The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
It was an icon for the Stronghurst Park. To each generation it was a “rite of passage” to brave the Curly-Q slide for the first time. Small children climbed step by step to the towering height, sat down, and pushed off screaming while round and round they went until their feet touched the ground. Family picnics, class reunions (big people went down it too), church socials or just a day in the park found the Curly-Q one of the main attractions.
Originally, when “play apparatus” was added to the park (yes, that is what they called it), times were scheduled as to age groups and an instructor, paid by the village, showed children how to play. This may seem strange, but years ago children were meant for work, not play.
For years the Curly-Q, a straight slide, swings and the merry-go-round meant a place to spend time. Alas, time caught up with both slides and they were dangerous; sharp edges from wear and tear from all these many years found the “play apparatus” unsafe and the village board had no choice but to tear them down never expecting that replacement would be an issue.
But an issue it is, as now government bodies require regulations and safety standards to be met.
At the last village board meeting, David Knutstrom presented his findings.
The American Slide Co. had made the old one so he consulted them and here is what he discovered: the old Curly-Q was believed to have been 12 ft. high and in order to put back a similar spiral slide, the cost would be $50,000 broken down as follows: $17,000 for the bare slide, $24,000-a turf and pad, $8,000 for steps and platform and another $1,000 for bordering material to form the perimeter.
Besides this high expenditure, the village crew would have to install it! Buying a cheaper poly side would mean less money but would only last about 10 years. Mr. Knutstrom noted that whatever was constructed would have to be inspected regularly and a log book maintained. He also stated that lowering the height would reduce the cost.
What are your feelings about replacing the Curly-Q? Would you be happy with a 10 ft. or 8 ft. slide? Are you willing to donate to a fund? Talk to your town board members or Mr. Knutstrom; your thoughts matter.