How a devastating flood forced a legendary amusement park to relocate

Countries & Cities · Published 9 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: In 1964, a massive flood submerged Cincinnati's Coney Island under 14 feet of water. This disaster sparked a high-stakes relocation effort that eventually birthed Kings Island, a 364-acre destination that would revive the global roller coaster industry and host world-record-breaking stunts.

The genesis of Kings Island lies in the instability of its predecessor, Coney Island. Located along the Ohio River, the original park suffered frequent flooding, culminating in a catastrophic 1964 event where water levels reached 14 feet. This disaster, the fourth highest on record, forced the organization to consider moving to higher ground to ensure long-term viability and expansion.

The transition was not without friction. While Gary Wachs proposed relocation to stay competitive, some board members, including stockholder Charles Sawyer, initially opposed the move. The project gained momentum only after actor Fess Parker announced his own plans for a theme park in Northern Kentucky. Ultimately, Taft Broadcasting purchased Coney Island in 1969 for $6.5 million and 1,600 acres in Warren County, Ohio, for $3.2 million, paving the way for the new park.

Opening on April 29, 1972, Kings Island quickly became a cultural phenomenon. It gained national fame through appearances on sitcoms like The Brady Bunch and The Partridge Family. The park also became a stage for historic feats, such as Karl Wallenda’s 1,800-foot tightrope skywalk in 1974 and Evel Knievel’s record-breaking 133-foot jump over fourteen buses in 1975. These events, broadcast live to millions, cemented the park's place in American pop culture.

Beyond the spectacle, the park drove industry innovation. The Racer, a wooden coaster designed by John C. Allen, is credited with sparking a worldwide roller coaster renaissance in the 1970s. Today, the park remains a massive operation under Six Flags, featuring over a hundred attractions, including fifteen roller coasters and the 33-acre Soak City water park.

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