I grew up with Carowinds, starting from the 1973 opening season. My parents heard about this new thing from neighbors and ads in the paper, so off we went for the two hour drive down to Charlotte. What a magical moment when the Intamin Sky Tower rose majestically over the horizon! And “racing” the sleek monorail as you drove up to the toll booths. What a first day that was—I was hooked. Still am. Camped out many years during Boy Scout weekend, and while in college I drove from Asheville to work in the entertainment department for two seasons (1987 and 88).

After that it was sporadic, so I missed many of the changes Paramount did along the way, some good, some, well, not so great. But the park is now thriving under Cedar Fair, targeted as a growth opportunity, so it’s gotten a whole lotta love and attention. It’s even getting back to some of its roots, something I discuss in the regional history park book. But for now here are a few items I’ve held onto over the years: an original 1973 park map, a plate and candy dish featuring the park’s major icons back in the day, postcards of Carolina Goldrusher and our beloved Thunder Road (in all its original white-painted glory), a cheap souvenir spoon, and one of my employee name tags.