Strates Shows
Strates Shows is America's only railroad carnival. It travels the United States during a seven-month season, transporting personnel and equipment with 61 rail cars and 34 trucks. Traveling with the show are some 400 employees and families who operate the many rides, games and concessions.
History
Strates Shows has a history dating back to 1923 when James E. Strates, a Greek immigrant, began his first show. Mr.Strates came to America in 1909 and, like many immigrants, worked at a number of odd jobs. In 1919, he joined a carnival athletic show as a wrestler taking on all challengers. In 1923, E. James Strates acquired Southern Tier Shows and in 1932 changed its name to James E. Strates Shows, after his son. Mr. Strates continued to build and manage the carnival until his death in 1959. At that time his son, E. James Strates, assumed responsibility for the carnival and still operates it today. The crew that is on the train can unload all of the equipment cars totaling more than a miles worth in about 18 hours.
One of the oldest stops on the circuit is the Erie County Fair, also known as America's Fair, in Hamburg, New York, which started its relationship with the Strates in 1924.
Some Of The 100 Rides Of The Midway
Giant Wheel
Top Spin ride
King's Circus
Fireball
KMG Fireball
Wave Swinger
Zipper
Hang Glider
Starship 2000
Cliff Hanger
Sky Flyer
Titanic Inflatable
The Round Up
Mini Indi
Bumper Cars
Dodgem
Century Wheel
Dragon Express
Monkey Maze
Orbiter
Zyklon
Mini Swing
Haunted Mansion
Musik Express
Himalaya
Sea Ray
Drop Tower
Tornado
Enterprise
Carosel
Thunderbolt