Thursday, November 13, 2008

Grand Canyon Diorama Debut, March 21, 1958



The Grand Canyon Diorama was created when Walt said he wanted a big finish to the Grand Circle Tour of the Disneyland Railroad around the park. Banners over Main Street heralded the arrival of this combination of art and taxidermy. I have included a closeup of the cast members on Main Street fixing the lampposts.



Over at the Tomorrowland Station, a little Native American boy was on hand for opening day to “christen” the new attraction.



Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at a worker fussing over one of the taxidermied animals.



And a vintage publicity shot:



As you can see by these contemporary views, these little beauties are still wowin’ the guests!





See more vintage Disneyland Grand Canyon Diorama photos at my regular website.

4 comments:

  1. I still love the Grand Canyon Diorama and Primeval World...they goby all too quickly every time!

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  2. Fantastic pictures. Some Santa Fe RR info: The little indian boy was used extensively by the Santa Fe in their advertising during the late 40's thru the 1950's. His name was "Chico". He had a fan club and was very, very popular.

    Here is a link to one of the fan club items.

    http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/8vUZEUvE-O2Z4NP5SGOoYQ?authkey=66ZufI2dSO0

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  3. Thanks for the info Viewliner, and the link - sure is great to get the additional knowledge from all you experts out there.

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  4. I'm kind of surprised that in all the years that have passed since it's opening, the Grand Canyon critters haven't been replaced by audio-animatronics. Would it cost that much? Couldn't they have used some of the animals from Nature's Wonderland when it closed?

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