We generally use that phrase to mean go for the goal, or strive for success. But did you know it originated with carousels? Riders on brass ring carousels can reach up once a rotation to grab a ring from a ring holder (like this dragon). If they are lucky it will be the brass ring for a free ride.
There were once thousands of carousels in the U.S. but now that number down to only hundreds nationwide. Only a handful of those are brass ring carousels and one of them is in Missoula, Montana. While visiting my nephew there recently, we got a great chance to get a behind the scenes looks. We were disappointed to find out that they were closed, but the staff saw my nephew peering through the window and let us in anyway. The were doing repairs to the carousel animals and in the process of carving news ones. It was very cool for a 9 year old to see.
They showed us their designs and how the build the hollow wooden box to card the main bodies of the creatures. If they weren't hollow they would be far too heavy to be on a carousel. Then they hand paint them. It can take quite awhile to finish one. Some of the new carousel animals are replacements for the Missoula carousel, others get shipped to various places around the country.
We also got a chance to wander around the carousel itself and get a better look at all the animals and the inner workings.
Here's my nephew in front of his favorite.
If you are ever in Missoula, definitely check out the carousel (except on Tuesdays). It is a treasure.
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