The Carters acquired their second adult ride, a set of Chair-o-planes, in 1978, and like the
Gallopers, the machine underwent a thorough restoration. However, a year earlier the
remains of a set of Steam Yachts were acquired from a scrap yard in Scotland, and were
stored until an engine could be found. With the help of Harry Lee, who was able to
supply an engine, the Carter family rebuilt the ride between 1982 - 84.
Carters' Fair now comprised three adult rides, two of which were steam driven. But
there is more to a fair than adult machines, and the family had also amassed a fine
collection of supporting attractions, including an impressive set of High Park Swings. In
addition, enthusiasts were beginning to take note of the transport, which included a fleet
of Scammell tractors that would eventually become the largest in the country. Absolute
perfection in every detail was clearly the hallmark of Carters' Fair. With immaculately
presented transport and period living vans, this was as good as vintage fairground could
get! John Carter once remarked that his fair looked better from the back than most did
from the front, and anyone who studied the meticulous positioning of the transport and
living vans would have to agree.
My first few visits to Carters' Steam Fair were made during the mid to late 1980s at
Blackheath, SE London, and it would have been difficult to imagine then how much the
fair would grow in future years. It was on one of my trips to Blackheath that I first met
the legendary Harry Lee, who was driving the yachts. Harry had been the last showman
to travel a set of steam yachts, and had been alone in this occupation for decades until he
retired in 1978 . His knowledge not only assisted the Carter family in the rebuild of
The Steam Yachts prior to opening, Blackheath 1986
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