Iconic Illinois Roller Coaster To Be Named Coaster Landmark

Imagine how thrilling it must have been to first board this roller coaster when it opened in the early 80s.

It's funny because I remember seeing The American Eagle at Six Flags Great America when I was a child, probably 6 or 7 years after it opened.

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I was overwhelmed by The American Eagle. The wood tracks, the speed, and the noise from those riding the monstrosity made me nope out of line, in tears and full of shame, I had to walk back down just moments before stepping inside the cart.

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It was a long walk from what I remember, and my dad was not happy, but I just couldn't do it.

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I have since overcome my fear of The American Eagle and roller coasters, but I have never forgotten that feeling.

Not just of being scared but also of the thought that this was something bigger than me, it was amazing and frightening simultaneously.

Iconic Illinois Roller Coaster To Be Named Coaster Landmark

That's why I was pleased to see NBC report that American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) have announced they will now recognize The American Eagle as a Roller Coaster Landmark.

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According to their Facebook post, The American Eagle and Shock Wave (at Six Flags Over Texas) will join an elite group of 50 coasters nationwide, recognizing their lasting impact and continued operation. This June, she will be honored at Coaster Con 47 at Six Flags in Gurnee.

In case you weren't aware, when The American Eagle burst onto the scene in 1981, it was the world's tallest and fastest rollercoaster, and while it no longer holds those records, it is still the longest double-racing wooden coaster.

Congrats to The American Eagle for over 40 years of wowing patrons and even scaring a few kids at the same time.