Jim Futrell became involved with the National Amusement Park Historical Association in 1980, and was named the organization’s Historian in 1984, a position he continues to hold. As Historian, Jim has authored numerous articles for the organization’s magazine, NAPHA News, and in 1992, started publishing NAPHA NewsFLASH!!!, the organization’s monthly newsletter.  Jim has served as a consultant for several amusement parks including Kennywood, Conneaut Lake Park, and Bushkill Park.  He has also authored many articles for industry trade publications including Amusement Business and Fun World and in 2002 authored his first book, titled Amusement Parks of Pennsylvania. His second book, Amusement Parks of New Jersey, was published in 2004.  Amusement Parks of New York followed in 2006 and Amusement Parks of Virginia, Maryland and Delaware was released in 2008.

*BONUS* – Roller Coaster Innovators

The original Roller Coaster pioneers!  Jim Futrell and I discuss the two most influential coaster designers in history:  John Miller and Harry Baker.

This episode also pairs nicely with Ep. 48 – Action Park!