Cannon Ball

1927. The Cannon Ball was built 40 years later, opening in 1967.

“This year we are celebrating its 50th year and are thrilled that they (the ACE) are bestoying honor,” she said.

As part of their visit, ACE members will have exclusive access to the Cannon Ball, the Boat Chute, the FlyO-Plane and Wild Lightin — the park’s most historic rides — during the first hour of the park being open and prior to the 11:30 a.m. plaque dedication.

“Lake Winnie is a traditional park in every sense – from their classic, made-in-house boat chute ride to the new ACE Roller Coaster Landmark Cannon Ball,” said Jerry Willard, ACE president. “The park exemplifies the colorful history of amusement parks, so it’s a natural favorite of ACE members.” A ceremony honoring the 50-year-old beloved coaster will take place at 11:30 a.m., May 20.

“Roller coasters like Cannon Ball and the smaller traditional parks are rarer than most people think,” said Tim Baldwin, ACE communications director. “In the rise of theme parks during the later decades of the 20th century, many such parks and rides were lost because of changing times. Of all the wooden roller coasters built in the 1960s in the United States, Cannon Ball is one of a mere handful that remains. It’s a champion. We’re thrilled it’s still around.”

ACE organizes two national conferences a year, in addition to one week-long annual convention. The 2017 Preservation Conference starts at Alabama Splash Adventure (Bessemer/Birmingham) on Friday and concludes Sunday at Six Flags Over Georgia (Atlanta).

For more information, visit www.lakewinnie.com or call 1-877-LAKEWIN.