A contest was also featured during the event, with winners receiving an exclusive tour of the Spook-A-Rama ride. “We had a lot of people sign up for the contest,” said Denson. “They had to write an essay about their favorite things about the Cyclops and the ride.”

The relocation isn’t permanent. For the next year and a half, Cyclops will be on display at museums in different parts of the country.  “I’m glad it’s going on tour. It will be nice to share it with the rest of the world,” Denson added. “The fact that it will be on display to a new audience will hopefully attract people to Coney.  There’s history there. Eventually, it will be back.”

Denson also hopes that the Cyclops will remind visitors that Spook-a-Rama, Coney’s famous spooky ride, is still open despite Superstorm Sandy damage.

Nonetheless, Coney (and art) lovers can’t wait for the Cyclops to return. “Kids who are scared when young come to love it when older. It represents their childhood. It caught people’s attention in ‘50s and now a new generation is appreciating it,” said Denson.