The National Roller Coaster Museum & Archives (NRCMA) has received another significant addition to its collection – a fully-restored 1911 ride vehicle from the iconic Derby Racer at Lakeside Park in Colorado. The donation becomes the oldest vehicle to be featured in the museum’s collection.

In the golden era of amusement parks, Lakeside Park witnessed the undeniably exhilarating presence of the Derby Racer, a remarkable double-track racing coaster crafted by the legendary John A. Miller. Spanning the years from 1911 to 1937, this colossal ride also transformed the northern reaches of the park, originally reserved for social gatherings, marking a pivotal shift away from Lakeside Park’s initial White City ambitions.

This restoration project, spanning two decades and led by the dedicated Randy Duffer, showcases the museum’s commitment to preserving the rich history of amusement parks.

Accordingly, the painstaking restoration process involved meticulous attention to detail, bringing the vehicle, complete with its rudimentary restraint system, back to life. Jeff Novotny, President of the NRCMA Board of Directors, expressed the importance of this addition, calling the Derby Racer a “unique part of amusement park history” and a “foundational piece” in their collection.

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Randy Duffer, the mastermind behind the restoration, described the quarter-century endeavor as a “labor of love.” Now, the vehicle has found a secure and permanent home within the museum, allowing enthusiasts to appreciate the artistry and technology of a bygone era.

Furthermore, this historic acquisition complements recent donations, including a notable Ottaway Train Set and two full Arrow Development trains from Canobie Lake Park. These pieces, each with its own story, come together in harmony with the museum’s master plan, creating an immersive experience for visitors eager to explore the evolution of roller coasters and amusement park rides.

Additionally, as the NRCMA continues its journey in Plainview, Texas, construction fueled by passion and history, it relies on the support of enthusiasts and facilities alike. The tale unfolds with an invitation – to be a part of this ongoing narrative by contributing online at rollercoastermuseum.org or mailing support to P.O. Box 5424, Arlington, Texas 76005.

Embark on this journey with the National Roller Coaster Museum & Archives, an unaffiliated 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, where every creak and turn tell a story of thrill, nostalgia, and the enduring spirit of amusement park history.

Photos: NRCMA