The object I have chosen to focus on is a simple Brass Ring from the ring machine on Nunley’s Carousel.
This is a simple object measuring one inch in diameter. It is about the same size as the circle your hand makes when giving an okay sign. There is not much description I can give to this simple brass colored ring. It’s slightly heavier than it looks and is worth more than it seems for being so small in size. There’s a slight black line where this has been molded together to form a perfect circle. There are only 19 carousels left in the world who use ring machines, making this even more of a rarity to have in my possession.
Why did I choose an object so round and simple? It is because to me, it is the exact opposite. Every object has its own story to tell. The only thing that can stand out beyond the shimmering brass is the dirt and scuffs on it from being well used by those who have been lucky enough to “grab the brass ring.” These blemishes are hidden behind countless memories. There is only a 1 in 25 chance of grabbing this ring every ride making it a challenge to win the free ride that the brass ring comes with. Although made of brass, giving this object some value, it is generally returned in exchange for the satisfying free ride.
The phrase “grabbing the brass ring” usually refers to a success in life. When I have seen those lucky enough to grab one on the carousel to them, this moment is just that. I can guarantee every single person who has rode the carousel will remember the time they grabbed this brass ring. The shiny brass taken from the right angles by my simple iphone camera showed its beauty. With each click of the camera I remembered the hundreds of photos of smiling people holding this exact ring.
I spent 5 years raising money to restore the historic Nunley’s Carousel. I raised $91,000 in second grade to bring back this carousel. Now, I have worked there for over 6 years and see the value this carousel holds generation after generation. I used to wear the ring around my neck during this project. I have always felt connected to this ring. This assignment has reminded me of how important this carousel is to me. Although it is nuisance to load the ring machine every ride, the happiness I realize it brings are absolutely worth it.
Every single person that rode the over 100 year old carousel has had a story to tell about the time they got the brass ring or at least attempted to. The circle ring represents the full circle the carousel made by being restored and brought back to life. When I hold the ring I picture all the events that led us to finally being restored and brought back close to its original location. Every single day grandparents bring their children and their children’s children to ride the same horses they have been riding for generations. I have watched countless number of kids finally grow up and are able to reach the brass ring.
Here is more information on the Carousel https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nunley%27sAlso on the history of ring machines and the importance of the brass ring: https://henssgenhardware.com/history-of-brass-rings/
The Materials of History, Thought, and Art 
I have heard you share some stories before about this carousel, but this could be my favorite. Learning about these brass rings and the fun and tradition behind it, is heartwarming. I worked at a carousel in my hometown upstate, for a couple years but we don’t have this brass ring system. Binghamton is known as the carousel capital of the world, as we have 6 located around the area, that are historical landmarks that were built during the 1920’s and 30’s, most donated by George F. Johnson. Our carousels are known for being free of cost, but I am curious to know if they’ve ever had brass rings like these, and how the history of these carousels might change because of that.
I like how you describe this object—how it seems so simple, but is the exact opposite for you. This contradiction shows us how objects are subjective. I may look at that ring, have no idea what it’s used for, and just completely glance over it, not thinking twice about it—it’s just a metal ring. However, when you look at it, and hold it in your hands, it means something so different to you, bringing up all the fond memories associated with it. I also think you do a great job of actually describing such a “limited” object. Your description of its size—resembling the circle your fingers make when doing the okay sign—is such a genius way to allow the audience to connect to the object when we can’t see it in person or physically hold it. When I read that description, I immediately made that shape with my hand, and it gave me an understanding of the magnitude of the ring. The story connected to this object is also very touching, and it’s evident how much the ring and the carousel mean to you. It has a very sweet effect, as you describe, of putting smiles on people’s faces, and bringing back memories.
I love the description you give of your object. Along with the picture, you provided really detailed descriptions that really helped me to paint the picture in my head as if I was holding the ring myself. I also enjoyed your description of it’s significance as well. It is so fascinating the history behind this carousel and how each person who rode it has a different story. You mentioned that the circle ring represents the full circle the carousel made by being restored and brought back to life. I believe that like a circle represents eternity the significance and memories this carousel has brought into your life and the life of others will last forever.