One of the best things about writing MAGRUDER'S CURIOSITY CABINET was the excuse to spend ages staring at gorgeous photos like these, from turn-of-the-century Coney Island. I have quite a photo file and there'll be much more to follow, so please come again!
The Helter Skelter ride at Luna Park, Coney Island. 1905. (h/t, Shorpy)
"Turning the tip" (which means, getting passersby to come see a show) at Dreamland, Coney Island, 1911 (h/t: Library of Congress).
Dreamland (h/t Library of Congress).
I loved this last photo so much, there is a whole bit in the book written about specifically this view, waiting to hurtle down the track and dive into the lake in the center of the park.