The Dentzel carousel shop was started in Philadelphia by a German immigrant named Gustav Dentzel in the 1860′s. His son William Dentzel continued the company until 1928, when it was sold to the Philadelphia Toboggan Company. It employed many fine carvers including the Muller brothers and was known for its realistic carving style.

The Armitage-Herschell Company manufactured carousel animals in North Tonowanda, New York in the late 19th century. They were known for their simply carved animals, but more importantly, for their portable carousels that were the mainstay of traveling carnivals. Their factory still stands and is a museum dedicated to the carousel. See Manns et al, Painted Ponies.

Information courtesy of Cowan’s Auctions Inc.

Daniel Muller came to America from Germany in 1881. He was inspired by Civil War Statuary for his carousel carvings. He used authentic military equipment to decorate his carousel horses. In 1903 Daniel began the D. C. Muller & Bro. Co. The company closed in 1917 when materials became difficult to acquire due to the war with Germany. He later worked for the Dentzel Carousel Co., which was bought by Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters circa 1928. Muller is recognized for his realistic carving style.

Marcus Illions was a Russian immigrant who became famous as Coney Island’s master carousel artist. His horses are known for their flamboyant, highly animated poses, and unique gold-leaf manes.