‘Idlewild’ author researching book on Western Pennsylvania’s lost amusement parks

A family poses for a portrait in this period photo taken at Eldora Park in Carroll Township, Washington County. The Donora Historical Society provided the image to Jennifer Sopko for use in her planned book about the lost amusement parks of Western Pennsylvania.

This vintage postcard shows visitors enjoying recreation and relaxation on the lake at Olympia Park near McKeesport. Andrea Cartwright, McKeesport Regional History & Heritage Center board member, provided the image to Jennifer Sopko for use in her planned book about the lost amusement parks of Western Pennsylvania.

This mid-20th century photo shows visitors exploring the lake at West View Park in Allegheny County’s North Hills. The Dips roller coaster can be seen in the background. This image from the collection of Mary Alioto was provided for use in a book about the park being prepared by her grandson, Mike Funyak.