Bible-Land was the brainchild of entrepreneur Phineas T. Farnsworth, who envisioned a place where Christians and unbelievers alike could see the pages of Scripture come to life. The photo above shows an opening-day crowd enjoying the Wrath of God ride just before it plummeted two stories into the Pit of Hell underground exhibit and barbeque concession. Though complaints of singed eyebrows and smoke inhalation were numerous, Farnsworth felt the ride was necessary in order for visitors to better appreciate the Grace of God aerial transom that carried them to Salvation Mountain.

Sadly, Farnsworth would see his venture largely ignored by the public because of his refusal to compromise the park’s doctrinal stance. When a rival amusement park, Osteen World, opened across the street to popular acclaim, Bible-Land became a virtual ghost town and closed seven months later. A Walmart Supercenter is currently occupying the property.