This Day in Disney History- February 1
Welcome back to our continuing trip through the history of the Walt Disney Company! Today we are looking at the events on this day in Disney history- February 1.
February 1st featured the debut of a new Epcot pavilion, the retirement of a Disney Legend, and the closure of an original Magic Kingdom show. Sounds exciting right? Let’s get into it!
Tony Baxter Born (1947)
On this day in 1947, Imagineer Tony Baxter was born in Los Angeles, California.
Credit: D23
Originally hired at the Disneyland Resort in 1965 as an ice cream scooper, Baxter would eventually becoming Senior Vice President of Creative Development at Walt Disney Imagineering.
During his 47 year career, Baxter would lead the creation of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Splash Mountain, Journey Into Imagination and Disneyland Paris!
Disneyland’s Mule Pack Ride and Stage Coach Closes (1956)
On this day in 1956, the Mule Pack Ride and Stage Coach attraction closed in Disneyland’s Frontierland.
Photo: Disney
Both attractions were opening day attractions that gave guests a taste of life in the Old West.
The Department of Defense leases the Disney Inn
On this day in 1994, The U.S. Department of Defense leased the Disney Inn at Walt Disney World.
After leasing the resort the DOD would rename it Shades of Green.
Diamond Horseshoe Revue Closes (2003)
On this day in 2003, Walt Disney World’s Diamond Horseshoe Revue closed.
The Western saloon revue originally opened with the park in 1971. At one time in the park’s history, the show was shown up to 10 times a day.
Hannah Montana and Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Released (2008)
On this day in 2008, Hannah Montana and Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Concert was released.
The film documented Miley Cyrus’ 2007 tour. It would be shown in theaters for one week before premiering on Disney Channel later in the year.
Tony Baxter Retires (2013)
On this day in 2013, Tony Baxter retired from Walt Disney Imagineering.
Photo: Disney Parks
The legendary Imagineer agreed to stay on as an advisor to Walt Disney Imagineering. Interestingly, Baxter retired on his 66th birthday!
The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure Opens (2021)
On this day in 2021, The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure opened in Epcot.
Located in the American Adventure pavilion, the new exhibit features Joe Gardner from the animated film Soul. who shared the history of jazz.
That concludes this day in Disney history- February 1. So, be sure to come back tomorrow to see what happens next!
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