A Timeline of Reithoffer History
1800s
1896
Julius Reithoffer inaugurates “Reithoffer Shows” and begins a show business dynasty.
1896
Julius Reithoffer begins the show with the purchase of a steam-driven carousel.
1900s
1918
Reithoffer expand their route by taking the show from railways to roadways.
1924
Pat Reithoffer Sr. invents the first automobile ride.
1929
Pat Sr. brings the Reithoffer Shows through the Depression by breaking the show into units and focusing on rides.
1945
Pat, Jr. returns from the war and a new generation of Reithoffer excitement begins.
1960
Pat Jr. brings super spectaculars to the midway.
1970
Pat III takes charge of the Orange Unit
1972
Rick takes Blue Unit on the road.
1973
Pat Jr. purchases the antique Gavioli calliope bandwagon.
2000s
2000
With a fifth generation of Reithoffers already in training, the Reithoffers are shaping the future of American carnivals. Now, as ever, they’re the ticket to ride…..into the next millennium.
