It all started with extensive research followed by sketches and concept art. A steam powered riverboat doesn't just magically appear, folks. For the Mark Twain Riverboat at Disneyland, the decks were put together at the Disney Studios in Burbank, and the hull was built at Todd Shipyards in San Pedro. The two were assembled on-site at Disneyland, as you can see here. The layering of the "Floating Wedding Cake" had begun.
I sure would love to see that photographer's photos!
Could that be Walt on the far right? Maybe, maybe not...but I'd like to think so.
Compared to another shot of him surveying the park, the hat, outfit, and stance do look appropriate:
Still missing a layer!
Getting closer...
Finally, as seen in this public Opening Day July 18, 1955 photo, it was ready to take guests on a journey around the Rivers of America.
See more vintage & current Disneyland Mark Twain photos on my main website.
I love image 2 with the crane and paddlewheel. The crane says Fowler & Sons. Is that any connection to Admiral Joe Fowler?
ReplyDeleteThat definitely looks like it could be Walt in image 4. Another awesome set today. Thanks.
Wow, very cool.
ReplyDeleteJG