Rehoboth historical society to host Funland book launch party May 16

The Rehoboth Beach Historical Society will host a book launch for “Land of Fun: the Story of an Old-Fashioned Amusement Part for the Ages,” with author Chris Lindsley, at 7 p.m., Thursday, May 16, at the Rehoboth Beach Museum. 

The book, part history and part memoir, is a feel-good story about a timeless Rehoboth Beach amusement park, Funland, and how the family that runs it has touched millions of lives and created unforgettable summer memories for generations since 1962. The book traces back to 1939, when Rehoboth Beach Sport Center opened at the same location that Funland occupies today and talks about the Fasnacht family’s purchase of the sport center in 1962.

Readers will discover the old-school values of Al Fasnacht who, at 90, along with four generations of his family, has created a Rehoboth Beach institution by focusing on the customer experience rather than profits. This book transports readers from today’s me generation to a simpler time where the priority was to make people happy by providing safe and affordable fun for the entire family, and to keep them coming back.

Funland is definitely a Rehoboth Beach institution with a rich history. “Everyone I meet has memories of Funland to share,” said Marge LaFond, program assistant. “We hope people will come to hear Chris and family patriarch Al Fasnacht tell their stories as well as share their own memories.” There will be time for attendees to ask questions. Lindsley will sign copies of the book, which will be available for purchase.

Space may be limited, so reservations are required; to ensure a space, call 302-227-7310. The program is free for members. A $5 donation is suggested for nonmembers. The museum is at 511 Rehoboth Ave. There is free parking and the museum is handicapped accessible.

For more information, go to www.land-of-fun.com and www.rehobothbeachmuseum.org.