I’m not sure about the backstory on this shot, but it appears to be a few lucky guests at Disneyland who ran into Walt during a visit. The pic is hand dated March, 1955; since the park opened in July, not sure if this is a misnotation or some kind of soft opening. Either way, I think it's awesome to see Disneyland's creator happily posing with his guests.
See more Disneyland/Walt Disney World photos on my main website.
Yeah - there's no way this was March of 1955, as Tomorrowland was not even near a state of completion at that point... Probably Fall of the same year, would be my best guess...
ReplyDeleteI was thinking March of 1956 as Tomorrowland looks pretty well finished and crowded. I like the way Walt looks here with his hair a little tousled.
ReplyDeleteWhat a find! It would be a wonderful photo anyway, but with Walt included, it is a real treasure. He doesn't look the least bit grouchy or in a hurry either! As always, thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeletePJ is probably correct....!
ReplyDeleteAm I the only one who thinks it looked Photoshopped? I know it's from an actual photograph, and isn't. I'm just saying they look cut out.
ReplyDeleteI was gonna say the same thing about Walt looking a little more like a normal guy instead of all cleaned up for TV. I like it. :)