Nantucket Tony Sarg “Sea Monster” Serpent with Marshall Gardiner Real Photo Postcard

A giant walk-through shark sculpture, serving as a novelty attraction, was a common sight at seaside amusement parks and boardwalks during the early to mid-20th century. These large-scale, often whimsical structures were designed to draw crowds, offering an interactive experience and a unique photo opportunity for visitors, many of whom are seen gathering around its open jaws, preparing to enter.

Such roadside attractions flourished in an era of expanding automobile travel and increased access to leisure, providing memorable entertainment for families at popular vacation destinations. They represent a significant aspect of American folk art and amusement history, reflecting a period when imaginative, often handcrafted, displays captivated the public and contributed to the unique character of recreational landscapes.