Toledo Magazine: Enchanted Forest Playland

Envisioned by R.W. Bishop of Toledo as a destination for family togetherness and gentle thrills, Enchanted Forest Playland may still be aptly named for any fairies or other mythical creatures roaming his Kettering Drive property in North Toledo. Wild grass and weeds have grown over car tracks and vines have crept over ride railings, but memories persist of when folks enjoyed themselves on the rides, many of which were designed or built by Bishop. CLICK ON ANY IMAGE TO VIEW FULL PHOTO, START SLIDE SHOW.

Enlarge | Buy This Photo A clown continues to smile at Enchanted Forest Playland even though the music stopped here long ago. THE BLADE/LISA DUTTON

Enlarge | Buy This Photo This sign once welcomed adults and children alike to the amusement park in North Toledo. THE BLADE/LISA DUTTON

Enlarge | Buy This Photo An airplane ride patiently waits to take off with the next load of passengers. THE BLADE/LISA DUTTON

Enlarge | Buy This Photo The Jolly Caterpillar emerges from the foliage ready for a spin. THE BLADE/LISA DUTTON

Enlarge | Buy This Photo Parkgoers purchased tickets for the various carnival-style rides. THE BLADE/LISA DUTTON

Enlarge | Buy This Photo The Himalaya once careened around the curve on the track. THE BLADE/LISA DUTTON

Enlarge | Buy This Photo Birds perch on the framing of a ride at Enchanted Forest Playland, perhaps wondering when the grounds might again be ... THE BLADE/LISA DUTTON

Enlarge | Buy This Photo R.W. Bishop thought Enchanted Forest Playland might become a popular spot for company picnics and school class trips. THE BLADE/LISA DUTTON

Enlarge | Buy This Photo It's lights out for the Himalaya ride. THE BLADE/LISA DUTTON

Enlarge | Buy This Photo R.W. Bishop walks by the clown ride, which was built in Italy. He said folks just don't share that ... THE BLADE/LISA DUTTON

Enlarge | Buy This Photo R.W. Bishop hopes to find a buyer for the Enchanted Forest Playland rides, seen here in this 2002 file photo. THE BLADE