Massive renovations are underway at the Nashville fairgrounds, making some longtime Nashvillians think about all the changes that have taken place over the years on the historic 117-acre property located southeast of town.

Fair Park was a main attraction on the grounds for several decades.

The theme park opened in April 1952, touting a giant Ferris wheel, merry-go-round, boat ride, pony ranch, penny arcade and miniature train.

The park was an instant hit with kids in elementary and junior high school. They would save up their Royal Crown bottle caps and exchange them for ride tickets.

The park itself underwent many changes after its grand opening.

New attractions were added every few years during Fair Park's 35-year existence. Residents would start talking in the spring about rumors they heard about new features.

In 1955, an 18-hole miniature golf course was built at the park. It was said to be one of the best in the south and featured water hazards and sand traps.

Three years later, the Tilt-A-Whirl, a new thrill ride, was added — and it was an instant hit. The longest lines as the park were those for the big red ride with individual compartments that spun around while following a wavy circular track.

The biggest addition came in 1965 when a huge wooden roller coaster was built. The Skyliner, as it was called, was not for the faint of heart.

People would drive by the park just to watch construction of the $250,000 ride. And it did not disappoint thrill-seekers when it opened on Aug. 5.

But it wasn't always fun and games at Fair Park.

On a spring night in 1963, the Ferris wheel, which peaked at 55 feet, broke down after a cable snapped with passengers aboard. Thirty-five people were taken from the wheel using a snorkel rescuer, and thankfully no one was injured.

A controversy stirred at the Cascade Plunge, a swimming pool at the park, in 1962 when management decreed French suits, or bikinis, and low cut shorts were not allowed.

To the disappointment of many Nashvillians Fair Park closed on June 14, 1987.

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Reach Mike Organ at 615-259-8021 on Twitter @MikeOrganWriter.