Dick Knoebel
Dick Knoebel
Year Inducted:
2014
Early Life and Education
Dick Knoebel was born in 1939 into the family behind Knoebels Grove, a picnic and swimming retreat started by his grandfather in 1926 in Elysburg, Pennsylvania. Growing up immersed in the business, Dick developed a deep appreciation for tradition, hospitality, and fun. A lover of scouting, he earned the rank of Eagle Scout in 1953, and went on to graduate from Lehigh University in 1962 with a B.S. in Engineering Geophysics – a strong foundation that would later serve him well as he helped shape the park’s future.
Military and Family Life
Wanting to serve his country, Dick joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1962 and trained as an Aircraft Maintenance Officer, strengthening his technical expertise and sharpening his leadership abilities. He did tours in the US and Japan, eventually attaining the rank of Captain. Returning to civilian life, he married Barbara Cook in 1968. Barbara played a key role in the park’s success, managing its extensive catering operations. Together they raised two sons, Rick and Brian, who continue the Knoebel family legacy today.
Leadership and Growth at Knoebels
Dick became President of H.H. Knoebel Sons Inc. in 1988. Under his leadership, Knoebels expanded significantly, becoming the largest free-admission amusement park in the U.S. with over 1.4 million annual guests. His hands-on style, technical knowledge, and love of classic rides shaped the park’s unique blend of nostalgia and innovation.
Innovation and Preservation
Dick’s passion for preserving classic amusement experiences while pushing the boundaries of innovation has been a hallmark of his leadership. In 1985, he orchestrated the remarkable relocation and restoration of the Rocket wooden roller coaster, originally built in 1947 at Playland Park in San Antonio, Texas. This ambitious project involved carefully dismantling the defunct coaster, transporting it over 1,700 miles, and meticulously reconstructing it at Knoebels. Renamed the Phoenix, the ride has since become an icon in the coaster community, consistently ranked among the world’s best wooden coasters for its thrilling yet smooth ride and nostalgic charm.
Continuing his commitment to unique ride experiences, Dick spearheaded the creation of Flying Turns, which opened in 2013. This one-of-a-kind wooden bobsled coaster was inspired by a lost genre of amusement rides popular in the 1920s and 1930s. After more than seven years of intensive engineering and craftsmanship, Knoebels successfully brought this complex, gravity-driven coaster back to life—defying industry skeptics who believed it impossible.
Beyond these signature projects, Dick has championed the preservation and enhancement of many other historical rides and attractions. He played a significant part in the purchase and restoration of such rare or unique rides as the Flyer, the Looper, the Roto-Jets, the Haunted Mansion, and most recently the Rock-O-Plane, each carefully preserved to maintain their original charm while meeting modern safety standards.
Industry and Community Leadership
Dick has held leadership roles with both IAAPA and PAPA, serving as IAAPA Board Director and PAPA President. He has supported community organizations including the Boy Scouts, Elysburg Presbyterian Church, and numerous regional boards. A 33rd-degree Freemason, Dick is widely respected for his integrity and service.
Awards and Recognition
Dick’s many honors include induction into the IAAPA Hall of Fame (2014), Amusement Today Person of the Year (2009), and multiple Golden Ticket Awards including #1 Wooden Coaster, #1 Best Park Food, and the Legacy Award for the Best Grand Carousel. He also received the Ray Ueberroth Preservation Award, the Distinguished Citizen Award from the Boy Scouts, and was named Man of the Year by the Pennsylvania State Showmen’s Association.
Legacy and the Next Century
As Knoebels approaches its 100th anniversary in 2026, the park stands as a lasting testament to Dick Knoebel’s unwavering commitment to both innovation and preservation offering guests timeless, authentic amusement experiences that honor the past while embracing the future.