From the steep descent of the Giant Dipper in Santa Cruz, California, to the twists and turns of Brooklyn’s Coney Island Cyclone, wooden roller coasters have defined American amusement parks for more than a century. And for families across the country, riding them has become the traditional summer experience.

Preserving History

The historical element can’t be replicated in newer coasters, says Richard Munch, a founder of the American Coaster Enthusiasts. “You can have three or four generations riding the same coaster over 100 years,” he said. “It’s typical Americana.”

The classic wooden roller coasters may be more difficult to keep operating, but amusement parks across the country and dedicated enthusiasts are taking on the challenge. The coasters cost more, require more maintenance and are more prone to natural damage from storms, yet those same qualities make them unique.

Oceanside wooden roller coasters were the backbone of American amusement parks at their peak in the late 1910s to 1920s. At the time, about 1,250 roller coasters operated across 800 parks, but by the end of World War II, only 90 remained.

Today, there are around 100 wooden coasters in operation across the U.S. The National Roller Coaster Museum in Plainview, Texas, set to open next year, will feature historic details from forgotten rides and tell stories about modern classics.

Original reporting: NBC6 Miami — read the source article.