Disneyland 1955

PowerPoint Show by Andrew

Early in his career, Walt Disney had a vision of building an attraction next to his studio to entertain visitors — a place where a whole family could have fun together.

In 1953 he bought 160 acres in Anaheim, California. Two years later, July 17, 1955, the $17 million Disneyland park opened to the public.

The opening was televised, anchored in part by future president Ronald Reagan. 

Walt Disney speaks during a national telecast of the opening of Disneyland.

Costumed actors prepare for the parade celebrating the opening.

Children cross over a moat into the castle at Disneyland.

Children rush into the Fantasyland castle at Disneyland.

Ronald Reagan joins other actors and celebrities attending the opening of Disneyland.

Three-year-old Elaine Long shares a milkshake with Walt Disney after gaining special early admission to Disneyland.

Disneyland host Eddie Fisher gives a drink to aluminum-clad spaceman Don MacDonald as Debbie Reynolds looks on.

Actor Steve Rowland and actresses Kathleen Case and Adelle August play arcade games during the opening day of Disneyland.

Walt Disney, his wife Lillian and their daughter Diane ride a spinning teacup at Disneyland, shortly after its opening.

Actor Steve Rowland shows off his strength while actresses Kathleen Case and Adelle August look on.

Crowds of people watch the Tomorrowland portion of a parade celebrating the opening of Disneyland.

California governor Goodwin J. Knight, left, Walt Disney, right, and Virginia Knight, wife of the governor, ride through Disneyland on opening day.

Children crowd around the entrance to Fantasyland castle.

Police officers chat with a boy outside the Main Street Cinema during opening day at Disneyland.

Walt Disney rides in the parade on opening day.

Art Linkletter interviews Ronald Reagan (left) and Bob Cummings.

Vice President Nixon and family cut the rope on the Disneyland Monorail.

Walt Disney smiles in front of Fantasyland castle.