A piece of Canadian amusement park history has found a new home at the National Roller Coaster Museum (NRCMA). 

A scale model of Mindbender, the legendary triple-loop roller coaster from West Edmonton Mall’s Galaxyland, has been donated to the museum, marking the first artifact in its collection from Canada.

The model, an all-metal static display, was used by Galaxyland’s maintenance team for safety inspections and operational reference during the coaster’s 30-year history. 

Standing over five feet long, three feet wide, and four feet tall, it reflects the precision and engineering that defined Mindbender, one of Anton Schwarzkopf’s most notable creations.

As we mark 100 years since Schwartzkopf’s birth, this model is a meaningful tribute to his influence on roller coaster design. 

WhiteWater West played a key role in transporting the model to the National Roller Coaster Museum, donating time and resources to ensure its preservation. The donation underscores the industry’s commitment to honoring its history and its innovators.

The NRCMA, an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit, is dedicated to safeguarding the heritage of the amusement industry. By collecting, archiving, and showcasing artifacts, the organization works to ensure the stories of parks and rides are shared for future generations.

To learn more about the museum and its mission, visit www.rollercoastermuseum.org.

Required reading

• Boblo Island: A Nostalgic Look at Detroit’s Lost Amusement Gem