The Beaumont Family Fairground House Closed After Park Bankruptcy

The Beaumont family established Carousel Grove House in 1908 after Victor Beaumont purchased land and developed a small amusement park outside Bellwood County. The two-story home sheltered three generations, including Victor, his wife Elise, their children, and later grandchildren who assisted with park operations. The family earned income from admission fees, seasonal attractions, and food stalls managed around the fairground.

Local records describe the house as an active residence where the kitchen, office, and glass breakfast room supported the daily operation of the amusement park before financial difficulties affected the business.

The first warning sign appeared in 1927 when the Beaumonts received overdue notices from suppliers for ride repairs and park equipment. After several poor seasons and declining attendance, Victor dismissed park workers and closed several attractions during the week. By 1930, the family stopped repairing the carousel platform and reduced maintenance on the house, leaving the upper balcony unused. The economic depression caused further losses, and unpaid business loans forced the family into bankruptcy proceedings in 1933. Victor and Elise left the property that year, relocating to live with relatives after the amusement park was sold to creditors.

Carousel Grove House was abandoned in 1934 after foreclosure ended the Beaumont family’s ownership following business debts and unpaid property costs. No restoration occurred, and no Beaumont relatives returned after leaving the area. County records noted unsuccessful attempts to reopen the amusement park and unresolved responsibility for the deteriorating structures. The house remained beside the unused carousel, with interior rooms sealed and belongings left behind. Over time, broken windows, moisture damage, and vegetation affected the residence. The former fairground home remains empty inside the abandoned park, continuing to deteriorate without restoration or confirmed future ownership.