Yesterday, The Major noted some construction going on for the Matterhorn. Today, we take a closer look! In these Spring 1959 images, the Matterhorn is nearing completion.
Even from way over yonder in Frontierland, this imposing man-made structure is clearly visible, towering over all that surrounds it.
Let's zoom in for a closer view:
From Tomorrowland, all of the wooden scaffolding and stairs really screw around with the forced perspective. Sheer genius, I tell you!
I wouldn't have minded wandering around the scaffolding to shoot a few photos back in '59.
And here she is today, still standing tall over Disneyland:
See more vintage and contemporary Disneyland Matterhorn photos at my main website.
9 comments:
Those sure are great construction photos!
WOW!!! (Insert bold, italic, red font here!)
I often think of what the construction team spoke of at the dinner table with the family after a day of work. There must have been some really interesting times as dad recounted his day over supper.
It must have been amazing to work at the park and see that structure going up - especially considering how quickly they did things in those days. Months instead of years!
I was just telling my daughter the other day as we drove out to the parks for her birthday that, when I was a kid, you could see the Matterhorn for (what seemed like) miles as you approached the park. Nowadays, I think you can still barely see it off the 5 freeway. But otherwise, you can't really spot it from outside of the park anymore. It's kinda too bad. I can't tell you what a thrill it was to see that mountain as are full-car (Mom, Dad, me, two brothers and a sister) approached on Katella in the 70s. Of course, now there are other things to see. They're just not that mountain (or as cool, IMHO).
Paul - I used to take the 5 instead of the 405 just so I could see the Matterhorn. Something cool about being able to see Disneyland from the highway. You can still see it today, but like you said, not quite as unobstructed, and I always worry about getting into an accident for looking too long! You can also see the Tower of Terror from the 5, but...just not as impressive!
Thufer - What I wouldn't give for a tape of some of those conversations!
Major - Yes...today it takes much longer...but not necessarily better! Oh the boondoggle.
Very interesting pictures!! Thanks for sharing. :-)
It's looks better with more snow, the freezing level has dropped.
I've been on the east coast too long. I need to get out and see the Matterhorn again. Thanks for sharing those fabulous contruction pictures!
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