The Hot Crossed Buns of Downtownton or and baby make three

 Dear Diary,

There wasn't a good scone to be found. Not here in Plancovania anyway. The cravings were strange at best. This pregnancy had already surprised Reginald, "My god dearest, how did this happen?" What do you mean , how did this happen? YOU were there! The night on the HMS Perambutalor ,the stars were out as we strolled the promenade deck. You told me, I quite fancy you. You said, "I'm off to Bedfordshire." THAT'S how it happened! You my dear, are a knob.  You best pull yourself together if you want to be a good father to this child. Traveling back to Waxbaxford is out of the question, till our child is born, so just add another string to your bow. NOW find me a buttered scone with clotted cream! ". I have never seen Reggie move that  fast... 

My favorite-- Scones with clotted cream

Dear Diary,

As much as I was missing my family terribly, the gentlemen at Rose Lake were bend over backward to assist me. It was terribly flattering and Reggie was having none of it. " What do they know about birthing a child?" He went off one day. " Nothing, I am sure of it, but they at least are trying to make me as feel comfortable as possible. Now go to your rubbish trucks and do what ever it is you do." I was only slightly out of sorts that day. He stopped a moment, "Sarah Leigh,  are sure this is what you want, to have our child born in America?"  I pursed my lips "I want a healthy child. THAT is all I want." Reginald nodded. "Right-o then, we'll stay and make the best of things. The Sanitation Company is taking off and monies are coming in to support this little nugget." As for your scones, I have commissioned a fellow to build us a bakery to supply Rose Lake with the Best British Baked Goods to be had this side of the pond. Since I am the Master of Waxbaxford , I shall call it Master Bakers and the scones named after you, my Sarah Leigh"

Some of the Master Bakers

Dear Diary,

JP Marvel was such the gallant gentleman. The new hats he had gifted to me were beyond description.  Even in my gravitas state, I felt beautiful. He is my closet confidant having no female friends here as of yet. My social calendar was quite limited these days. But he assured me once the child was born, I would be the toast of Peepsburgh. Staying in hotel had became tiresome, but the Major insisted as help would always be available from the women folk employed there.  He graciously offered rooms in his home Savoy Hall, once the child was born. Our own home, Watership Downs, was taking longer to finish with the war beginning and able bodied men in short supply. Mr. Fishington was himself painting a mural for the baby's room in the classic style I enjoyed . So all is well

In one of Marvel's amazing hats

Dear Diary,

This time in America has changed Reggie, He has become more soft spoken and understanding. The constraints of his privileged life were slowly fading away. It was a new start and I was glad of it. The babe was due any day ,according to the midwife, So I prepared best I could with what we had. The Rose Lake 'Uncles" as I called them would send lavish gifts daily, most inappropriate for such a young infant of either gender... The latest was a phonograph with 14 records of all the Major's Gilbert and Sullivan Operettas. That the child might appreciate the works of his or her fellow Englishman. Reggie was only slightly annoyed ,as I played my favorite of Pirates and sang along with the ensemble. "Must I hear the man rattle on even when he is NOT in the room", he blustered one day. "And that accent, just were is he from? He is quite evasive about it and I cannot seems to place it. Its all muddled, he uses the excuse of living here for many years.  AND how old is he? I have Questions, Sarah Leigh , I have questions!" 

Sketch of Watership Downs 

A Fascination with Sanitation or Sir Reginald cleans up

 Marvel's Marvelous Memories 1939

A typical day

What was all well and good on the surface, was not behind the scenes. Rose Lake Park had grown by leaps and bounds the last decade and cleaning up after so many new guest had been a daunting task for the small custodial department. By happenchance, Sir Reginald had his own family Sanitation Company in Baskingstoke, U.K.  How fortunate for the Park, and all of us remaining Founders.

 The Major General certainly wasn't going to pick up trash, "Oh Goodness me, Were these Peasant Folk  born in a barn? . Can they not clean up after themselves?" I shook my head,  "Let me explain, ONE. They are not "Peasant Folk". Its the American Farmers Collective from Parlusiana. TWO. Its their annual Company Picnic at Rose Lake. THREE. That is how farmer's dress these days. FOUR. I will admit that using a waste receptacle is foreign to them but, ..... "

A typical Plancovanian Farmer

"OHHH" The Major had a light bulb moment. "Why did you not say they were foreign?.... Bonjour, Ciao and Buenos Freitas to you" The MG was not grasping the situation at all... I was trying to stop the possibly embarrassing encounter, when Sir Reginald came storming by with a stack of papers in one hand and a very tired croissant in  the other. "What IS the meaning of THIS?" The croissant limped in his hand like an over ripe banana. I stifled a snicker, badly.  

"Sir Reginald," I began, "What is the meaning of ....?"  Oh, good Lord...The Major had started an impromptu concert with the farmers and I was always enlisted to sing chorus responses to his production numbers. I never remembered the words and my vocal technique was non-existent. This also distracted Sir Reggie, who seemed quite appalled, so I was able to dart into the Caverns Gift shop.  Just my luck, Doc Fishington was training New Cavern Tour Guides . I grabbed his arm. "I need help. You have two choices. ONE. Get to the MG before the third verse of , "I am a very Model of a Modern Major General" , or TWO. Find out what has Sir Reggie's knickers in a twist".  JF sighed, "Ponty, He's not wearing knickers..." 

The Newest In Knickers

"ARGGGG! I KNOW THAT! We all do. Someone buy the man a pair of proper American Undergarments...But, that's not what the issue is here. He needs something to do. Sarah Leigh is due any day and he is the worst expectant father in history. Let him take over the Custodial Department and he can start a Sanitation Company like he has in Basilchoke , Barkingwoke... Oh, good god ,whatever that place is called..."

"Basingstoke", I will speak to him. He seems like a pleasant enough fellow." JF, calmly set aside his papers. "Now where is he?" We peered outside to in front of the Ice Cream Parlour , where the Major had bought vanilla cones for all and was launching into "When I was Lad " from HMS Pinafore. Sir Reggie was happily licking away and joining in the chorus responses. At least HE knew the words....

JF casually approached Sir Reggie. "Good day ,sir. Pleasant morning for a refreshment isn't it? " JF could calmly charm a raging bull, if he needed too. I had watched in fascination many times, as he brought the MG down from the rafters, over some misconstrued slight. Sir Reggie turned mid lick, the ice cream now dripped into his beard. I tried really hard to keep a composed face. He seemed oblivious to the drip, which only made me laugh to myself even harder. JF through me a, "don't you dare say anything look". He was justified in doing so as my low humor had already concocted a naughty retort. Somehow I found restraint. I really do not know how...  

oh, dear me

Gentleman, may I have a word with you? Sir Reggie was all 

business now. JF, pointed the way. "Certainly, the Park administration building has our offices. Major Wolf, will you be accompanying us?" The farmers had begun to disburse with the free ice cream, so it appeared the impromptu program had ended. The Major twisted his mustache. "What's this all about? I am a busy man. No time for undo fuss arounds. Sir Reginald, how may we assist you? "  Then he saw the limp croissant still in his hand. "Goodness me ,what in heavens name is THAT? I apologize if we have interrupted your breakfast. I daresay, its a rather unappetizing thing . Wherein did you find it? I would be most embarrassed, because no one here likes anything with a soggy bottom."

Sir Reggie looked as only an educated Englishman could look, with 

an unamused glare. JF always knew when to step in. "Major Wolf, Sir Reginald has here, I believe, a proposition for us. We are in desperate need of a better Custodial department. It so happens his Family's Company is Transportation and Sanitation. Not only do they clean up, but they can tell us where to put it." I ALWAYS amazed me how JF could deliver a zinger and keep a perfectly a straight face. It caught Sir Reggie off guard. "But how did YOU know? I have the proposal right here. JF smiled , "It is MY job to know things. To anticipate problems ,if you will. We are in desperate need of your services and I  would hope you would share your talents with us. We are but novices at this whole Amusement Park business and can always use someone with your expertise and knowledge. Teach us, Sir Reginald , we are but eager pupils" That speech even had the Major at a lose for words and that never happens.

 We all watched for Sir Reggie's reaction. He broke into the biggest smile and his gruff demeanor passed. "Well, well, Gentleman, I may have misjudged you. Not only will I take on that project , in which you desperately need assistance, but see here this inferior product." He held up what was left of the croissant. "Purchased in the adjacent village, this is not quality at all. Even the French would be appalled. Well, of course they are appalled at everything not French . But I digress, I propose to finance a new Bakery for Rose Lake Park, I have been I contact with a pastry Chef ,well know in Europe, but with tensions arising there, wishes to relocate to America. He can bake these and much more, including an old family recipe for proper English scones." 

A typical English Scone with clotted cream

 "Well,  I think its a splendid idea" The Major had always loved pastries. "I have missed the scones I enjoyed back in London. There was this one time at I was at the Savoy , we in rehearsal for Iolanthe, I think..." JF cut him off before the story became a monologue, " Thank you, Sir Reggie , We shall deliver your proposal to our Board of Directors. I see no reason they would not accept it" "But you haven't read it?" Sir Reggie was a bit confused. " I put in my oar, "Oh, reading is so overrated."  JF shot a withering glance in my direction. "What the Professor means is, he rather have a presentation, if you will. Are you available tomorrow ,say one o'clock?  We will provide a late luncheon."

So it seems, we would get a new bakery at the Park and the means to clean up after. Oh, and a free luncheon. One can never pass up a free luncheon. But, I must remind myself to arrive early, as the Major will attempt to manhandle all the fresh fruit that is provided, I prefer my peach fuzz untouched.....

Sir Reginald's First Visit or Where were you when the British came through

 Let me introduce myself... 

Sir Reginald Downtownton

I am Sir Reginald Matthew Downtownton. 12th Baronet of WaxBaxford, and seems I am in a sticky-wicket. That Major General Wolf character, whose regional accent is quite peculiar, had charmed myself  into writing a check. The complimentary box seats for the premier revival of Pirates of Penzance at the Savoy, did not hurt either. That rogue of a Major,( I  use rogue in place of a more appropriate curse), was now off touring Europe in Pirates. He had nary sent word if the monies had been spend on a new trolley or something else entirely.  So it looked like a trip to Rose Lake was in order. 

Downtownton Manor, Basingstoke, WaxBaxford

The Basingstoke Railway and Sanitation company could do without my guidance for the interim.  My new wife, Lady Leigh will accompany  me on the New Steamer HMS. Perambulator, as its modern constructions and speed makes the long journey passably tolerable. So off we will go to the wilds of Plancovania to confront the Rose Lake Improvement Co. and Professor Fishington.

HMS Perambulator

The steamship travel was uneventful,  thankfully. We arrived in New York and promptly boarded the Plancovania Central Railroad to Peesburgh. A car would be waiting to transport us to the Grand Cocotier Hotel, where a Dr Fishington would greet us and ensconce us in the Admiral Suite.

Grand Cocotier Hotel

Well, that was the plan, anyway.

In true American fashion, something went wrong. Numerous times. I can vouch for the sincerest of apologies all round ,but good gracious, what a bungle it was. I will spare you the gross details of our endeavor as they are too many and of topsy-turvy in their nature. Finally in the Suite, which had a faint lingering smell in odd corners we could not identify, we chalked it up to the age of the establishment. 

Tomorrow would be an interesting day, as Dr Fishington said, he had an important discovery he wished to share with us. Little did I know how interesting it would be.

After a bit of confusion and meeting another co founder, (How many were there?) JP Marvel drove us in his Bearcat Coupe to Dr Fishington . An especially chatty and possibly daft hatter ,as he seemed to think we were from Australia. We met the Dr. at the front of his charming little park. The friendly attitude of everyone we met and the cleanliness of the public areas was impressive. I began to change my perception of this being a backwater. He introduced himself and offered an apology that the Major General himself was not here to greet us. He had been delayed in Florida with transporting a new animal for the Rose Lake Zoo. "You have a Zoo  I was shocked, but not truly surprised ." Well Sir, its still in its infancy ,not ready to open to public scrutiny just yet."

Mr Fishington seemed a bit evasive about the project, when I queried several other questions. He said the Major would dispel any doubts I had. I immediately knew to be wary...He gestured in to what seemed to be a gift shop. " The first stop on our tour" He smiled. I was not amused. "It seems trinkets and inexpensive fluff wont pay the bills, Good Sir" " Oh Sir Reginald , its not this shop, its what is underneath it" Leigh looked at me a bit alarmed, like she might have to crawl on her belly like a reptile, to get wherever we were going . She had already suffered Seasickness terribly, on the trip over.

" Good Sir, If you think for the moment a Downtownton  would crawl upon the ground,  you are very well mistaken" Mr Fishington looked at me and burst out laughing. I was incensed. As I turned to go he stopped my with these words. "We discovered a Cavern of the most amazing size and grandeur. A Tour will be given for a modest fee , so people may experience a new wonder of the modern world. This in itself will save Rose Lake from the debt of the Great Depression, I have no doubt." I want to give you and your Lady a personal tour.

The ingenuity of Americans never ceased to amaze me.

Doctor Fishington, I presume or The Major's NOT the Captain of the Pinafore

Doctor Jason Fishington 

Peepsburgh School of Liberal Arts

11575 Pear Street

Peepsburgh , PV

Random thoughts on a dreary Spring Day.

At the school for the day, as Rose Lake is closed due to the inclement weather. I keep a Journal, as anyone should, to write down my thoughts, ideas and adventures. I tend to be lackadaisical with such things, unless its during an adventure out west or traveling in with the Major General. Those trips ,I regret, are few and far between as our schedules sometimes do not mesh as much as we like. My many commitments here at the school, park and new Museum of Fine Arts keeps me rather busy. Some days, an hernia injury has been know to sideline me ,but this season it seems to be non existent.

The opening of the Fine Arts Museum was a great success, drawing the artist community from all over the Peepsburgh Region.     

For once, Stan (MG) took a back seat and quietly funded the project when it looked like the Depression might have killed it. Ponty (JP Marvel) also became a secret investor. His newest project kept him away, finding new animals for the Rose Lake Zoo. Other than what the Stan might drag home.. Trust me its an issue. I adore him, but sometimes ,well he can be a lot to reign in. As an example...

Yes, auditions are approaching for the 1935 Aquacade The "Wet Pirates of Penzance".A production done entirely IN the water. Well, everyone but Stan, who would will appear on a decorated float ,as not to get this hair wet....  Since the theater was flooded, and still under refurbishment, this made the most sense. In his mind, anyway.

 This is the Major Generals boat. The Pinafore. He is not licensed to drive it, or has the experience, but that has not stopped him .So far there has been only ONE slight accident involving a tour boat. The Major was able to swerve out of the way, making the tour boat run aground. No one was injured fortunately, and as an apology were treated to  a lovely dinner at Von Steubens and front row seats to the production at the Swan ,"Anything Goes"  which I found to be quite appropriate. A pair of swans were traumatized in the whole unfortune incident, but was treated with care at the Rose Lake Veterinarian Hospital. They are recovering nicely, despite a loss of a few feathers and slight fear of him now. We hope to relocate them to the Zoo in the future. 

Stan said his glasses had fogged up during an impromptu performance of "Wet Butt Pirates" for the tour Boat, but I know better. 

I also tried to explain that referring to the show as "Wet Butt Pirates" might be misconstrued. Stan insisted that if his posterior continued to get wet ,what else would you call it ? Unfortunely , that comment was overhead at a Museum function and appeared in the Gazette the following day. He no idea that he had coined an inappropriate term to describe the situation.  This then, resulting in several large envelopes left for him with ink blot rear buttocks prints ..."What the devil's this, he muttered.  WHY did someone send me a rather sad art print, of the largest peach in recorded history?"..... Oh, Stan....

"AND this quote in the Gazette is wrong on many points. I am a Major General, not a Rear Admiral .

 Why ARE you snickering, Jay?

"Oh, so sorry, I mis- read that. A rear admirer"....well... yes... that's certainly not a secret  to any one that knows me, but what does it have to do with Wet Butt Pirates?"

 

The Marvel of Millinery or hats fantastic giving the world a good head

 It is I, the famous and fabulous Julius Pierpont Marvel.

The day was Warm and Sunny. 

Well, every day is warm and sunny in Florida. Moving the hat manufacturing business here with its liberal laws was an easy choice. The Villa was quite the showplace and I enjoyed hosting parties and the Men's Olympic Swim Team.  

Views of the pool at Sweaty Palms

The Major was here for a visit just recently. It was not without the usual drama and hysteria that seems to follow him wherever he goes. Do not get me wrong, I adore the fellow and without him, Marvel Hats would not be what it is today. BUT, he is a lot to handle sometimes . How JF does it, I do not know. Their bond is a special one, no doubt about it.   

I arranged an Everglades Air Boat ,the "Maid of the Marsh", thinking the MG needed a bit of calm  leisurely boat ride. It was neither calm or leisurely. A  rather large alligator had beached himself on the bank in distress. He attempted to get our pilot to lasso the poor creature and tow him behind. I vetoed such an act as I am a animal lover of highest degree. One of my many dreams to to open a zoo back in Peepsburgh. Our pilot was a crafty fellow and was able to secure it on the boat, much to the MG's dismay. The fellow was massive, yet a amazing specimen. The Olympic Swim Team helped as best they could. Bravo, Boys.

The Team helping capture Alfredo the Alligator

I was thinking out loud about how I would love to return him to Rose Lake but, no  suitable habitat existed. The MG suddenly lit up like a candle. "Why not build one?" He announced to no one in particular. "Peepsburgh lacks a proper zoo and it would be a boon for Park attendance. " I rolled my eyes skyward "There is no place near the lake big enough for habitats and the terrain is quite hilly", It seemed I was the voice of reason. The  MG thought a bit, "What about the farm land over the hill? Its fairly flat and we own it outright. It was going to be a farm retreat for JF and myself ,but good heavens, who wants to spend a weekend with the cows? " As usual the MG was on the mark, I would return home and start to draw up the plans. He would insist on helping ,but his artist skills did not transfer to the page, as they did on stage.

The Olympic Swim Team clowning around

Returning to Sweaty Palms, luncheon was being served and the Olympic Team was enjoying the repast. Several other local gentleman were in attendance, as house staff was difficult to employ in the summer months. The MG took it as a sign he had to put up a performance ,but I assured him these young lads did not care for operetta. Obviously, now uninterested in luncheon, he retire poolside to pout. 

It wasn't long before we all heard a blood curdling scream from pool house. It seems Trevor the star diving campion was changing from his suit into longue wear when the MG walked in on him. I can safety report, that once we retrieved the MG from the roof ,all was well. The MG is deathly afraid of snakes and though he had seen a whooper. In truth, it was a whopper but not of the reptile kind. I was able to convince Trevor that  it was gods gift and not an embarrassment. We became close friends after that.

Trevor by the pool

I soon would return to Rose Lake to begin construction on the zoo . Trevor would now be my personnel assistant after medaling in several Olympic events. His modeling career had not yet taken off, as he was reluctant to do what it took to do so. I assured him, I would not hold it against him. I would always ask first. 

So a trip back to Rose Lake seemed to be in the cards. Trevor would accompany me and I would meet our newest benefactor Sir Reginald Downtownton. The Major had assured me he was a, "right proper gentleman from a distinguished family". I did not know what to make of that, as the MG seemed to know many right proper gentlemen. On the train, I did find an article of the Downtownton's arrival in America, complete with photos of his wife, who I felt could use a Marvel Hat, as hers seemed outdated and a bit dowdy. 

We arrived in Peepsburg, and settled in at my residence, Mad Hatter Hill.  The Major had seethed for a moment when hearing the name, worrying the prestige of Society Hill would some how be degraded. I assured him it would not. I was never wrong, at least in this case. It was much more modest than his ,but a larger home would require much more  matinence than I was willing to invest in.

Mad Hatter Hill

Trevor was amused by the eccentric art collection which was vastly different than he had seen in Florida. He asked if the portrait over the fireplace was a good likeness.. 

I told him that others had suffered lengthy punishment for suggesting such things. He was not at all fazed by this. His playful smirk I suspect, was an indication of an interesting evening ahead.

 The next morning, I left Trevor to sleep in, as I was an early riser and insomniac, to make my way to the park. I left instructions with the staff to feed him  hearty breakfast and send him to the park with the preliminary plans for the Zoo. I parked at the hotel as the Park was not open and  hoping to meet this Downtownton fellow. As luck would have it, they appeared on the Veranda. Now would be a good time as any to introduce myself. I decided right then, I would gift her ladyship a new chapeau. Was it possible whatever that was she was wearing had died up there? 

Lady Leigh's Hat

I shuddered at the thought.

"Welcome to Rose Lake Sir Reginald and Lady Leigh. How nice to have you here. How was your Voyage?" The blank stares that greeted me, made me only slightly amused. "Dr Fishington, I presume?" I smiled, "NOT at all" I bowed , because isnt that what your supposed to do when meeting foreigners? "I am JP Marvel, Millinery Master  and co founder of Rose Lake" Her Ladyships eyes lit up. Just the reaction I wanted. "Oh my goodness ,I have heard of your creations abroad. Do you have a shop here?" I nodded. "I would be most honored to have her Ladyship in my humble establishment. I suspect there is the perfect hat for her discerning taste" Sir Reggie seemed annoyed. "We are NOT here to shop for trifles ,my dear. This is business" I winked at her ladyship, as Downtownton blustered down the stairs. "Where might you be meeting Dr. Fishington? " I inquired?  "He was supposed to meet us here" Downtownton grew angrier by the minute. His accent was very interesting and I was about to inquire what part of Australia they were from. Sydney? Melbourne , Alice Springs? I had only read about such far off places and the feathers of the Cassowary, the Gang -Gang Cockatoo and the Lyrebird.

Cockatoo

Lyrebird

Cassowary

Just then a valet appeared at the hotel door. "There's been a bit of confusion and Dr Fishington would like you to meet him at the Gate, its just a short walk...." Sir Reggie's face turned a lovely shade of crimson. " MY GOOD SIR, THE DOWNTOWNTONS DO NOT WALK ANYWHERE!"

I jumped to the rescue, "Sir, I have my motor car right here. I would be more than happy to drive you there". He was taken a bit aback , but when I showed him, the Bearcat....YES, I had borrowed the Major's car that morning, unbeknownst to him. There would be hell to pay ,if he found out, but he was a notoriously late riser and wouldn't get out of bed before noon. I had lots of time.. Besides, he was driving his new Duesenberg as of late. The Major loves his Big Boy toys. 

The Major Generals Duesenberg

Her Ladyship giggled again, as the Sir Reggie admired its classic lines and pristine condition. " its an older model but I like it", I remarked casually. I hope he would not ask specifics, as I had no clue about them... Lets get you to the gate ,Doc Fishington, must have a very good reason for the misstep. I had no clue what was going on, but that never stopped me before....

We arrive post haste at the gate to a grinning Dr. He sometimes could be as mischievous and the Major himself . They were a pair ,alright.

I jumped from the car and hugged him. Much to his dismay, I might add. "JP ,what are YOU doing here and with the Downtowntons?" He whispered. "I will fill the gaps in later , let me introduce his Lord and Ladyship. All the way from Down Under.". Fishington shot a strange look at me and Downtownton shook his head. "Idiot Colonists" he muttered.

Well, these Australians are certainly a funny bunch.  

  

The Roaring Twenties and "My Glorious Life" volume 2 part 2

Back home, at the Park, things were coming together.

The construction on the new Rose Savoy Theater was complete. A plot of land, center of the park across from the Great Rose Medallion clock. A modern and much larger facility for performances of Gilbert and Sullivan's finest works. Staring, of course, your truly. Fans insisted, no demanded, I continue my stage work. I had made plans to scale back performing, as leisure travel was most enticing. At least a proper venue close to home made that easier, than the many weeks on the road or in London.

 

MY new dressing room. Much roomier than the old loft at the Rose Theater. Even a place to park the Bearcat

The backstage access a major improvement.

Much to my pleasure, the Japanese Garden was thriving. It is looked after by a wealthy Japanese baron by the name of Makoto Hagiwara. He went through great efforts to create an authentic tea garden. He imported flora and fauna local to Japan (such as special trees, fish and rare birds), as well as valuable statues, ornaments and sculptures to enhance the setting.









The New Grand Entrance and Trolley station. A set of brand new trolley cars were now on route, to bring even more folks to our little park.

And gracious good heavens, all the new rides...

When I returned to Rose Lake to open end the current theater season, with our production of Pirates Of Penzance , of course , the new scope of the amusements astonished me. Mr Fishington was ever the grand master of his domain, only bring in the newest and exciting things. I barley recognized the park...

The Flying Turns

A toboggan style ride, themed to air travel. A bit to swift for my taste and with its twists and turns, it could upset many a stomach. Most folks enjoyed it. Our custodial staff, not so much.


Bearcat

Named after my most prized automobile. JF has stopped me from using in the park to get around, as it scares the swans and can leave skid marks on the new bridges. And I must remember to put in a call to replace that defective light post...


Here's the the entirely new area called Comet Plaza...


Mirror Maze, Tilt a Hurl, Dodgems and Comet

The new roller coaster would be quite the hit among the younger adults now frequenting the park.


The Swan Pavilion had been dark for sometime as the Peepsburgh Men's Chorus had been touring in South America. So I surmised a new show to replace then would be welcome. After a tour of France and seeing the famous Moulin Rouge, I contacted an old friend Madame Tussaud, and she agreed to bring a few ladies over the perform at the Pavilion. It was a great success.

Much to my enjoyment, the old Nickelodeon had been saved and moved up the hill. We now had an up to date movie house showing the latest talking pictures. Can you imagine?

Professor Marvel before parting to Orlando, opened his first full Shop to sell his creations. He is hoping to franchise these stores all over the county. They will include his exclusive designs, such as the "robin hood" bonnet and the "Squirrel Chapeau".

With the advent of Prohibition, his beloved saloon would shutter. But not for long, as we opened a new Ice Cream parlor for the family's that now frequented the park. His favorite flavor would be Absinthe, but I was always partial to the Rum Punch.

I haven't even touched on the new restaurants and cafes that have been added, but I will leave them to the next chapter.