John Miller designed and built this ride in 1927. It was originally called the Deep Dips.
The pictures appearing below are courtesy of Mr. Leo W. Pike. In 1946 or 1947, after returning home from World War II, Mr. Pike worked at Jefferson Beach Park, located in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit. He ran and maintained the coaster, which by this time had been re-named the Big Dipper. Mr. Pike spent his entire working life in the amusement business. He is now retired.
![[The Big Dipper at Jefferson Beach]](leo_1.jpg)
Entrance to the ride at Jefferson Beach. Mr. Leo Pike is at the left.
To the right is Mr. Pike's brother, Clyde Pike.
![[The Big Dipper at Jefferson Beach]](leo_3.jpg)
Mr. Leo Pike in the Big Dipper's station.
![[The Big Dipper at Jefferson Beach]](leo_4.jpg)
The Big Dipper's lift hill. Mr. Clyde Pike is the only rider.
![[The Big Dipper at Jefferson Beach]](leo_2.jpg)
The Big Dipper's tracks.
![[The Big Dipper at Jefferson Beach]](leo_5.jpg)
Mr. Leo Pike in front of the Big Dipper's lift hill.