Would you consider attending a reunion skate this fall? Before we lace up, let’s take a look at the Majestic Roller Rink as it stands today—still echoing with the rhythm of decades past.
A Lifelong Skater’s Journey
I’ve been skating since I was five years old. My sister Debbie and I would skate in our basement for hours. Skating became part of my life—even today, I still skate while flying my helicopters, day and night.
Back in the 1970s in California, we frequented Skateway in Mission Viejo. Jesse, our resident DJ, would often come out and skate with us. When Skateway closed, we moved to the Fountain Valley Skating Rink. That place brought new friendships and unforgettable memories. (I even made a video about it—check the description for the link!)
Midwest Rinks and Disco Nights
Today, my go-to rink is Carousel Skate in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. I drive 60 miles to get there, and it’s worth every trip. The community is wonderful, and they host themed events like disco night. (Yep—that’s me rocking the afro!)
I also fly my RC planes and helicopters at the rink. It’s a blend of two of my favorite pastimes. Practicing “backward” and “forward” catches while skating? Why not!
The History of The Majestic Roller Rink
The Majestic Roller Rink was built in 1912 and has stood the test of time. Nearby once stood Dreamland, another rink that burned down in the early 1950s. Dreamland even had a “bullpen,” where beginner skaters could practice safely away from the main floor.
As we walk up to the Majestic, let’s take a peek inside. The floor still looks beautiful. There’s only one rough patch at one end—which could work well for spectator seating if we were to hold an event.
A Local Perspective
I had a chat with Mary Kennedy, who shared the difference between the two roller rinks that once stood at Arnold’s Park (Majestic Roller Rink).
“The Majestic was built in 1919, while Dreamland started earlier as a tent skating rink across the way,” Mary said. “For a while, both operated here. But in the 1950s, Dreamland burned down. The Majestic still stands, complete with its original briar floor.”
As she pointed to one end of the rink, she recalled the location of the old organ. I began walking across the floor where so many skaters once glided.
Skating the Floor Once More
Time to gear up and hit the rink.
“Let there be light!” I said, as the original disco ball above shimmered—lovingly restored after many of its mirrors had fallen off. I glued them back one by one, bringing it back to life.
Surprisingly, the floor holds up well. Aside from that one rough spot, it’s smoother than a sidewalk. A little wavy in places, but overall, the rink still has its rhythm.
Nearby, I spotted some original wooden-wheel skates. The wear and tear told stories of years gone by. It’s amazing how often people used to skate—how deeply it was woven into their lives.
Memoirs from the Organist
Janet Murphy, the former organist at the rink, wrote down her memories twelve years after it closed. Her words capture the heart of what the Majestic Roller Rink meant:
“Adults skated when the organ played. Sunday was the big night. Locals came to skate the whole evening. Tourists would try it for 15–20 minutes. Some people said they only skated once a year—when they came here—because they couldn’t stand the rock music and plastic floors at home.”
She continued:
“Yes, the music has changed and adapted with the times. But there should be something for everyone—not just teens. Let people know what music to expect so they can choose when to come. The park was safe, and the people made it special. We may never get the rink back, but maybe—just maybe—we could have a reunion skate.”
A Final Thought
The Majestic Roller Rink isn’t just a building—it’s a memory frozen in time, still whispering stories to those who listen. Whether you’re a lifelong skater or someone looking to relive the joy of rolling beneath a disco ball, perhaps it’s time we come together for one more spin around the rink.
So… would you attend a reunion skate at The Majestic this fall?
