Today Disneyland celebrates its 55th birthday! The Happiest Place On Earth still thrives, considering when it opened, some critics claimed it wouldn't be a success because it lacked a certain "Coney Island" atmosphere. And has this theme park evolved over the years!
My first visit was in 1959...all I remember is crying through the dark rides such as "Snow White" and "Peter Pan." In 1964, it was a different thing entirely. The Matterhorn was without its current special effects...the cars zoomed along in and out of the mountain with its climatic splash at the end.
1968 was awesome...Pirates of the Caribbean was the ultimate dark ride. An amazing special effects ride. And who could forget It's A Small World.
1972...the Main Street Electrical Parade...left guests speechless. All those sparkling lights and the music, "Baroque Ho Down." And it was during the summer of '72 Disneyland had concerts with contemporary pop stars. We got to meet and get an autograph from Sonny Geraci, lead singer of the group Climax. Their one hit was Precious and Few. Remember that?
In the early 80s, as part of the NCEA convention, one of the major book publishing companies, had a teachers night only. From 7PM to 1AM. I've never been to an event such as that...hardly any kids and just teachers having a great time. Best part was Space Mountain and the words I will probably never hear again, "If you'd like another ride, please remain on board." Needless to say, I over dosed three times on this ride. And my co-workers were like children running to Big Thunder Railroad.
And I forget what year Star Tours was introduced, but a year after its introduction, several of us from school went and got a laugh when we told one of the nuns to make sure the door was locked...and she did!
Summer of 1987...Captain Eo starring Michael Jackson...and in 3-d!
The last time I was there was 1991...or the year Indiana Jones was being constructed.
Walt Disney would be amazed how his "child" has grown and given the world such happiness, laughter, smiles. Truly, it will never be finished as long as their is imagination left in the world!
