La Marcus Thompson

American inventor

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July 16, 2026

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LaMarcus Adna Thompson, often called the "Father of the Gravity Ride," was an American inventor who revolutionized amusement parks. Inspired by gravity-driven coal railways, Thompson envisioned a safer, family-friendly version for entertainment. In 1884, he opened the Gravity Pleasure Switchback Railway at Coney Island, which quickly became a sensation, paying for itself in just three weeks.1

Thompson's innovation was not just a single ride; it launched an entire industry. He went on to design at least 50 roller coasters across Europe and North America, making the roller coaster a staple of amusement parks. His work laid the foundation for the thrilling rides enjoyed by millions today.1

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roller coaster
Coney Island amusement park
In 1884 inventor La Marcus Thompson, the “Father of the Gravity Ride,” had opened a 600-foot (183-metre) switchback railway at Coney Island. With a top speed of 6 miles (9 km) per hour, Thompson’s ride, called the Switchback Railway, was little more than a leisurely gravity-powered tour of…
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In 1884 inventor La Marcus Thompson, the “Father of the Gravity Ride,” had opened a 600-foot (183-metre) switchback railway at Coney Island. With a top speed of 6 miles (9 km) per hour, Thompson’s ride, called the Switchback Railway, was little more than a leisurely gravity-powered tour of…
Read More