The Legacy of Walt Disney (1970–1973) was a temporary museum-style exhibit on Disneyland’s Main Street, U.S.A., celebrating the life, achievements, and global impact of Walt Disney. Housed in the former Wurlitzer Music Hall space near Town Square, it showcased awards, memorabilia, and artifacts from Walt’s Burbank studio offices, offering a heartfelt tribute to the visionary behind the Magic Kingdom.
Here are 10 fun facts about this short-lived but poignant exhibit, brimming with nostalgia and Disneyland charm!
- Tribute Launch: The Legacy of Walt Disney opened on January 15, 1970, four years after Walt’s death in 1966, taking over the Wurlitzer Music Hall shop on Main Street’s west side, next to the Market House.
- Awards Showcase: The exhibit displayed Walt’s impressive accolades, including his record-breaking 22 competitive Oscars (59 nominations total), the Presidential Medal of Freedom (1964), and a 1955 Emmy for the Walt Disney’s Disneyland TV show, highlighting his cultural impact.
- Burbank Memorabilia: Artifacts from Walt’s Burbank studio offices, like his desk, sketches, and personal items, gave guests a glimpse into his creative process.
- Miniature Marvels: Walt’s love for miniatures shone through with displays of tiny models, possibly including a Mark Twain Riverboat replica from his collection.
- Main Street Fit: Housed in the heart of Main Street, U.S.A.—inspired by Walt’s Marceline, Missouri hometown—the exhibit felt like a personal tribute.
- Short but Sweet Run: The exhibit closed in 1973, lasting about three years, to make way for Disneyland Presents a Preview of Coming Attractions, a new exhibit hyping future park additions.
- Inspiration for Museums: The exhibit foreshadowed the Walt Disney Family Museum (opened 2009 in San Francisco), which expanded on its concept with interactive galleries.
- Fan Connection: Guests loved seeing Walt’s personal side, from his Marceline roots to his animation breakthroughs. This was a true testament to all things Walt.
- Animation Legacy: Displays likely highlighted Walt’s animation milestones, like Snow White (1937) and Mickey Mouse, with sketches and storyboards.
- Walt’s Personal Railroad: The exhibit included a photo of Walt’s Carolwood Pacific Railroad, a backyard train that inspired Disneyland’s railroad, tying his personal passions to the park.
