News: ACE tries to save Big Dipper

Posted at 10:08 AM EST (1508 GMT)

Nov. 14th, 2007 -- There may still be a glimmer of hope for the Big Dipper at Geauga Lake. 

The American Coaster Enthusiasts or ACE as most know them, is attempting to preserve the 1925, John Miller-built wooden coaster.  The John Miller classic is only one of 13 left in the world today.

ACE hopes to find a developer that would build a mixed-use development around the coaster that would include retail and restaurants.

Sources though state that Cedar Fair has Big Dipper as well as the other two wooden coasters at Geauga Lake (Raging Wolf Bobs and The Villain) listed for sale.

Richard Munch with ACE said he believes Cedar Fair officials want to sell the property, and historical preservation is not a part of their master plan.

"This all came about pretty quickly," he said. "I think Cedar Fair wants to get out of the business."

Munch is also a board member for the National Roller Coaster Museum and Archives, which was founded in 1992. If the organization can work with a developer in preserving the ride and the land around it, Munch said the group would be interested in turning Geauga Lake into the museum's base. The organization has two warehouses filled with remnants of rides of the past. About 50 coaster trains from 35 different coasters are in storage waiting for a permanent home.

In September, Cedar Fair announced it was shutting down the amusement park side of Geauga Lake because of low ticket sales. The company plans to concentrate exclusively on waterpark operations next year. The waterpark will open May 24 for the 2008 season.

For more information visit the Sandusky Register.