ontariobeach.html

Ontario Beach Park was formed by the sand that built up after the construction of the piers. By the mid 1850's people were coming down from Rochester to swim. In 1884, a company was formed to build an amusement park. It was very successful. People came from all over to see the sights and ride the rides. The park closed after Labor Day in 1919. The only thing that remains is the 1906 carousel and a lovely public beach.

In 1916 the Town/City of Charlotte was absorbed by the City of Rochester.

Cottage Hotel built in 1874. In 1884 New York Central & Hudson River Railroad builds a boardwalk at Ontario Beach Park. The ride from the St. Paul Street Station costs 5�. The land was leased to Lake Ontario Beach Improvement Company. They install amusements of which a few are; a Carousel, Roller Coaster, Shooting Gallery....

Hotel Ontario constructed on Charlotte Beach.

In 1889 an Electric Trolley Line was extended down Broadway [Lake Avenue?] from Ridge Road to Ontario Beach Park. NYC&HR RR starts loosing passengers to the trolley and build a fence around the park and start charging 10� for admission. Steam train passengers are allowed to get off inside the park and do not have to pay an admission fee.

Trolley line to west connects Charlotte with Crescent, Grandview and Manitou Beaches. Trolley line to east connects Sea Breeze, Sommerville, and White City.�

'The Breezer ' is installed at Ontario Beach Park in 1907. This was a scenic railroad constructed along the river from the lake to Beach Avenue. 20 people ride in each car, which enter a darkened building as it starts it's return trip. After a quick flash of daylight, its back to darkness with the growls of lions and tigers. Daylight again, and the final series of hills to the end.

Eventually Ontario Beach Park acquired by city.

In 2004 there is still an operating Carousel here.

CREDITS: hmmm..from my notes. Beyond that I'm not sure.