Before We Knew Better

This 1940s footage from Coney Island brought back memories of when the carnival came to my home town. People flying through the air without belt or harness, grasping onto chains and bars, trusting in the mystery of centrifugal force. Back when there was no downside to ice cream and hot dogs, and burn & peel was the path to a ‘healthy’ skin tone. Back when many thought it acceptable to take amusement at the expense of others as long as you paid an admission fee.

“Before We Knew Better” looks back at a time when life seemed freer and easier. When we could ride the ride without regard to risk. Back when innocence was unencumbered by consequence.

Imagery taken from "Coney Island" ca. 1940s. No attribution given.
Imagery edited, processed and re-mixed by Dave Tilton.
Music "Before We Knew Better" by Dave Tilton ©2023.