are multiple requestors, how will the recipient be determined? The board will discuss and ask follow up questions if that happens. We will evaluate financial stability and long term future of the carousel. If at all possible, we will try to keep it in the Seattle area but that may not happen.
Would we consider breaking up the mechanism, art pieces and chariots? No. We are committed to keeping the remaining pieces intact with the hope that some of the horses will return someday.
How much is the carousel worth? Given how few are left, a value is highly subjective. You can see a discussion of the value, images, and an inventory from the 2019 Larry Freels transfer here
How does this impact the painting/restoration activities already happening? Our volunteers had already been restoring and painting plaster decorative elements. We will continue this work until/unless the new organization asks us to pause. You can see some more on our restoration activities here