With it’s ‘onion’ or ‘teardrop’ toppers, as they have been affectionately known through the years, the Big Dipper has become symbolic to thrill-seeking rollercoaster enthusiasts – it’s the one everyone knows. As Blackpool Pleasure Beach opens it’s gates for the 2023 season, the Big Dipper will take centre stage with celebrations planned for it’s actual anniversary on August 23. These pictures, courtesy of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, have been rarely seen, they are a real treat and show the rollercoaster from construction right through the decades.
In case you missed them: 21 scenes of Blackpool Pleasure Beach in the 90s - the park, the people and the rides including Avalanche, Playstation and The Big One
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13. Big Dipper - 100 Years of Memories
The Big Dipper under construction - It is situated on the site of the Switchback Railway which was one of the first rides to open at the Pleasure Beach Photo: Blackpool Pleasure Beach Archives
14. Big Dipper - 100 Years of Memories
A super aerial photo of the Pleasure Beach in 1923. The Big Dipper and the Grand National are clearly defined. The idea for the Big Dipper came from John Miller and Harry Baker from Chicago who made made great advances into roller coaster technology in 1914 Photo: National World
15. Big Dipper - 100 Years of Memories
This was in 1953 and the 'onion' as it is affectionately known, is missing. It was its 30th anniversary, maybe it had gone for a refurb, just like it did earlier this year for its centenary. Or was it being replaced? Photo: Blackpool Pleasure Beach Archives
16. Big Dipper - 100 Years of Memories
Track maintenance in 1953. When it was first built, contractors who helped build the ride included Pilkington Brothers in Accrington for ropes and pulleys, J Holden for prints and Fleetwood Trawlers. In total more than 200 contractors were used Photo: National World
17. Big Dipper - 100 Years of Memories
Men working on the structure which would support the 'onion' as it is affectionately known, during construction. The original idea for the roller coaster was in 1921 and it was opened on 23rd August 1923 Photo: Blackpool Pleasure Beach Archives
18. Big Dipper at 100
American Richard Rodriguez, 39, a teacher from New York, celebrated breaking a world record after riding the Big Dipper for 2,000 hours since June 9th 2000. The existing record of 1,013 hours was orginally set by Mr Rodriguez two years earlier but he wanted to do something special to mark the Millennium and raise money for terminally ill children Photo: SEAN DEMPSEY