Originally known as Terminal Park, Idora Park opened in 1899 as a trolley stop where families gathered for weekend fun. But on April 26, 1984, tragedy struck. A catastrophic fire tore through the park, destroying the Wildcat, Lost River Ride, and many concession stands, leaving half of the midway in ruins. Despite heroic efforts to rebuild, the magic ended in September of the same year. The park was dismantled, piece by piece—until nearly nothing was left.

Yet, in the hearts of those who cherished it, Idora Park lived on.

Enter Jim and Toni Amey, who couldn’t bear to let the memories fade. For nearly 30 years, they gathered what remained—fragments of rides, ticket stubs, pieces of a lost era. Amassing quite a collection, the Ameys built a 4,400 square foot building on their property in Canfield that kept Idora Park’s spirit alive, opening it to the public twice a year.

Now, Mahoning Valley Historical Society is honored and proud that Jim and Toni have entrusted us with the future of The Idora Park Experience by donating the collection to MVHS, and ensuring that this treasure will be available to the public for generations to come. We need your help to create a space to bring this dream to life.

Your donation will allow future generations to step into the magic of Idora Park once more. With your gift, we can preserve and share these precious pieces of Youngstown’s past so they don’t disappear forever.

Larger donations and naming opportunities are available. Donations are tax deductible when you itemize. For more information, contact Linda Kostka, Development Director, at 330-743-2589, ext 125. Let’s bring Idora Park back – together.