Kennywood’s magic began many years ago.  In 1818, Charles K. Kenny bought one hundred forty-one acres of land with five pounds, ten schillings, six pence, and a barrel of whiskey.  He called it Kenny’s grove.  In 1898, Monongahela Street Railway Company bought the land from Anthony Kenny, Charles K. Kenny’s grandson.  They planned to build a trolley park.

The name Kennywood was chosen by Andrew Mellon.  He later became the Secretary of Treasury.  The main point of the park was a three foot deep, man made pond.  Other structures in the park included a Dance Pavilion, Casino, and a merry-go-round building.  The first ride in Kennywood Park was a three row, hand carved merry-go-round. 

Even today, Kennywood has a child area called Kiddieland.  When it first opened, it was one of the first child areas anywhere.  Originally, it was near the Jack Rabbit.  Unlike today’s Kiddieland, the original Kiddieland only had four rides.  It had a mini whip, Ferris wheel, carousel, and Swan Swing.  In 1927, Kennywood moved the four Kiddieland rides to its present location.  In that location, they added four more rides.

Business wasn’t good for Kennywood during the Great Depression.  The only thing helping it keep in business was dance.  Many bands played there during the 1930’s and 1950’s.  Many new rides were added during in the 1930’s including Noah’s Ark, which is still popular today.

During the 1950’s, many schools came and enjoyed picnics in Kennywood.  During the fifties, many rides were added.  The Hurricane, The Looper, Rotor, The Wild Mouse, and the Octopus were added.  None of these rides exists today.  Also, during the early years, Kennywood had a pool.  It was located in today’s lost Kennywood and was filled in during the 1950’s.

 Kennywood is still famous for their beloved Potato Patch Fries.  People come from all over just to eat their fries.  Each French fry is hand sliced for extra goodness.  As you may have noticed, The Potato Patch has had numerous sign changes throughout the years.