The Pier
The demise of the multiple carnival-type piers at Old Orchard has taken place over 120 years. All renditions started out grand and were humbled by Mother Nature. The first was built of steel by Berlin Iron Bridge Co in 1898 and considered a “global cultural icon.” At 1,825 ft (556m), it was the longest in the world.
“The Pier Casino” sat on its ocean end, an elaborate ballroom that held 5000 people. (I have verified that with several sources, but wonder. Since I wasn't around in 1898, I'll go with it, even though 500 seems much more likely.)
In 1908 after multiple storms, the pier was shortened to 700 ft (210m) and the casino was scaled down. Its heyday was between World Wars I and II when big names like Guy Lombardo, Louis Armstrong, Benny Goodman, Xavier Cugat, and Frank Sinatra were regular acts.
After consistent storm damage, the casino was demolished in 1970. A blizzard in '78 destroyed the entire pier. Today it is the 500 ft (150 m) 1980s tacky structure you see here with a wooden walkway, souvenir shops, junk food, and a beach bar at the end. 😊
(The tiny figure on the shore has a guitar and is serenading the sunrise.)
The Pier
The demise of the multiple carnival-type piers at Old Orchard has taken place over 120 years. All renditions started out grand and were humbled by Mother Nature. The first was built of steel by Berlin Iron Bridge Co in 1898 and considered a “global cultural icon.” At 1,825 ft (556m), it was the longest in the world.
“The Pier Casino” sat on its ocean end, an elaborate ballroom that held 5000 people. (I have verified that with several sources, but wonder. Since I wasn't around in 1898, I'll go with it, even though 500 seems much more likely.)
In 1908 after multiple storms, the pier was shortened to 700 ft (210m) and the casino was scaled down. Its heyday was between World Wars I and II when big names like Guy Lombardo, Louis Armstrong, Benny Goodman, Xavier Cugat, and Frank Sinatra were regular acts.
After consistent storm damage, the casino was demolished in 1970. A blizzard in '78 destroyed the entire pier. Today it is the 500 ft (150 m) 1980s tacky structure you see here with a wooden walkway, souvenir shops, junk food, and a beach bar at the end. 😊
(The tiny figure on the shore has a guitar and is serenading the sunrise.)