FLASHBACK: Roy O Disney Attends Walt Disney Word Dedication Ceremony
I’ve got a fun story for all you Disney historians! Steven Miller at Disney Parks Blog has been taking us on a walk down memory lane as we celebrate Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary. Today, let’s reminisce about that day 50 years ago when Roy O. Disney, Walt’s brother, was on hand to officially dedicate the theme park.
50 years ago to this day, on October 25, 1971, the dedication ceremony took place. At 2pm Roy read the dedication while standing at the podium next to Mickey Mouse.
There’s an image of the plaque above but it’s a bit difficult to read so here it is in it’s entirety:
“Walt Disney World is a tribute to the philosophy and life of Walter Elias Disney … and to the talents, the dedication and the loyalty of the entire Disney organization that made Walt Disney’s dream come true. May Walt Disney World bring joy and inspiration and New Knowledge to all who come to this happy place … a Magic Kingdom where the young at heart of all ages can laugh and play and learn – together.”
After Roy’s remarks there was an official Grand Opening Parade on Main Street U.S.A which we’re told featured Disney characters, toy soldiers and more!
The Herald Trumpeters of the United States Army Band were also on hand to announce the arrive of a massive 1,076 member marching band. The band was famously led by Meredith Wilson who was the composer of The Music Man. Marching band members from Central Florida High Schools were also invited to participate.
A sizeable choir was also there on the day to sing “When You Wish Upon a Star” from the Castle Stage.
You can almost imagine all of the excitement of the crowds walking through Magic Kingdom for the first time! You may not have known this but there is also a tribute to Roy Disney right on Main Street. Just look above the Main Street Confectionary and you’ll see his name immortalized!
We’ve shared some images with you above of the Roy Disney and Minnie Statue. This was actually unveiled on October 25, 1999. This statue is actually called “Sharing the Magic” and it’s dedication ceremony took place right near the spot where Roy conducted his 1971 dedication.
The “Sharing the Magic Statue” is also connected to the famous “Partners” statue found at the HUB. Both statues were actually created by the same artist – Disney Legend Blaine Gibson! You can see the statue to this day just outside of City Hall!
Readers are encouraged to keep following along with MickeyBlog for further Walt Disney World news and updates.
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