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FAMILY HISTORY ~ Sunday, February 6, 1859 

ELIAS CHARLES DISNEY is born in Bluevale, Ontario, Canada to Kepple Disney and Mary Richardson-Disney.

FAMILY HISTORY ~ Wednesday, April 22, 1868

FLORA CALL is born in Steuben, Ohio to Charles Call and  Henrietta Gross-Call.

FAMILY HISTORY ~ Sunday, January 1, 1888

ELIAS C. DISNEY and FLORA CALL are married on New Year's Day in Kismet, Florida, 40 miles north of the future home of Walt Disney World.

FAMILY HISTORY ~  Saturday, June 24, 1893

ROY OLIVER DISNEY [future CFO of the Walt Disney Company] is born at home in Chicago, Illinois.

FAMILY HISTORY ~ Saturday, October 31, 1891

Elias Disney buys a PARCEL OF LAND on the corner of Tripp and Palmer Streets in Chicago, Illinois. Using plans drawn by Flora, he builds a house on the property where his youngest children will be born.

FAMILY HISTORY ~ October, 1893

The DISNEY FAMILY MOVES into their finished home at 1249 Tripp Avenue in the Hermosa section of Chicago, Illinois.

FAMILY HISTORY ~ Thursday, December 5, 1901

WALTER ELIAS DISNEY [founder and future CEO of the Walt Disney Company] is born at home on 1249 Tripp Avenue in the Hermosa section of Chicago, Illinois.

FAMILY HISTORY ~ Saturday, February 10, 1906

The Disney Family SELL THEIR HOME in Chicago and move to a small farm in Marceline, Missouri.

FAMILY HISTORY ~ 1911

Ten year old, Walt Disney moves with his family to Kansas City, Missouri after the farm fails.

FAMILY HISTORY ~ September, 1917

Walt Disney enrolls at McKinley High School in Chicago after his father, Elias buys stock in a Chicago based Jelly company called O-Zell.

FAMILY HISTORY ~ September, 1918

Under-aged, Walt Disney enlists into the Army Ambulance Corp. with his mother's signature and is sent to France near the end of World War I.

FAMILY HISTORY ~  July, 1923

Walt Disney moves to Los Angeles, California and starts the Disney Brothers Studio with his brother, Roy in his Uncle Robert Disney's garage.

NEWS ITEM ~ Monday, July 13, 1925

WALTER ELIAS DISNEY and LILLIAN BOUNDS [both from Hollywood, California] are married in Lewiston, Nez Pierce County, Idaho. Witnesses include Hazel B. Sewell [Lillian's sister] and Sydney O. Bounds by an Episcopalian Minister.

NEWS ITEM ~ Saturday, August 10, 1935

RON DOMINGUEZ is born on farm land in Anaheim, California that will eventually become Disneyland. The 30 acre farm land had been purchased by his grandfather.

NEWS ITEM ~ Wednesday, August 31, 1938
WALT and ROY DISNEY put a deposit on 51 acres of land in Burbank, California to build their new animation studio. This facility will prove important to the planning of Disneyland in future years.

NEWS ITEM ~ Monday, May 6, 1940
The new WALT DISNEY ANIMATION STUDIO is completed at Buena Vista Street in Burbank, California. The new streamlined animation department and tree lined private roads made working at the new studio easier for the staff.

NEWS ITEM ~ Tuesday, August 8, 1948
Walt Disney writes a memo to Dick Kelsey outlining his ideas for a DISNEY-INSPIRED AMUSEMENT PARK.

NEWS ITEM ~ Monday, May 15, 1950
The LILLY BELLE STEAM ENGINE, a prototype to Walt’s full sized Disneyland stream train debuts at Walt’s backyard in Holmby Hills, California until 1953.

NEWS ITEM ~ Thursday, March 27, 1952
Walt Disney makes the FIRST PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT of plans to build “Disneyland” on Riverside Drive in Burbank across the street from his studios at a cost of $1,500,000. After some planning, the site is deemed too small and Walt begins looking for a larger property. Harper Goff draws the original renderings for the Burbank property. 

NEWS ITEM ~ December, 1952
WALT DISNEY INC. is formed to plan the new theme park. This will eventually be called W.E.D. Enterprises [for Walt Elias Disney] headed by Bill Cotrell.

NEWS ITEM ~ July, 1953
Disney commissions the STANFORD RESEARCH INSTITUTE and Harrison “Buzz” Price to look for a location in California to build Disneyland.

NEWS ITEM ~ July, 1953
On early drawings of Disneyland, TRUE-LIFE ADVENTURELAND is placed on the east side of the park. It will be based on the lands and culture of Africa, Asian and Polynesian.

NEWS ITEM ~ August, 1953
ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA in Orange County is selected for the site of the new theme park. This 160 acre parcel of land is currently orange and walnut trees privately owned by local farmers.

NEWS ITEM ~ Wednesday, September 23, 1953
Walt and his staff spend 48 straight hours at the studio with Herb Ryman creating a VISUAL PRESENTATION OF DISNEYLAND for the Bankers to see, thus hoping they will invest in the project and loan the studio money. These drawing became the blueprint for the Disneyland that is built.

NEWS ITEM ~ Thursday, October 8, 1953
Planning begins for HOLIDAY-LAND in the new Anaheim Park. This area will be located outside of the berm.

NEWS ITEM ~ October, 1953
OPERATIONAL PLANNING begins for the day to day running of Disneyland. Their original estimate is that 5 million per year will visit Disneyland and it will require $9 million in capital costs. It took $17 million to open the main gates much of which was provided by corporate sponsors.

NEWS ITEM ~ 1953
Plans are drawn up for build LILLIPUTIAN LAND in an area north of Tomorrowland. It was to be a miniature scale land. This area was later changed and re-adapted.

NEWS ITEM ~ 1953
Plans are drawn up for an INTERNATIONAL LAND to be located north of Tomorrowland that would represent the many nations of the world. This area was never built. 

NEWS ITEM ~ January, 1954
Selected Disney Staff members begin TOURING AMERICAN AMUSEMENT PARKS to get an idea of what to do and what not to do. These include the nearby Knott’s Berry Farm and several local and state fairs.

ON THE AIR ~ Friday, April 2, 1954
Walt agrees to produce a weekly television show for ABC in return for funding. He will call the TV show simply “DISNEYLAND”.

NEWS ITEM ~ Monday, April 19, 1954
Retired Rear ADMIRAL JOE FOWLER begins working at Disneyland, as a consultant for all the water vehicles being built at the park including the Mark Twain Steam Boat and later became the construction boos of the entire project.

NEWS ITEM ~ Spring, 1954
MILT ALBRIGHT, working in studios’ payroll department since 1947, Milt is promoted to manager of accounting for Disneyland.

NEWS ITEM ~ Saturday, May 1, 1954
The ANAHEIM BULLETIN NEWSPAPER breaks the story of Walt’s plans to build a theme park in Anaheim, California.

NEWS ITEM ~ Friday, July 16, 1954
With ONE YEAR TO GO until the grand opening, 180 acres of Anaheim orange groves begin to be cleared and surveyed. To finance Disneyland, Walt Disney sells a vacation home and borrows against his life insurance, as well as speaking to corporations about investing in exchange for a presence in the new park.

NEWS ITEM ~ 1954
Walt Disney decides that TOMORROWLAND’S DESIGN will be based on the future year of 1986.  This is the date of the return of Halley’s Comet.

NEWS ITEM ~ Wednesday, July 21, 1954
GROUND IS BROKEN to begin construction for Disneyland on the 180 acre site in Anaheim, California.

NEWS ITEM ~ Friday, August 13, 1954
EXCAVATION BEGINS at the Disneyland project site. There are 4,000 orange trees and less than 20 houses on the property which must be dug up and moved or torn down. Only two or three of these houses will be saved to use as Disneyland offices.

NEWS ITEM ~ Wednesday, August 25, 1954
A formal GROUND BREAKING CEREMONY for Disneyland is cancelled, as it is thought more important to keep the work schedule going and finish the project by deadline.

NEWS ITEM ~ 1954
The OPERA HOUSE on Main Street becomes the first building finished during Disneyland’s construction. It will serve as the Disneyland Mill, where workers can produce intricate woodworking needed for various construction projects at Disneyland. It will remain open until 1960.

NEWS ITEM ~ Sunday, October 10, 1954
A WORK PROGRESS MEMO from the Disneyland construction team reports that there is progress in all areas of the new park, but Tomorrowland is not even mentioned.

NEWS ITEM ~ Friday, October 15, 1954
The ELEVATED DIRT BERM that will surround Disneyland is now nearly completed.

ON THE AIR ~ Sunday, October 27, 1954
“DISNEYLAND” Season 1, Episode 1 ~ “The Disneyland Story” features Walt Disney Takes viewers on a quick tour of the studio before introducing the public to his new theme park and talks about Mickey Mouse’s history.

NEWS ITEM ~ Fall, 1954
Walt Disney makes the difficult decision to STOP WORKING ON TOMORROWLAND, as there appears to be not enough time to finish it before the July 17th opening.

NEWS ITEM ~ 1954
An 1875 DENTZEL CARROUSEL is purchased and moved to Disneyland. It had previously been operated at the Sunnyside Beach Park in Toronto, Ontario, Canada since 1922. It contained three courses of carved horses and other animals when purchased. Walt decided he would like a carrousel of all horses and a search was begun to find more antique carved horses.

ON THE AIR ~ Wednesday, October 27, 1954
SEASON ONE OF “DISNEYLAND” runs weekly until Wednesday, July 13, 1955. It is on ABC-TV hosted by Walt Disney. The theme song was “When You Wish Upon a Star”. This season featured the wildly popular Dave Crockett series and the Dateline: Disneyland show that featured the opening of Disneyland on July 17, 1955.

ON THE AIR ~ Wednesday, October 27, 1954
Episode one of Season 1 ~ DISNEYLAND: "THE DISNEYLAND STORY" airs on ABC (first episode of Disneyland television show). Hosted by Walt, it features previews of upcoming attractions being built in the new theme park and a history of Mickey Mouse’s film career.

ON THE AIR ~ Sunday, December 15, 1954
“DISNEYLAND” Season 1, Episode 8 ~ “Davy Crockett, Indian Fighter” airs. This is part 1 of a 3 part series where Davy and George Russell try to make a truce with the Indians. 

NEWS ITEM ~ Saturday, January 1, 1955
Helm’s Bakery enters a float in the PASADENA TOURNAMENT OF ROSES PARADE with a Disney theme. This float features Mickey Mouse, Dumbo and a series of flying pink elephants and helps to publicize the upcoming opening of Disneyland. It wins the Judges Special Award. The Firehouse Five Plus Two performs on the float.

NEWS ITEM ~ January, 1955
Plans for Disneyland indicate that the FRONTIERLAND MINIATURES MUSEUM is still being constructed despite the fact that this attraction was not in the park on opening day in July.

NEWS ITEM ~ January, 1955
The Walt Disney Company announces PLANS TO BUILD A HOTEL on property across from Disneyland off of West Street. It will cost $10 million and be designed by architects, Pereira & Luckman. It will be owned and run by the Wrather Corporation. [Jack and Bonita Wrather are friends of Walt's].

NEWS ITEM ~ Saturday, January 15, 1955
CONSTRUCTION BEGINS ON THE TOMORROWLAND portion of the new theme park, after Walt decides it must be ready by opening day.

ON THE AIR ~ Sunday, January 26, 1955
“DISNEYLAND” Season 1, Episode 14 ~ “DAVY CROCKETT GOES TO CONGRESS” airs. Episode 2 of 3, Davy enters the political arena after the death of his wife, Polly.

ON THE AIR ~ Sunday, February 2, 1955
“DISNEYLAND” Season 1, Episode 15 ~ “THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS” airs. A sort film based on Kenneth Grahame’s 1941 book about Mr. Toad and Badger. This animation was originally called “The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad.”

ON THE AIR ~ Sunday, February 9, 1955
“DISNEYLAND” Season 1, Episode 16 ~ “A PROGRESS REPORT AND NATURE’S HALF ACRE” airs featuring A look at how the construction of Disneyland is coming along shown with a True-Life Report called “Nature’s Half Acre.”

NEWS ITEM ~ February, 1955
WALT DISNEY CHANGES HIS MIND about his decision to not finish Tomorrowland. He decides to build it before the opening in July. He feels the entire project should be presented to the public rather than open Tomorrowland at a later date.

NEWS ITEM ~ Spring, 1955
DICK NUNIS is hired as one of over 600 people to help run Disneyland. Dick is first hired as a go-fer and later to train company executives and employees on the daily park operations for Disneyland at $1.80 an hour.

NEWS ITEM ~ 1955
The plans for building LILLIPUTIAN LAND in an area north of Tomorrowland are cancelled.

NEWS ITEM ~ 1955
JACK LINDQUIST is hired as the parks’ first advertising manager.

ON THE AIR ~ Sunday, February 23, 1955
“DISNEYLAND” Season 1, Episode 18 ~ “DAVY CROCKETT AT THE ALAMO” airs. This is the third of the trilogy in the series. Davy Crockett travels to Texas with a gambler, watch a bison stampede and the episode ends with Davy waving his gun at Mexican troops from on top the Alamo. [His death is not shown].

NEWS ITEM ~ March, 1955
The AUTOPIA ROADWAYS are finally paved and ready for the Autopia cars to be added to the track.

NEWS ITEM ~ Thursday, March 3, 1955
The COLOR GALLERY EXHIBIT in Tomorrowland sponsored by Dutch Boy Paints is completed and ready for the opening day.

NEWS ITEM ~ Tuesday, May 17, 1955
The DISNEYLAND MARCHING BAND is hired and organized and begins rehearsing for opening day to begin daily parades and concerts on Main Street USA under the direction of Vesey Walker. This band is still performing today.

NEWS ITEM ~ Thursday, May 26, 1955
Joe Fowler reports to Walt Disney that the MAD TEA PARTY attraction will not even be ready to test until June 11, 1955; thirty-seven days before the grand opening.

NEWS ITEM ~ May, 1955
JOE FOWLER reports that only six of twenty attractions will be completely ready by opening day. 11 others are doubtful and 3 will be impossible to finish.

NEWS ITEM ~ Wednesday, June 25, 1955
The DUMBO attraction finally flies successfully for the first time during test flights with only 3 more weeks until the park opening.

NEWS ITEM ~ Monday, July 4, 1955  

Disneyland's two new steam engines, the CK HOLLIDAY and EP RIPLEY make their first full run around the park in preparation for opening day.

NEWS ITEM ~ Wednesday, July 13, 1955
Walt and Lillian Disney celebrate THEIR 30th ANNIVERSARY with family and friends on the Mark Twain followed by a performance of the Golden Horseshoe Revue at the Golden Horseshoe Saloon in Frontierland.

NEWS ITEM ~ Wednesday, July 13, 1955

Ron Dominguez is hired four days before opening as a ticket taker at the front gate of Disneyland. He discovers that the Spanish style house he grew up in on the Disneyland property  has been moved and now serves as administrative offices.

ON THE AIR ~ Sunday, July 13, 1955  
“DISNEYLAND” Season 1, Episode 21 ~ “THE PRE-OPENING REPORT FROM DISNEYLAND” tells of final plans for the grand opening in 4 days and is followed by a tribute to Mickey Mouse. It is shown on ABC-TV Guests include Robert Cummings, Sammy Davis Jr, Irene Dunn, Ronald Reagan, Jimmie Dodd and some of the Mouseketeers.

NEWS ITEM ~ Saturday, July 16, 1955

Walt Disney hosts a private corporate party at the Golden Horseshoe Saloon in Frontierland.

Sunday, July 17, 1955: The Grand Opening Day of Disneyland:
This pre-opening was planned for the press and special invited guests to see the park for the first time. 

Six thousand media, friends and dignitaries were joined by 22,000 uninvited guests many of whom had counterfeit tickets. 

Despite plumbing issues, water shortages and very hot freshly poured asphalt, the park seemed a success.
 

The grand opening included an OPENING DAY PARADE starting on Main Street USA and a series of FILMED DEDICATIONS in each of the new lands. 

All of this is filmed to be shown on ABC-TV for a show entitled DATELINE: DISNEYLAND filmed live at Disneyland starring Art Linkletter, Bob Cummings, Ronald Reagan and Walt Disney himself. This special featured the media grand opening of Walt’s dream, Disneyland.

 

Walt started with this dedication of his new park ~

“To all who come to this happy place; welcome. Disneyland is your land. Here age relives fond memories of the past...and here youth may savor the challenge and promise of the future. Disneyland is dedicated to the ideals, the dreams and the hard facts that have created America... with the hope that it will be a source of joy and inspiration to the entire world.”
~ Walt Disney’s Dedication Speech on July 17, 1955
 

This is the complete ABC-TV broadcast of Opening Day on the 17th of July... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JuzrZET-3Ew. This broadcast lasts 1 hour and 13 minutes. Video courtesy of Marcio Disney.
 

Originally built into five themed lands, Disneyland included the following:

* MAIN STREET USA~ Based on Walt’s memory of his childhood hometown of Marceline, Missouri.

• Here is the dedication speech:"Main Street U.S.A. Main Street U.S.A. is America at the turn of the century -- the crossroads of an era; the gas lamp and the electric lamp, the horse-drawn car and the auto car. Main Street is everyone's hometown -- the heart line of America." ~ Walt Disney’s Main Street USA Dedication Speech on July 17, 1955
• Walt Disney's dedication speech of Main Street and Disneyland     http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NxPC0-obtBY

* TOMORROWLAND ~ A place to view the future of 1986 and the return of Haley's Comet [in 1986].

• Here is Walt’s dedication speech:"Tomorrowland, a vista into a world of wondrous ideas, signifying man’s achievements, a step into the future with predictions of constructive things to come. Tomorrow offers new frontiers in science, adventure, and ideals, the atomic age, the challenge of outer space and the hope for a peaceful and unified world." ~ Walt Disney’s Tomorrowland Dedication Speech on July 17, 1955
• Walt Disney's dedication of Tomorrowland http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMV_fTDvhJc&list=PL6EB83846E98C8F31

* FANTASYLAND ~ Home of the famous Disney characters and Sleeping Beauty Castle. The attractions in this area were themed after Disney most favorite animation characters.

• Here is Walt’s dedication speech: “The Happiest Kingdom of them all! Here is the world of imagination, hopes and dreams. In this timeless land of enchantment, the age of chivalry, magic and make believe are reborn -- and fairy tales come true. Fantasyland is dedicated to the young and the young-at-heart -- to those who believe that when you wish upon a star, your dreams do come true.” ~ Walt Disney’s Fantasyland Dedication Speech on July 17, 1955
• Walt Disney's Dedication Speech of Fantasyland     http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5iExSdcJYe4
   

* FRONTIERLAND ~  A journey into the Old West of the 1800’s.

• Here is Walt’s dedication speech: “Frontierland ~ It is here we experience the story of our country’s past… the color, romance and drama of Frontier America, as it developed from wilderness trails, roads, riverboats, railroads and civilization, a tribute to the faith, courage and ingenuity of our hearty pioneers who blazed the trails and made this progress possible.” ~ Walt Disney’s Frontierland Dedication Speech on July 17, 1955
• Walt Disney's Dedication of Frontierland     http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k89IAJp2z9U

* ADVENTURELAND ~ Originally sometimes referred to as True-Life Adventureland, this land encouraged guests to seek out adventure worldwide. Its theme was based on the True Life Adventure series that Disney Studios made from 1949 to 1960.

• Here is the dedication speech:
• "Adventureland - Here is adventure. Here is romance. Here is mystery; tropical rivers silently flowing into the unknown; the unbelievable splendor of exotic flowers; the eerie sound of the jungle ... with eyes that are always watching. This is Adventureland." ~ Walt Disney’s Adventureland Dedication Speech on July 17, 1955
• Walt Disney's Dedication of Adventureland  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dKYiDG7vjU&list=PL90AECD729B88A586

The following attractions, restaurants and exhibits opened:

Adventureland Attractions that opened include:

NOW OPEN ~ ADVENTURELAND BAZAAR

This is a shop selling rarities from the world's jungles and souvenirs themed to the Adventureland area. The Bazaar is located as  the first shop on the right as you enter Adventureland across from the Tiki Room exit. This attraction is still open in Adventureland. This building has housed various shops inside including the Curio Hut, Here & There Imports, the Lee Brothers Chinese Imports, India Magic Carpet Shop, Far East Imports, the Island Trade Store, Guatemalan Weavers and the Hawaiian Shop.

NOW OPEN ~ ADVENTURELAND CANTINA

It serves various exotic juices. Part of the original Adventureland, this facility was a counter service location. It was located in Adventureland across from the entrance to Indiana Jones where Bengal BBQ now stands. It stood next to the now closed Adventureland Shooting Gallery.

NOW OPEN ~ JUNGLE CRUISE

This is the only major attraction that is in Adventureland on Opening Day. Cruise through the Jungle Rivers of the world, including Asia, Africa and South America, as you observe wild animals, plants and sites. Originally planned for real animals, audio-animatronic animals were used instead due to the unreliability of real animals. Designed by Harper Goff and landscaped by Bill Evans, this attraction was the most publicized in the early years of the park. It is located next to the Swiss Family Tree house. This attraction best known for its comedic skipper commentary and is still open and mostly unchanged in its spiel. Original boats include the Amazon Belle, Congo Queen, Ganges Gal, Irrawaddi Woman, Mekong Maiden and Swanee Lady.

NOW OPEN ~ MAGNOLIA PARK
A small park area with green grass, winding paths and a gazebo/ bandstand for guests to rest, this park was located where the Jungle cruise elephant pool now stands. It stood on the far western  edge of Adventureland between the Rivers of America [on the north], Jungle Cruise [on the south] and Indian Village [to the northwest]. This area eventually became Swiss Family Treehouse and New Orleans Square.

Fantasyland Attractions that opened include:

NOW OPEN ~ CANALS BOATS OF THE WORLD

The first of six original opening day attractions in Fantasyland. These open passenger boats take guests through miniature villages from famous Disney stories. It is located near the back of Fantasyland. This attraction is still open. Walt Disney's love for collecting miniatures lead to the development of this attraction based on one he had seen in Holland. In 1955, this attraction had only bare banks of dirt, noisy motorboat engines and a nice view of Casey Jr. Train, but this attraction was later added on to and improved.

NOW OPEN ~ MICKEY MOUSE CLUB [FANTASYLAND] THEATER

On Opening Day, this theater featured a first time view of the members of the new Mickey Mouse club [which wouldn't air for 2 more months]. Eventually, this theater shows filmed and live shows sometimes starring members of the Mickey Mouse Club. This popular venue featured air-conditioning and 400 comfortable seats. [the perfect place for hot, tired guests]. This was the first or original Fantasyland Theater located in the main area of Fantasyland behind the castle on the west side of Fantasyland.

NOW OPEN ~ KING ARTHUR’S CAROUSEL

The second of six original opening day attractions in Fantasyland. Inspired by the Griffith Park Carousel in Los Angeles' Griffith Park, this carousel is a reconditioned 1875 Dentzel Carousel from Toronto, Canada. A seventy-two horse carousel [all in the jumper position], it is located in the Fantasyland courtyard and decorated with scenes from Sleeping Beauty. This attraction is still open.

NOW OPEN ~ MAD HATTER’S MAD TEA PARTY

The third of six original opening day attractions in Fantasyland, take a mad spin in over-sized tea cups from the Mad Hatter's Tea Party in the movie "Alice in Wonderland". It is located in the center of Fantasyland where King Arthur's Carousel now stands. This attraction is still open, but not in its original place.

NOW OPEN ~ MERLIN’S MAGIC SHOP

This shop featured magic tricks, gadgets and supplies. It later became Mickey's Christmas Chalet.

NOW OPEN ~ MR. TOAD’S WILD RIDE

The fourth of six original opening day attractions in Fantasyland, this is a wild horseless carriage ride through Toad Hall with Mr. Toad and friends. This attraction is still open.

NOW OPEN ~ PETER PAN’S FLIGHT

The fifth of six original opening day attractions in Fantasyland, these attraction vehicles are suspended from the ceiling as guests are flown high above London and into the magical world of Neverland with Peter Pan. This attraction is still open.

NOW OPEN ~ SLEEPING BEAUTY CASTLE

The focal point of Walt’s Magic Kingdom, it draws guests to the center hub and the gateways to other “themed” lands. The castle drawbridge has only been raised twice ~ on opening day and at the re-opening of the new Fantasyland in 1983. The castle has a "forced perspective" copy of a European castle. This attraction is still open.

NOW OPEN ~ SNOW WHITE’S ADVENTURE  

The sixth of six original opening day attractions in Fantasyland. This is a dark attraction through the story of Snow White and her adventures with the Evil Queen and the Seven Dwarfs. This attraction is still open.

NOW OPEN ~ STORY BOOK SHOP

This shop selling children's books is sponsored by Western Publishing Company.
 

Frontierland Attractions that opened include:

NOW OPEN ~ CHICKEN PLANTATION RESTAURANT

Sponsored by Swift Meats, it is considered the best restaurant in the park and its specialty was the delicious fried chicken for under $2.00 a meal. It was eventually removed to build the Haunted Mansion.

NOW OPEN ~ DAVY CROCKETT’S ARCADE

Here's a chance for young pioneer's to hunt for big game like Davy Crockett himself. This attraction is still open, although it has been renamed several times.

NOW OPEN ~ FRONTIERLAND TRADING POST

This Frontierland shop sells western gifts and souvenirs.

NOW OPEN ~ GOLDEN HORSESHOE REVUE

The first of four original opening day attractions in Frontierland, this Wild West stage show starring Wally Boag, Judy Marsh and Don Novis begins performing doing 5 to 10 shows daily in Frontierland’s Golden Horseshoe Saloon. This is one of Walt's favorite shows.

NOW OPEN ~ MARK TWAIN STEAMBOAT

The second of four original opening day attractions in Frontierland. Board this Mississippi river boat as it tours the Rivers of America. On July 13, 1955, Walt and Lillian celebrated their 30th anniversary. Originally, this attraction used a separate free ticket. It was the first paddle-wheeler built since the turn of the century.  This attraction is still open.

NOW OPEN ~ MULE PACK 

This is the third of four original opening day attractions in Frontierland. Ride live pack mules through Frontierland's Nature's Wonderland.

NOW OPEN ~ PEPSI-COLA’S GOLDEN HORSESHOE SALOON 

This is the location of the Original Revue Show. This salon type restaurant originally utilized table service and a wild west show to drawn guests to this free attraction. Although admission was free, food was provided at a cost. It now features bar service for burgers, hot dogs and chili. It was originally sponsored by Pepsi-Cola.

NOW OPEN ~ SANTA FE & DISNEYLAND RAILROAD - FRONTIERLAND STATION 

This location is an extension of Main Street. Walt Disney’s passion for railroads is brought to life through the Disneyland Railroad system that encircles the perimeter of the park.

NOW OPEN ~ STAGE COACH

The fourth of four original opening day attractions in Frontierland, these real horse driven stagecoaches travel the trails of Frontierland and Nature's Wonderland.

Main Street USA attractions include:

NOW OPEN ~ BANK OF AMERICA EXHIBIT

This is a full service bank provided by the Bank of America was used for guest convenience and an exhibit showing banking over the decades. Guests could also open a real Bank of America checking or savings account at this location. It is also known as Bank of Main Street and many castmembers used this service over the years.

NOW OPEN ~ BEKINS LOCKER SERVICE

Bekins Moving Company operated a locker service for park guests to store jackets, baby items or food. It was located in Town Square near the Opera House.  

NOW OPEN ~ BLUE BIRD SHOES FOR CHILDREN

This venue offered shoes for children sponsored by Gallen-Kamp Shoes.

NOW OPEN ~ CAMERA CENTER

A full service camera, video and photo shop for guests, this shop would eventually be sponsored by GAF, Polaroid and Kodak. This is also called the Main Street Photo Supply.

NOW OPEN ~ CARNATION ICE CREAM PARLOR

The antique wooden and marble soda fountain is the focal point of this old fashioned ice cream parlor. It will later become a bakery and patio restaurant and be moved next door to the Candy Palace.

NOW OPEN ~ CITY HALL

Originally home to the Disneyland Publicity Department, it is later used for Guest Relations and information. This building is still open.

NOW OPEN ~ COCA-COLA REFRESHMENT CORNER

Also known as Coke Corner, this food stand is sponsored by Coca-Cola since its 1955 opening. This snack and drink shop featured one of the park's dearest traditions, rag time piano player, Rod Miller, as well as many other piano players. This food/entertainment venue is still open daily.

NOW OPEN ~ CORSETS & TORSOLETTES EXHIBIT

This exhibit is opened inside the Hollywood Maxwell Intimate Apparel Shop on Main Street USA. 

NOW OPEN ~ THE EMPORIUM

As Disneyland's largest store, it is located on Main Street USA and features every kind of Disney merchandise available. Its windows feature tableau of the company's most recent movies and is popular among guests as a last minute souvenir location at the close of the operating day. This merchandise location is still open.

NOW OPEN ~ FINE TOBACCO SHOP

This venue sells tobacco, cigarettes, cigars and other smoking merchandise. 

NOW OPEN ~ FIRE DEPARTMENT

Located next to City Hall, this exhibit features a replica of a turn of the century fire department with fire wagon and fire fighting memorabilia. Walt's private apartment was located directly above this exhibit. This location is still open.

NOW OPEN ~ GIBSON GREETING CARD SHOP

Located on Main Street USA, this venue sold special occasion cards, envelopes, stationary and stamps. It was sponsored by the Gibson Card Company.

NOW OPEN ~ GRANDMA’S BABY SHOP

This venue opens on Main Street USA. It sells baby clothing and merchandise. 

NOW OPEN ~ HOLLYWOOD MAXWELL’S INTIMATE APPAREL SHOP

This ladies under apparel shop is opened on Main Street USA. 

NOW OPEN ~ HORSE DRAWN FIRE WAGON

This is the Original Main Street vehicles that make up the third original attractions on Main Street. Opened on Main Street USA and providing transportation for guests to the hub at the end of Main Street,  this vehicle was retired and is currently housed in the Fire Station on Main Street Town Square.

NOW OPEN ~ HORSE DRAWN STREET CARS

This is the Original Main Street vehicles that make up the third original attractions on Main Street. These horse-drawn street cars begin service transporting guests from Town Square to the "hub" in front of the Castle. This attraction is still open.

NOW OPEN ~ HORSE DRAWN SURREY RIDE

This is the Original Main Street vehicles that make up the third original attractions on Main Street. This horse-drawn Main Street vehicle takes guests to the hub at the end of Main Street.

NOW OPEN ~ MAIN STREET CINEMA

This is the first of three original attractions on Main Street USA. This open floor cinema originally showed changing old Black & white films including Charlie Chaplin, William S. Hart, Lon Chaney, John Gilbert, Gloria Swanson, Vilma Banky, the Keystone Kops, Lillian Gish, Lionel Barrymore, Mabel Normand and Fatty Arbuckle, as well as Mickey Mouse's "Steamboat Willie" short. In the mid-1970's, the films were changed to Mickey Mouse shorts in black and white shown continually in six different screens. This attraction is still open.

NOW OPEN ~ MAIN STREET ARCADE

This is another name for the Penny Arcade on Main Street which is still opened. 

NOW OPEN ~ MAIN STREET PHOTO SUPPLY

It is also called the Camera Center. It later moved to Carefree Corner.  This venue is still open and is currently run by the Disney Company.

NOW OPEN ~ MAIN STREET SHOOTING GALLERY

This shooting Gallery opens on Main Street where the Penny Arcade now sits.

NOW OPEN ~ MARKET HOUSE

Sponsored by Swift Meats, this shop features candy, food stuffs and kitchen ware. It is modeled after a turn of the century general store complete with checker board and pot-bellied stove.

NOW OPEN ~ PENNY ARCADE

This is another name for the Main Street Arcade. This is an old fashioned penny arcade featuring antique arcade equipment including muto-scopes and Cail-o-scopes. This attraction is still open in a diminished form.

NOW OPEN ~ PLAZA PAVILION 

This is a buffeteria style restaurant that backs up to the Tahitian Terrace Restaurant in Adventureland. It served as the processing center for Annual Passholders and is now the Jolly Holiday Bakery.

NOW OPEN ~ RED WAGON INN

This is a restaurant in the hub area that was sponsored by Swift Meats Company. It later became the Plaza Inn.

NOW OPEN ~ REFRESHMENT CORNER

Also known as Coke Corner, this food service location offers counter service hot dogs, drinks and snacks on Main Street USA. This location is still open.

NOW OPEN ~ RUGGLES CHINA & GLASS SHOP

Opened by Phil Papel, this gift shop opens selling crystal, china and glass souvenirs shop on Main Street.

NOW OPEN ~ SANTA FE & DISNEYLAND RAILROAD at MAIN STREET STATION

This is the 3rd of three original attractions on Main Street.

These 3/8 scale train cars were built because of Walt Disney’s train passion. This railroad is brought to the park through the Disneyland Railroad system that encircles the perimeter of the park. This attraction is still open.

NOW OPEN ~ SANTA FE & DISNEYLAND ENGINE - C.K. HOLLIDAY

The C.K. Holliday Locomotive #1 opens and begins daily service throughout the park. Named after a Santa Fe Railroad pioneer, it was built from scratch at the Disney Studio. It is named after Cyrus K. Holliday, the founder of the Atchison & Topeka Railroad.

NOW OPEN ~ SANTA FE & DISNEYLAND ENGINE - E.P. RIPLEY

The E.P. Ripley Locomotive #2 opens and begins daily service throughout the park. Named after Edward Payson Ripley, a Santa Fe Railroad pioneer, he was president of the newly reorganized Atchison, Topeka and the Santa Fee Railroad. The locomotive was built from scratch at the Disney Studios.

NOW OPEN ~ THE BANDSTAND

This open air gazebo opens in the “hub” on Main Street USA to be used as a place where the Marching Band can perform concerts, as well as guest bands and artists. Because it blocked the view of the castle, it was moved before opening day to a place between the entrances to Frontierland and Fantasyland. It was later moved further back into Frontierland.

NOW OPEN ~ UPJOHN PHARMACY APOTHECARY EXHIBIT

This turn of the century drugstore displays various pharmaceutical exhibits and free vitamins for guests. It became the New Century Clock Shop later.

NOW OPEN ~ WALT’S APARTMENT

Located on Main Street USA above the Fire House, this apartment was built as an actual residence for use by the Disney Family when visiting the park. This apartment was decorated by Emile Kuri in the Victorian style especially for Mrs. Lillian Disney. From here Walt could watch his beloved trains as they pulled into and out of the Main Street Station and keep on eye on his park.

NOW OPEN ~ WURLITZER MUSIC HALL

This shop features demonstrations of Wurlitzer organs and sells musical supplies.

Tomorrowland Attractions include:

NOW OPEN ~ CLOCK OF THE WORLD 

This global clock kept track of the time in many worldwide locations. It was used as the focal point at the entrance to Tomorrowland.

NOW OPEN ~ MONSANTO HALL of CHEMISTRY 

This is the first of three original attractions in Tomorrowland. This exhibit is sponsored by the Monsanto Company.

NOW OPEN ~ SPACE STATION X-1 

This is the second of three original attractions in Tomorrowland. This is a Tomorrowland exhibit showing the earth from space. This attraction included a scenic painting of the earth from space illustrated by Peter Ellenshaw.

NOW OPEN ~ SPACE BAR 

This futurist food stand opens in Tomorrowland serving snacks and drinks.

NOW OPEN ~ TOMORROWLAND AUTOPIA

This is the third of three original attractions in Tomorrowland. It was presented by Atlantic Richfield Company features miniature gas automobiles that give the young and young at heart a chance to drive the open highways.

NOW OPEN ~ YACHT BAR 

This is a fast food facility in Tomorrowland. It was also called The Yacht Club.

The total park attendance was 1 million Guests in 1955.

The following people earned a window on Main Street on or shortly after the opening day, Sunday, July 17, 1955; either because Walt wanted to honor them or they contributed to the planning and building of Disneyland:

• 1955 ~ Charles Alexander receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company including helping to construct Disneyland in 1954-1955. His window is located above the Market House. His window reads "George Mills, Ray Conway & Chas. Alexander ~ Carpenters and Joiners". The carpenters and joiners line was later removed from the window.
• 1955 ~ W. F. "Fred" Allen receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company including sponsoring the Upjohn Pharmacy on Main Street as an executive of the Upjohn Company. His window is located above the Fortuosity Shop [the original location of the Upjohn Pharmacy]. His window reads "C.V. Patterson MD ~ W.F. Allen MD ~ D.S. Gilmore MD ~ E.G. Upjohn MD".
• 1955 ~ American Broadcasting Company receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for its contributions to the Disney Company including providing the initial investment of $4.5 million to build Disneyland in 1955 and helping establish the weekly “Disneyland” television show and the Walt Disney Presents series. In exchange they received a 1/3 share of Disneyland and the exclusive right to broadcast of Disney programming.  In 1960, Disney bought back their shares and in 1995, Disney merged with ABC for $19 billion. Their window is located above the Candy Palace and reads "ABC Auditing ~ ABC Typing ~ Acme Business College ~ ABC Shorthand".
• 1955 ~ Dr. H. Draegert Barnard receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company including being one of Walt Disney’s physicians. Dr. Barnard was an Eye, Ear and Nose specialist who supported Republican nominee Wendell Wilkie in 1940. He helped Walt acquire the land in Anaheim. This window is located above Disney Clothiers. His window reads "H. Draegart Barnard ~ Real Estate ! Houses Bought and Sold".
• 1955 ~ Ray Conway receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company including being a key member of the construction crew that built Disneyland. His window is located above Market House. His window reads "George Mills, Ray Conway & Chas. Alexander ~ Carpenters and Joiners". The carpenters and joiners line was later removed from the window.
• 1955 ~ Elias Disney receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company including being the father of Walt and Roy O. Disney. His window tribute is located above The Emporium. His window reads "Elias Disney ~ Contractor ~ Est. 1895".
• 1955 ~ D.S. Gilmore receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company. Donald Gilmore was the former president of the Upjohn Company and a personal friend and neighbor of Walt’s and invested in the building of Disneyland. His window is located on Main Street where the old Upjohn Store stood. It is now the Twentieth Century Jewelry and Clock Shop. His window reads "C.V. Patterson MD ~ W.F. Allen MD ~ D.S. Gilmore MD ~ E.G. Upjohn MD".
• 1955 ~ J.S. Hamel receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company. His window was added in 1955 during the building of Disneyland. Jacob Hamel was hired as a consultant for making working building and functional structures for Disneyland. He also provided all the designs for lighting Disneyland and planning out the waterways. His window is located above the Disney Gallery in Town Square. His window is located on the east side of Main Street above the bank of America and says "J.S.Hamel ~ Consulting Engineer".
• 1955 ~ Dr. Alexander R. Irvine receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company. He was Walt’s personal eye doctor and founder of the Doheny Eye Institute at the University of Southern California. He is the father of Dick Irvine. His window is located above the Baby Care Center off of Main Street. His window reads "Alexander R. Irvine, M.D."
• 1955 ~ Frederic Leopold receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company. He was lawyer from the firm of Youngman & Leopold who represented Walt Disney and Disneyland’s intellectual property, copyrights, trademarks and entertainment law issues. His window is located above the Disneyana Shop. It reads "Gunther R. Lessing, Esq. ~ Youngman & Leopold"
• 1955 ~ Gunther R. Lessing receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company. He was hired to help protect Disney’s rights to their cartoons in 1930 and was Vice President and General Council as well as presiding over Studio Board meetings. He also served on the board. His window was added in 1955 when Disneyland was being constructed. His window is located above the Disneyana Shop. It reads "Gunther R. Lessing, Esq. ~ Youngman & Leopold". [Gordon Youngman and Frederic Leopold were lawyers hired by Gunther Lessing to oversee legal affairs for Disneyland.]
• 1955 ~ Ivan Martin receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company. Ivan was the prop builder for Disneyland and Buena Vista Studios. His window is located above the Market House. His windows says "Buena Vista Construction Co. ~ Jack Rorex, Ivan Martin and Cash Shockey".
• 1955 ~ Wilson "Bill" Martin receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company. He is the art  and set director for Fantasyland and eventually worked as the Art Director for the entire park. His window was added in 1955 with the construction of Disneyland. His window is located above the Disney Gallery on the east side of Main street in Town Square. His window says "Architects and Associates, Wilson Martin & Gabriel Sconamillo".
• 1955 ~ George Mills receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company. He is the foreman of the construction crew that helped build Disneyland and was in charge of the woodworking mill. His window is located above Market House. His window reads "George Mills, Ray Conway & Chas. Alexander ~ Carpenters and Joiners". The carpenters and joiners line was later removed from the window.
• 1955 ~ George Patrick receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company. A movie and TV art director, he worked for WED at Disneyland during its construction in 1954 as the Art Director for Frontierland and created its overall theme. After construction was completed, he returned to television. His window is located above the Disney Gallery in Town Square on the east side of Main Street. It reads "Wade B. Robottom & George Patrick".
• 1955 ~ C. V. Patterson receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company. He was the Executive Director of the Upjohn Company who invested in Disneyland’s construction. His window reads "C.V. Patterson MD ~ W.F. Allen MD ~ D.S. Gilmore MD ~ E.G. Upjohn MD" and is located on Main Street where the old Upjohn Store stood. It is now the Twentieth Century Jewelry and Clock Shop.
• 1955 ~ Jack Rorex receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company. Jack worked for the Buena Vista Construction Company and was head of construction for the studio. He supervised the construction of the 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea sets and stages. His window is located above the Market House. His windows says "Buena Vista Construction Co. ~ Jack Rorex, Ivan Martin and Cash Shockey".
• 1955 ~ Lou H. Roth receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company. Roth served as an assistant to Admiral Joe Fowler in overseeing construction of many attractions and buildings while keeping things on schedule for the July 17, 1955 opening. His window was added in 1955 with the construction of Disneyland and is located above the Market House on Main Street. His window reads "Surveying & Engineering ~ L.H. Roth".
• 1955 ~ Wade B. Rubottom receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company. Wade was a Hollywood art director at MGM hired by Walt during Disneyland’s construction. He served as Art Director for Main Street USA. He also worked on Magic Mountain and the Universal Studio Tours. His window is located on the east side of Main Street above the Disney Gallery. It reads "Wade B. Robottom & George Patrick".
• 1955 ~ Gabriel Scognamillo receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company. Gabriel was a Hollywood director, hired to be the Art Director for Tomorrowland when the park was being built. He left after construction was completed on Disneyland. His window is located on the east side on Main Street above the Disney Gallery and Disneyana shops. His window says "Architects and Associates ~ Wilson Martin & Gabriel Scognamillo".
• 1955 ~ Cash Shockey receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company. Cash was a set painter who helped with the building of Disneyland. He served as head of the Paint Department for Walt Disney Studios and Buena Vista Studios. His window is above Market House. His windows says "Buena Vista Construction Co. ~ Jack Rorex, Ivan Martin and Cash Shockey".
• 1955 ~ Dr. Everett Gilford Upjohn receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company. Dr. Upjohn was President and great nephew of the founder of Upjohn Pharmaceuticals Company and later its chairmen, who invested financially in the building of Disneyland. His window is located on Main Street where the old Upjohn Store stood. It is now the Twentieth Century Jewelry and Clock Shop. His window reads "C.V. Patterson MD ~ W.F. Allen MD ~ D.S. Gilmore MD ~ E.G. Upjohn MD".
• 1955 ~ William T. Wheeler receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company. His window was added in 1955 during the building of Disneyland. William was the structural engineer hired to consult on various Disney projects throughout the years including the realignment of the Monorail tracks. At the time, he worked for Wheeler & Grey, but moved to the Disney Company working at WED and Buena Vista Construction Company. In 1974, he was the first president of Community Transportation Division at Walt Disney Productions. His window located on the east side of Main Street at the Bank of America says "William T. Wheeler and John Wise, Structural Engineers".
• 1955 ~ George K. Whitney Jr. receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company. George was a theme park consultant who along with his father owned Playland in San Francisco. George served as Director of Ride Operations from 1954 to 1958. He helped develop the shooting galleries located in the park. His window is located above Market House on Main Street. His window reads "Geo. Whitney ~ Guns".
• 1955 ~ John Wise receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company. John was a structural engineer hired to build Disneyland. He later joined WED Enterprises. His window is located above the Disney Gallery in Town Square. His window located on the east side of Main Street at the Bank of America says "William T. Wheeler and John Wise, Structural Engineers".
• 1955 ~ Gordon Youngman receives a window on Main Street USA in Disneyland for his contributions to the Disney Company.  Gordon was a lawyer with Youngman & Leopold who represented Disneyland and served as its legal counsel. His window is located above the Disneyana Shop. It reads "Gunther R. Lessing, Esq. ~ Youngman & Leopold"
• 1955 ~ Window Removed ~ An original window added in 1955 was removed later. It belonged to Larry Smith, who was the original supervisor of the Disneyland Paint Shop. It read "Painting and Paperhanging ~ Larry Smith".
• Date Unknown ~ Willard P. Bounds ~ Lillian Disney's father receives a window on the Rainbow Ridge storefront window. Willard Bounds was at one time a U.S. Marshall in Idaho and Walt and Lillian were married at his home. This window was removed with the demolition of the Rainbow Ridge area in Frontierland. The original window read "Willard P. Bounds ~ U.S. Marshall". Also a sign hung on the Blacksmith Shop that read "Willard P. Bounds ~ Blacksmith ~ U.S. Marshall". It is also now gone.
• Date Unknown ~ Fess Parker receives a window in Frontierland located above the mercantile that reads "Crockett & Russell Hat Company ~ Davy Crockett ~ Coonskin Cap Company ~ Fess Parker - Proprietor". Fess Parker was an actor who starred in the Disney television serial, Davy Crocket, as well as making other movies and popularizing the Coonskin hat craze in the 1950's. The Russell name is a nod to actor, Buddy Ebsen who played Davy Crockett's pal, George Russell.

More windows were awarded in future years. This lists only includes those that originally were on Main Street in 1955.