I'm for bringing back the mule swing! I was the "mule driver" named "Ben Turning," in 1979. Opening line to those getting on the mule swing back then: "Howdy, Folks! I'm yer mule driver, Ben Turning, and I've been turning this mule around and around here a long time!" Yes, hokey, but it ALWAYS got a laugh.
The reason you don't see "work animals" on the streets of SDC now is probably the cost of insurance on an animal in a public space...just think if a mule ever kicked someone or broke loose and ran off down the street. Now, that NEVER happened even once in the entire 7 years I worked out there that I know of...but it could happen...and now is no different than back then. Unfortunately, you will probably never see the mule swing back again. Even then there were people who chewed me out at least once or twice a week for being cruel to an animal. So, there ya go! The mule swing, like other "lost" attractions, is part of that good ole romantic atmosphere at SDC in the days gone by. Happy memories, ya'll!