Poor Jack Amusement's history dates back to 1944 when company founder, Jack Bohlander was introduced to the carnival business by his father.  At the time, Jack and his father owned and operated a pony ride, which evolved into concessions including cotton candy, snow cones, and shortly after, games.  In 1956, Jack's father retired from the carnival business and Jack and his wife Patricia took over.  They built the business by adding more rides and events, and in 1967, they signed their first major ride contract with the Johnson County Fair in Franklin, Indiana.  To this day, the Johnson County Fair has been a very memorable stop on the Poor Jack route.

Over the years, the show grew to operate 40+ amusement rides and operate from April through October in the states of Indiana and Ohio. 

Jack was a strong believer in his family and church. He was most pleased with being involved with a business that allowed his family to live, work, and play together. Jack was the President and CEO of Poor Jack Amusements until his death in 1997.

To this day, Poor Jack Amusements is still owned and operated by his wife Patricia and their five children and families.  Poor Jack Amusements has grow to be one of Indiana's premiere amusement companies, featuring a combination of modern day thrill rides such as the Freak Out and 1001 Nachts to family favorites such as the Carousel and Ferris Wheel.