Idora carousel lives anew

Sunday, August 20, 2006 THE VINDICATOR FRANKLIN, Pa. — The carousel at Youngstown's defunct Idora Park made a happy sound that was part of the childhood of generations of Mahoning Valley residents. At 2 p.m. next Sunday, that happy sound will be heard once again. The original Wurlitzer 153 Band Organ that was part of the Idora carousel will spring back to life that day at DeBence Antique Music Museum. When Idora Park closed in 1988, Jake DeBence purchased the band organ and brought it to his Antique Music Museum and Country Store, which was just south of Franklin on Route 8. DeBence died in 1992, and the following year, a non-profit organization was formed to purchase the collection, which was moved into the old GC Murphy Building, 1261 Liberty St., in downtown Franklin. The Wurlitzer 153 has bells and side drums and uses a dual paper roll system. While one role rewinds the other plays, creating a constant stream of music. For directions and other information, go to www.debencemusicworld.com. There is no charge for the event, but donations are welcome. Attendees can bring memorabilia from Idora or other historic locations to share.