Unlocking Walt Disney World
In this special episode of Unlocking The Magic, we celebrate 50 years of Walt Disney World by sharing the incredible story of how the most magical place on earth was created- the idea that turned into reality by the help of an incredible man that would not give up on his late brothers dreams. We have “the keys” and are unlocking the past, present and future of the most premiered destination in the galaxy.
It is hard to believe that Walt Disney World turns 50 on October 1st 2021. But to get to present day we first begin the show by discussing the creation of Disneyland and the reaction of others when Walt Disney wanted to create this “amusement enterprise”.
Most probably think that Walt’s path to success came along easy. But every idea seemed to have some kind of pushback. When Disneyland officially opened in 1955, the press wasn’t exactly friendly on Walt Disney’s newest venture either.
Straight from a news article in 1955:
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People thought Walt Disney was absolutely crazy but that quickly turned around with Disneyland welcoming its -one millionth- guest in september of 1955 only two months after opening.
Soon after the tremendous success of Disneyland, everyone wanted this new park to be built in their hometown. Walt Disney wanted to be sure that he selected the right place.
Starting in the early 1960s, Walt and Roy Disney began searching for an area on the East Coast where they could build a new Disney park. Walt Disney also knew he needed a site with a pleasant climate. In Florida, the climate seemed the best and most importantly, there was land available, so they secretly began buying up all the land they could..eventually ending up with an incredible 27,500 acres.
A press conference was put together at the Cherry Plaza Hotel in Orlando, and Walt and Roy announced their plans on November 15, 1965.
Sadly only a few months after this was filmed, Walt Disney unexpectedly passed away. Walt Disney’s brother Roy, who was 73 years old, and ready to retire, decided to stay with the development to see that Walt’s final project was built.
The importance of naming the resort.
As early as the company annual report for 1967, Roy referred to the project as “Walt Disney World” rather than simply “Disney World.” Roy insisted on the “Walt,” states Marty Sklar in his book Dream It! Do It.
Opening day , October 1 1971.. “The first phase consisted of the Magic Kingdom park, and only two hotels- Disney’s Contemporary Resort, and Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.
While the park officially opened on October 1st, it was not until October 25th, 1971, that Disney held its grand opening and dedication ceremony. Roy O. Disney read a dedication plaque aloud with Mickey Mouse.
Roy’s statue:
A statue of Roy Disney, on a bench with Minnie Mouse, was installed in Town Square at the Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom on October 1, 1999, and dedicated on October 25th .This statue is the first you see when walking down main street even before Walt Disney’s!
Changes over the years
Since opening there have been so many changes. With the addition of the many other parks, Epcot, Disney’s MGM Studios (present day Hollywood Studios), Animal Kingdom and of course all the amazing resort hotels. Walt Disney World truly has become a destination unlike any other.
In 1994 Walt Disney World welcomed the one billionth guest worldwide to enter a Disney park! :source d23
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Thanks For Listening
Hope you enjoyed this episode!
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