By: Sam McKim

Date: 1968 (copyright) Walt Disney Productions

Dimensions: 30 x 45 inches (76.2 x 114.3 cm)

Many baby boomers mark stages of their lives according to their trips to Disneyland. which first opened its doors in July 1955. Thus. for many this map of 1968 will be a pleasant journey back in time.

Walt Disney's original idea of building an amusement park for his employees was interrupted by WWII. and when Disney returned to the drawing board following the war. he had plans to build a major park which he planned to call 'Disneylandia'.

Finding financing was not easy but his creation of a TV show on ABC made the idea more interesting to investors. while simultaneously building confidence in Disney himself. Funding was found and work progressed on 21 July 1954. The grand opening took place in July 1955 and by the end of the year there were a number of attractions including five principal areas called Main Street. Adventureland. Fantasyland. Tomorrowland and Frontierland.

This Disney map was published more than a decade after the grand opening of the park and reflects the growth and development. the realization of Disney's dreams and careful planning. At the time this map was published. rides such as the Matterhorn. the Jungle Cruise. Pirates of the Caribbean. the Haunted Mansion or Autopia were most popular. followed by sweeter. gentler places like Small World. Others were delighted with the Tea Cups. At this time it was possible to ride on the rails of the future… the monorail which enclosed most of the park. and the Skyway. a gondola which crisscrossed the park.

This map evokes a bygone era. what seems a sweeter. gentler time. 

Condition: This folding map is in B+ condition with fold separations that have been repaired and reinforced through linen backing preservation.

Inventory #11325

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