Here’s a rare film view of Coney Island from 82 years ago — when designers and operators of thrill rides didn’t have to worry so much about insurance company safety inspectors, much less OSHA.
Shot for the British Pathé newsreel company in 1932 at what appears to be Luna Park (which burned down in 1944), this clip shows New Yorkers at “Uncle Sam’s playground’’ enjoying extravagant rides that look like a lot of fun — but wouldn’t pass muster in today’s more safety-conscious age.
In addition to these long-banned rides, there are also glimpses of women’s skirts being blown by air machines, as well as a human cannonball.
Even more crude thrills are on view in this silent newsreel from 1919, which records a visit by Army nurses fresh from World War I to Coney Island. It looks like Steeplechase Park, which soldiered on until 1964.