Some Disney History You May Not To Know

Disney has captivated the hearts of people worldwide for almost a century. Have you ever tried to dig up some Disney history you may not know? Disney has inevitably molded popular culture, from its films to its theme parks. Even though you may claim to know a lot about Disney, many people are still unaware of specific startling and intriguing facts about it.

Discovering these secrets will help you take your next Disney trip to a whole new level of curiosity and excitement. Whether you're a diehard Disney fan or just a casual visitor, you’ll mark it as one of your best trips to Disney. So, in this blog post, we will delve into some Disney history you may not know and discover the fascinating stories behind it.

Disney History: Opening up the Secrets

Although most of the Disney iconic stories are on the tips of fans, there are many more to unveil. Here is some Disney history you may not know, along with some fun facts.

Walt Disney's First Studio Was a Garage

Before creating Disneyland, Walt Disney started with a humble garage in Los Angeles. There, he and his brother Roy developed Alice Comedies, a live-action and animation hybrid. This early work paved the way for iconic characters like Mickey Mouse and the establishment of the Disney Brothers Studio.

The Secret of the Hatbox Ghost

The Hatbox Ghost, a figure from the Haunted Mansion attraction, originally debuted in 1969 but was quickly removed due to technical limitations. Fans believed it was just a myth until the ghost finally reappeared in 2015. Today, the Hatbox Ghost is one of the most popular features of the ride, showing how legends can become reality at Disneyland.

The Lost Oswald Cartoons

Oswald the Lucky Rabbit existed before Mickey Mouse emerged as Disney's most recognizable character. Walt Disney created Oswald in 1927, and Universal Studios produced several animated shorts in which he appeared. However, Disney lost the rights to Oswald in 1928 when Universal took over the character. As a result, Mickey Mouse was made, but many of the Oswald cartoons were either misplaced or destroyed. But in 2006, Disney reclaimed the rights to Oswald, and since then, several of the disappeared cartoons have been restored.

The First Disney Princess

Think Snow White was the first princess? Not exactly. Disney's actual first princess may have been Persephone, featured in the 1934 short The Goddess of Spring. Though not widely known, this character laid the groundwork for later heroines like Aurora and Ariel. To learn more about Disney timelines, check out the official FAQ.

The Abandoned Water Park, River Country

River Country was Disney’s first water park, opening in 1976 near Fort Wilderness. Closed in 2001, it remained untouched for years before being replaced by new developments. Images of the overgrown site circulated among fans, making it a symbol of forgotten Disney attractions.

The Infamous "Disneyland Memorial Orgy"

In 1967, during the Summer of Love, an underground newspaper called The Realist published a controversial poster titled "Disneyland Memorial Orgy." The poster depicted Disney characters engaging in various activities, causing a public outcry. Disney tried to stop the poster's distribution, but it only made it more popular. The "Disneyland Memorial Orgy" poster is now a collector's item and a reminder of the counterculture of the late 1960s.

Walt Disney's Secret Apartment

Located above the firehouse on Main Street, USA in Disneyland, Walt Disney’s secret apartment includes a lamp that is always left on in his honor. During park hours, guests can spot the lamp as a tribute to Walt’s enduring legacy. This location is one of the hidden gems many fans overlook during visits.

Conclusion

The magic of Disney is built on imagination and storytelling, but the real-life stories behind its creations are just as fascinating. From early animation studios to hidden apartments and legendary ghosts, this glimpse into Disney history you may not know reveals the heart and humor behind the magic. For more Disney insights or to learn how to make your magical memories, explore the benefits of DVC membership, or view DVC resale listings today.