This Day in Disney History- December 15
Welcome back to our trip through the history of the Walt Disney Company. Today we are looking at the events on this day in Disney history- December 15.
I don’t think its an exaggeration to say that December 15th may just be the most important date in the history of the Walt Disney Company. Walt Disney World saw the opening of two major attractions and the beginning of construction on another.
Meanwhile, a classic Disney animated film was released, and a new installment in Star Wars debuted. Most importantly however, December 15th is the day that we lost Walter Elias Disney. Here’s what happened.
Out on a Limb Released (1950)
On this day in 1950, the Donald Duck short Out on a Limb was released.
Directed by Jack Hannah, Out on a Limb tells the story of tree surgeon Donald Duck. When examining a tree in the forest, he comes into conflict with the mischievous Chip and Dale.
Walter Elias Disney Passes Away (1966)
On this day in 1966, Walter Elias Disney passed away at St. Joseph’s Hospital.
The founder and genius behind the Walt Disney Company, Walt’s death would leave an immeasurable shadow over the company’s future.
Although Disneyland considered closing in respect for Walt’s death, it was eventually decided that he would want the park to remain open.
Walt Disney was 65 years old when he died, but his legacy has lived on.
Space Mountain Construction Begins (1972)
On this day in 1972, construction began on Space Mountain in Walt Disney World.
The Magic Kingdom’s first roller coaster, Space Mountain was an instant classic. The attraction would eventually open in 1975.
Pirates of the Caribbean Opens (1973)
On this day in 1973, Pirates of the Caribbean opened in Walt Disney World.
Although Disney had initially decided not to create a version of Pirates of the Caribbean in Walt Disney World, visitor demand for the ride eventually led to company to change their mind.
Walt Disney World’s Pirates of the Caribbean is housed in the Castillo Del Morro in the Caribbean Plaza section of Adventureland.
Star Tours Debuts (1989)
On this day in 1989, Star Tours opened at the Disney-MGM Studios.
A collaboration between Lucasfilms and Walt Disney Imagineering, Star Tours takes guests into a galaxy far, far away for a Star Wars adventure.
Toy Story Pizza Planet Arcade Opens (1995)
On this day in 1995, the Toy Story Pizza Planet Arcade opened at the Disney-MGM Studios.
Based on the iconic restaurant franchise in the Disney-Pixar film Toy Story, the Disney-MGM Studios locale combined a counter service restaurant and an arcade.
The Emperor’s New Groove Released (2000)
On this day in 2000, The Emperor’s New Groove was released.
Eventually envisioned as a musical epic titled Kingdom of the Sun featuring music by Sting, the film eventually pivoted to become lighthearted comedy.
Despite its problems during productions, the Emperor’s New Groove proved to be financially successful and popular with critics.
Star Wars: The Last Jedi Debuts (2017)
On this day in 2017, Star Wars: The Last Jedi was released in the theaters.
The second installment in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, The Last Jedi sees heroine Rey honing her Jedi abilities under the guidance of Luke Skywalker.
How was that for a day in history? These have been the events on this day in Disney history- December 15. Be sure to come back tomorrow for another (perhaps less eventful) day!