Step back in time and experience the enchanting history of Joyland Amusement Park, Wichita’s beloved destination for thrills, laughter, and lifelong memories. From its humble beginnings as Playtime Park in 1945, through its decades of captivating rides, family celebrations, and cherished traditions, this historic park became a symbol of joy for generations of visitors.

This book takes readers on a nostalgic journey through Joyland's highs and lows—its vibrant summer days, unforgettable roller coaster rides, joyful community events, and its final bittersweet farewell during the Easter of 2004. Through a collection of newspaper clippings, photographs, and firsthand accounts, we celebrate the magic, challenges, and enduring legacy of this cherished landmark.

Discover the stories that defined Joyland: the dedicated individuals who brought it to life, the thrilling rides that captured hearts, and the cherished memories etched into the minds of countless families. Each page is a testament to the enduring power of nostalgia and community, bringing to life an era when Joyland stood as a beacon of happiness in Kansas. Relive the magic. Feel the thrill. Remember the joy.

“A heartfelt tribute to a Kansas treasure, Joyland’s story will forever hold a place in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to experience its magic.”
​Step onto the carousel of Joyland, an iconic amusement park woven into the fabric of Wichita, Kansas. Through the fictional journal of Andrew Carter, a dedicated carousel operator, experience a narrative enriched by real historical events and meticulous local research, including sources like the Wichita Eagle.

From its post-war resurgence in 1947 to its golden days in the 1950s, Joyland isn't just a backdrop but a vibrant character in this tale of community, resilience, and joy. Andrew's entries capture not only his personal growth but also the evolving spirit of the park and its visitors—each story a testament to the enduring charm of a local treasure.

"Kansas Stories: The Heartbeat of Joyland" invites you to relive the magic of an era and the timeless appeal of a place where every ride, from the gentle carousel to the thrilling roller coaster, brings a new adventure. Join us in celebrating the true spirit of Joyland, where history spins through the lives of those who cherish it.
​​In July 1959, Steve and Ann Shedd experienced the annual Frontier Day Celebration in Cheyenne, Wyoming, where they were captivated by the Cheyenne Gunfighters. This encounter sparked their interest in fast drawing and gun handling. Motivated by what they saw, Steve Shedd established The Southern Kansas Gunfighters Association upon returning home. The association quickly gained popularity, offering demonstrations, safety talks, and participating in various competitions.
 
The group's talents led them to Joyland's Frontier Town, where they became known as The Joyland Park Gunfighters. For 16 years, they performed at Joyland, delighting audiences and forging lifelong friendships. They cherish the memories and are grateful to Harold Ottaway for the opportunity and to Stanley and Margaret Nelson for their steadfast support.
In the heartland of America, the humble town of Chico springs to life through the pages of Friedrich Schmidt's journal. "Whispers of the Prairie: The Chico Chronicles" is an intimate glimpse into the soul of a Kansas town poised on the cusp of change. This epistolary novel weaves a fictional tapestry inspired by the real-life ebbs and flows of the 19th-century frontier. Through Friedrich's entries and the articles of the Chico Advertiser, we experience the dreams and realities of his family as they navigate the joys and challenges of pioneer life. Their tale is one of hope, resilience, and the enduring spirit of a community facing the winds of progress. This is Chico's story. This is America's story. A testament to the bonds that withstand the test of time and the spirit that forever seeks the horizon. Join us on a journey back in time where the legacy of the prairie lives on.
The world is speckled with lands of awe and wonder that capture the imagination of children and the young-at-heart. Disney World, Six Flags Over Georgia, Universal Studios, and Opryland deliver excitement and thrills that stretch beyond known realities and transport guests to foreign worlds. Before these wondrous lands opened to the public, though, there was promise of an amusement park that aimed to send guests through time and space. Originally named “Time World,” Space City USA was slated to open in 1964, one year before Walt Disney ushered in its first guests. Construction on the multifaceted amusement park began in 1961 with plans showcasing an expansive layout that would transport visitors back in time and to the depths of space. But it was a dream that never came true. Nearly half of the park was completed when construction halted in 1967, leaving behind a relic lost to time in the Northern Alabama city of Huntsville.
​Possession at Joyland is a chilling tale about a family's encounter with a malevolent entity that takes control of a mechanical clown. The story is full of suspense, terror, and spine-chilling moments that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Thomas, Linda, Emma, and Jake are relatable characters who face their fears head-on and fight against all odds to protect themselves from harm.
In the 1940’s the Ottaway family established the first Joyland park at Central and New York Avenue. After the overwhelming success of their Central location, in 1948 the Ottaway Amusement Company purchased acreage on South Hillside Ave to construct the largest roller coaster in the state of Kansas. Opening the new location in 1949, Joyland became Wichita's largest amusement park. The Ottaway’s retired in 1975 and the Nelson’s bought the park. Over the years, it developed into a family friendly park with rides, gunfights, go-carts, picnics, concerts and swimming, enjoyed by thousands. At the turn of the new century, the park started to fade, beset by modern competition, closing in 2006.