In the heart of North Attleboro, Massachusetts, a vibrant beacon of entertainment once stood, known affectionately as Jolly Cholly’s Funland. This iconic destination, which routinely caused traffic to back up for miles, is now a vanished site, existing only in cherished memories and historical archives. The story of Jolly Cholly’s is a classic tale of American roadside attraction evolution, from a humble dairy bar to a bustling amusement park that captivated generations.
The Genesis of Jolly Cholly: From Dairy Bar to Entertainment Hub
The origins of what would become one of the area’s most beloved amusement parks trace back to 1954 when Charles M. Nasif and his wife, Helen, embarked on a new venture. They opened a modest dairy bar at 171 East Washington Street in North Attleboro. Charles Nasif was no stranger to the amusement industry, having previously served as a ride concessionaire at Rocky Point Park in Warwick, Rhode Island. His experience there, coupled with the impact of the park’s destruction by a hurricane in 1938, likely fueled his vision for a resilient and thriving entertainment spot.
The initial site for the dairy bar was strategically chosen on swampland, which was undoubtedly an economical acquisition for the Nasifs. Starting with simple offerings like soft-serve ice cream and refreshing soft drinks, the couple quickly recognized the potential for expansion. Their menu soon grew to include hamburgers, prompting a renaming of the business to Jolly Cholly Dairy Bar Beef Burgers. Later that same year, Charles Nasif opened a second building dedicated to Italian cuisine, serving pizza and other delights. Over time, crowd-pleasers like fried clams and beer were also added, cementing Jolly Cholly’s reputation as a comprehensive eatery.
Building the Funland: Rides, Attractions, and Iconic Features
The years following the dairy bar’s opening saw continuous expansion. The Nasifs steadily acquired more land, eventually owning a sprawling 12-acre property. In 1958, the entertainment offerings broadened significantly with the introduction of a miniature golf course. The following year, the ambitious Jolly Cholly Funland was officially established, located directly across the parking lot from the burgeoning restaurant complex. This new amusement park featured an array of classic rides designed to delight visitors of all ages, including a charming carousel, a towering Ferris wheel, a spirited Kiddie Whip, children’s boats, and a popular roadway ride.
Innovation continued into the new decade, with a roller coaster making its debut in 1960. By 1965, a train ride was added, further enhancing the park’s appeal. Jolly Cholly’s also catered to older thrill-seekers, introducing more intense attractions like the exhilarating Himalaya and a dizzying Rodeo carousel-type ride that became a particular favorite among teenagers. The most distinctive and memorable feature of the amusement park, however, was its iconic Giant Clown. With its legs forming an impressive archway, this colossal clown served as the whimsical entrance, welcoming countless visitors into a world of fun.
A Hub of Activity: Teens, Families, and Flea Markets
Throughout its heyday, Jolly Cholly’s was much more than just a restaurant and amusement park; it was a vibrant community hub. Its expansive parking lot, in particular, became a popular gathering spot for teenagers on weekends. The scene was classic American drive-in culture, with waitresses on roller skates zipping around, taking orders, and delivering trays laden with pizzas, burgers, french fries, and drinks directly to car windows. To further enhance its appeal and draw in crowds, Charles Nasif collaborated with Rhode Island radio and TV personality Salty Brine, who made numerous park appearances and even had a plywood cutout of his likeness proudly displayed on the pizza building’s roof.
Demonstrating their entrepreneurial spirit, the Nasifs also initiated weekend flea markets on the property starting in 1965, offering yet another reason for people to visit. Over time, the demographic of Jolly Cholly’s evolved. While initially a magnet for teenagers, it gradually transformed into a beloved destination where parents brought their small children, creating new family memories with each visit.
The Decline and Disappearance of a Landmark
The era of Nasif ownership concluded in 1972 when Charles and Helen sold the entire 18-acre amusement and restaurant facility. The subsequent owners opted to rename the park
