#Disneyland60....Today In Disneyland History....September 14, 2012

Mickey’s Halloween Party Kicks Off

September 14, 2012

On September 14, 2012 Halloween Time officially began at the Disneyland Resort. This year, Park guests can took part in such spooky events as The Halloween Carnival at Big Thunder Ranch Jamboree in Frontierland, Disney’s Happiest Haunts Guided Tour, "The Art of Frankenweenie Exhibition" and The Pirates League. With Mickey’s Halloween Party came a wide variety of spooktacular activities perfect for this Bootiful time of year at Disneyland.  Disneyland was transformed into the ultimate “neighborhood” for Trick-or-Treating during Mickey’s Halloween Party.

This separate ticketed event included such perennial favorites as:

·         Halloween Screams fireworks spectacular, exclusively for Mickey’s Halloween Party guests

·        Admission to the Disneyland Park up to 3 hours prior to the event’s start time

·        Meet-and-greets with your Disney and Pixar pals and Disney Villains

·        Special treat stations offering both yummy candy and healthy goodies

·        Mickey’s Costume Party Cavalcade

·        Special dance parties

In addition, access to nearly all attractions, including all the Halloween-themed attractions such as Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy and Haunted Mansion Holiday were ready to take you to another world. 

Continuing the tradition, tickets are now on sale for this year’s Mickey’s Halloween Party. Each ticket includes:

Admission to Disneyland Park up to 3 hours prior to the event's start time.

Complimentary parking for one standard-size vehicle. Larger vehicles may require an additional fee.

Ticket and Event Information:

• May not be combined with other discounts.
• No ticket is required for Guests 2 and under.
• Space is limited and tickets are available while supplies last. Subject to capacity and other restrictions.
• Tickets are valid for admission to the designated party and to the theme park beginning at a specified time prior to party commencement.
• Tickets are nonrefundable and may not be sold or transferred for commercial use.
• Days and times of operation and all other elements including, but not limited to, operation of attractions, entertainment, services, stores and restaurants, appearances of Disney Characters and applicable theme park may vary and are subject to change without notice.

Mickey’s Halloween Party starts September 26 and runs on select dates through October 31.  To purchase tickets, head on over to Mickey's Halloween Party but don’t be left with an empty Trick or Treat bag-this event sells out every year.  Boo to you! That’s what happened today in Disneyland history.  

#DIsneyland60....Today In Disneyland History....September 11, 2001

The Day That Would Change The WorldSeptember 11, 2001

September 11, 2001 will forever be a somber reminder in not just Disneyland history but in the hearts and minds of Americans everywhere and permanently etched in our and proof that from the ashes, remarkable things can arise.   That fateful morning of September 11, 2001 brought about the morning terrorist attacks on The Pentagon, New York City's World Trade Center, and in the air over Pennsylvania, The Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, and The Disneyland Resort in California, closed without incident.  The closures marked only the second time Disneyland has locked its gates in its then 56-year history due to a national tragedy. The first time followed the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in November 1963. All resort hotels remain opened and provides accommodations to guests who were unable to leave. Phone charges were suspended so that guests could reach family. 

 At Disney World, Cast Members in all 4 parks are instructed to hold hands and form a human wall and gently, without touching guests, walk towards the hub of each park and eventually towards the exit. The result calmly aided all guests in leaving the Parks. Security followed each human wall to make sure no guest was able to get past.

At Disneyland Resort, which had not yet opened when the attacks occurred and thus were able to remain closed for the day, the food and beverage stations remained open at no charge for guests who were on property. AMC Theaters at Downtown Disney showed free Disney films for stranded Resort guests.  Across the county, The Disney Stores also closed for the day as did Disney's Broadway shows in New York and on the road. Like hundreds of other families around the world, Disney also lost one of its own when John Beug, a former vice president at Walt Disney Records, lost his life as a passenger on the plane that struck 1 World Trade Center.

Michael Eisner released a statement to Cast Members explaining the Disney closings. In closing, he ended his note with these words:

"Finally let me say our company around the world will continue to operate in this sometimes violent world in which we live, offering products that reach to the higher and more positive side of the human equation."

Each year, to commemorate Patriot’s Day, a special Flag Retreat ceremony is held on Main Street.  No one will ever forget how the world was changed this day in history but the resilience and spirit of people everywhere showed we can and will go on.  And that's what happened today in our history. 

"Tomorrow will be better as long as America keeps alive the

ideals of freedom and a better life ..." - Walt Disney

#Disneyland60....Today In Disneyland History....September 8, 1998

Disneyland Submarine Takes Last Voyage

September 8, 1998

On September 8, 1998, Disneyland's Submarine Voyage attraction closed its hatch with a 7 a.m. ceremony officiated by U.S. Navy Commander Robert Thomas. Started in June 1959, the Nautilus and seven sister submarines - the Triton, Sea Wolf, Skate, Skipjack, George Washington, Patrick Henry, and Ethan Allen - had allowed 38 Disneyland guests at a time to take their own voyage with a major portion of the  simulated  voyage taking place under the Arctic Ocean's polar ice cap. 

 The attraction, which featured ride vehicles designed to look like Navy nuclear submarines, opened on June 14, 1959 as the Submarine Voyage and was one of the first rides to require an E ticket. The Submarine Voyage was part of a major expansion of Tomorrowland and Fantasyland, which also included the Matterhorn Bobsleds roller coaster, an expanded version of Autopia, the Disneyland Monorail, and the Motor Boat Cruise with the attraction originally planned to feature glass-bottom boats and when initially conceived, the Submarine Voyage was to feature real fish and other sea creatures, though the idea proved to be unfeasible. 

 It closed on September 9, 1998, at that time, it was reported that the attraction would reopen with a new theme by 2003, but that did not come to pass. The attraction ultimately reopened in June 2007 themed to Disney·Pixar's Finding Nemo, and now operates as Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage. 

 Currently, the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage is also undergoing reimagining but it is tentatively planned to reopen this fall.  Whether it is to the North Pole, or to Australia, the Submarines at Disneyland remain one of its iconic attractions.  And that’s what happened today in Disneyland history.  

#Disneyland60....Today In Disneyland History....September 7, 2011

Finishing Touches Put on Carthay Circle

September 7, 2011

On September 7, 2011, Walt Disney Imagineering put the finishing touches on the new Carthay Circle Restaurant at Disney California Adventure Park with its crowning feature – a cupola modeled after the one which sat atop the real theatre which was the site of the 1937 world premiere of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.  

In June 2012, a fanciful larger-scale replica of the theater building was finally opened in the Buena Vista Street section of Disney California Adventure Park. Although this replica is larger than a version that opened as the "Once Upon a Time" gift shop on the Sunset Boulevard section in Disney's Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, it is still slightly smaller than the 1926 original, and has a modified exterior footprint and interior floor plan. While there is no actual theatre inside, the building houses the "Carthay Circle Lounge" on the first floor, and both the "Carthay Circle Restaurant" and the members-only "Club 1901" on the second floor. The restaurant is located on a circular plaza known as Carthay Circle on the new Buena Vista Street giving the impression that the theater is named for its location on a circular plaza. Also, the original's signature circular floor plan is absent from the replica building, and the circular parapet is squared off from the outside. Carthay Circle Restaurant occupies the second floor of a detailed reproduction of the iconic Carthay Circle Theatre. 

The decor reflects the romance and glamour of Hollywood’s Golden Age, including references to the accomplishments of Walt Disney and his original animators. See Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Courvoisier cels—the only animated art ever to hang in Walt Disney’s home—and charming pastoral scenes from the movie painted on the vaulted ceiling of the main dining room. Advance reservations for dining at Carthay Circle Restaurant are highly recommended. For booking, please check availability and make your reservations online, or call (714) 781-DINE or (714) 781-3463 up to 60 days prior to your visit. Reservations can also be made in person on a limited basis, subject to availability.  Better yet, take advantage of the World of Color Dining Package which includes a 3 course prix fix meal as well as seats in the preferred viewing area for the nightly spectacular World of Color.  Whether stopping in for a relaxing break in the Lounge, or enjoying one of the best meals Disneyland has to offer, don’t miss Carthay Circle Restaurant.  And that’s what happened today in Disneyland history.  

#Disneyland60...Today In Disneyland History.....September 5, 2001

Rocket Rods Close

September 5, 2001

On September 5, 2001 Rocket Rods, a high-speed Tomorrowland attraction closed. The Rocket Rod took riders through the building housing Star Tours, Star Trader and the Starcade, offering views of all three through a glass tunnel.  The ride, meant to evoke a futuristic rapid transit system.  Opening on May 22, 1998 as part of the New Tomorrowland, this high-speed attraction ran on a renovated PeopleMover track. Riders entered the attraction through the former Circle-Vision 360° building at the front of Tomorrowland.

Guests boarded an unusual 5-seat Rocket Rod before moving forward to a staging area similar to one used for drag racing. Anticipation was built by the lights changing from red, to yellow, to green, and then having the vehicle zoom down a straightaway toward the entrance of Tomorrowland, before quickly decelerating at the curve in the track. During the development phase, Disney was unable to obtain sponsors to aid in the funding of the attraction; thus, the turns remained without any super elevation, requiring the sudden acceleration/deceleration. When the attraction was open, this straightaway was used for a small wheelie as well. Segments of the tunnel were entirely opaque, and one turn created the effect of nearly colliding with an oncoming Rocket Rod. In reality, this was only the vehicle's reflection in a mirror. 

Afterwards, the Rocket Rod took guests into Space Mountain, during which the riders could catch a very brief glimpse of the ride. The vehicle then took riders back outside again before entering the Carousel Theater, home of Innoventions. Due to the long, slightly curved nature of this stretch of track, the Rocket Rods were able to accelerate to a comparatively high speed here. After leaving the other side of Innoventions, the Rocket Rod took riders through a series of turns and dips above Autopia and the Submarine Voyage, which closed only a few months after the opening of Rocket Rods.

Finally, the Rod passed next to the Disneyland Monorail station before entering the Rocket Rods queue building, where the riders were surprised by a strobe light and blast of air. The vehicle then traveled along the straightaway from the first leg of the ride back to the station.

Rocket Rods was the first Disneyland attraction to house a Single Rider line due to its long lines and limited capacity.  Throughout the years, rumors continue to surface about new uses for the still remaining tracks, but the thrill of riding the Rocket Rods will live on in the memories of those lucky enough to blast off.  And that’s what happened today in Disneyland history. 

#Disneyland60.....Today In Disneyland History....September 4, 2001

Disneyana Convention Held

September 4, 2001

On September 4, 2001 The Official Disneyana Convention took place at the Disneyland Resort. This 5-day event is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to acquire unusual Disney collectibles and meet legendary Disney personalities.  The first Disneyana Convention actually took place in 1992 at Walt Disney World in Orlando.  The original event was created in response to the ever-growing sector of Disneyana collectors.  

 

The convention became an annual event through 2002, including the one held at the Disneyland Resort and regularly drew thousands of Disney collectors.  The highlight of each event was the unique themed buttons and badges that were given out to each attendee in their welcome kit.  Each convention also featured a limited edition resin figure that was sold through a lottery system.  The limited production and distribution of these pieces made them instant treasures.

2003 marked the end of the Disneyana convention being hosted by the Walt Disney Company. Disneyana is a term for a wide variety of collectible toys, books, animation cels, theme-park souvenirs, ephemera and other items produced by The Walt Disney Company. Examples range from products featuring virtually every Disney character—such as Mickey Mouse, Tinker Bell and others—to vintage stock certificates and company checks bearing the signature of Walt Disney.  

The Art Corner was a retail store that operated at Disneyland from 1955 until 1966 which sold souvenirs and Disneyana items. The Walt Disney Company subsequently opened "Disneyana Shops" on Main Street, U.S.A. at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World. High end collectible paintings, prints and figurines can now be found at The Disney Gallery and "Art of Disney Parks" stores.

The ranks of Disneyana enthusiasts grew exponentially throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Today collectors can find Disneyana items for sale through a variety of online auction sites, at regional and international comic shows and other collector events. The "Official Disneyana Convention" and Disney D23 Expo are examples of events produced by the Disney Company that prominently feature collectible items. The company produces many other specialty themed events at their parks and resorts that cater to Disneyana collectors. 

 On August 14, 2015, D23 Expo will make its return to the Anaheim Convention Center near the Disneyland Resort.  The largest Disney fan event in the world, the D23 Expo celebrates all the wonderful worlds of Disney entertainment, uniting all parts of The Walt Disney Company under one roof.  Be sure to get your tickets early for the always sold out D23 Expo. And that’s what happened today in Disneyland history.  

#Disneyland60...Today in Disneyland History....September 3, 2007

2^nd Annual Disneyland Half Marathon

September 3, 2007

On September 3, 2007, Disneyland's 2nd Annual Half Marathon ("The Happiest Race on Earth") took place with more than 13,000 runners. The runner with the fastest time that year was Carlos Carballo, 24 of Cathedral City, California, with a posted time of 1:10:07 but as with all runDisney events, everyone runner is a winner.  Today the Disneyland Half Marathon has grown into one of the premiere events of its kind.  It's the place where runners' dreams come true and all held at the Happiest Place on Earth, the Disneyland Resort. When you participate in one of these magical events, you are literally putting yourself in the middle of all the excitement with spectacular runs on magical courses, special events, rundisney Kids Races, Disneyland 10K and the Dumbo Double Dare. Come join the Happiest Race on Earth!

For that ultimate challenge, there is the Dumbo Double Dare. If you think that a half marathon is just a walk in the park, you are invited to put your endurance to the test with this a 19.3-mile adventure held over two days. Participants in the Dumbo Double Dare run the Disneyland 10K on Saturday, followed by the Disneyland Half Marathon on Sunday. If you finish both races within the pacing requirements, you will be awarded the Dumbo Double Dare medal in addition to your Half Marathon and 10K finisher medals.

Think you have what it takes to do it Coast to Coast? Then this is for you. Do you want the ultimate test in endurance with a Disney twist? Then join the runDisney Coast to Coast Race Challenge! If you complete a runDisney half marathon or marathon at the Walt Disney World Resort and a half marathon at the Disneyland Resort in the same calendar year, then you will receive a Coast to Coast Race Challenge medal commemorating your achievement!

Special in 2015, a pink edition of the Coast to Coast Race Challenge medal can be earned by running the 2015 Tinker Bell Half Marathon in May and the 2015 Disney Princess Half Marathon in February. Those who complete this combo of races will receive this newly created medal only at the 2015 Tinker Bell Half Marathon.

Also in 2015, participants who complete the Tinker Bell Half Marathon, Disney Princess Half Marathon, and another eligible pair of Disneyland Resort & Walt Disney World Resort races will be eligible to receive the original Coast to Coast Race Challenge medal in addition to the pink version of the Coast to Coast Race Challenge medal.

First, second, or second from last, every runner in every race – from Disneyland Half Marathon and Dumbo Double Dare to Disneyland 10K, 5K and runDisney Kid Races - felt the exhilaration and excitement of having run their best race, and brought home magical memories to last a lifetime.  Be sure to check out runDisney for all the latest in race events and you too can “Run like the wind Bullseye”. And that’s what happened today in Disneyland history.  

#Disneyland60....Today in Disneyland History.......September 2, 1979

The Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Opens

September 2, 1979

On September 2, 1979, The Big Thunder Mountain Railroad attraction opened in Disneyland's Frontierland. The "wildest ride in the wilderness" takes guests careening through dark caverns and abandoned mines. Imagineer Tony Baxter modeled the attraction after the scenery of Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah. The exciting Big Thunder Mountain replaced the more sedate Mine Train Through Nature's Wonderland.  Big Thunder Mountain Railroad was designed by Imagineer Tony Baxter and ride design engineer Bill Watkins. The concept came from Baxter's work on fellow Imagineer Marc Davis's concept for the Western River Expedition, a western-themed pavilion at the Magic Kingdom, designed to look like an enormous plateau and contain many rides, including a runaway mine train roller coaster. However, because the pavilion as a whole, was deemed too expensive in light of the 1973 construction and opening of Pirates of the Caribbean, Baxter proposed severing the mine train and building it as a separate attraction. The Big Thunder Mountain Railroad project was put on hold again in 1974 as resources and personnel were being diverted to work on constructing Space Mountain over in Tomorrowland, but this delay may have ultimately produced a smoother ride as the use of computers in attraction design was just beginning when the project was resumed.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad was one of the first Disney rides to utilize computer-aided design.  Several tributes to the Mine Train Through Natures Wonderland are present at the Disneyland version. A scaled-down western town sits adjacent to the queuing lines and tracks returning to station. A Western saloon, hotel, assayer's office and mercantile appear among the buildings. This is the village of Rainbow Ridge, which used to overlook the loading platform of the sedate Mine Train through Nature's Wonderland. Disneyland's version of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad was built on the land the Mine Train used to occupy. Many of the animal animatronics throughout the attraction are animatronic animals from the previous attraction. Other allusions to the Mine Train through Nature's Wonderland include:

·        The Rainbow Caverns (glowing pools of water by the first lift hill)

·        Precariously balanced rocks in the third lift hill

·        The name of the ride itself, "Big Thunder", was originally the name of an enormous waterfall the train passed on the tour. "Little Thunder" was located nearby.

On January 7, 2013, Disneyland closed the ride for an extensive refurbishment that included a new track, trains, scenery, and new ending featuring special effects such as projection mapping and smoke effects. The attraction reopened on March 17, 2014. The new track was fabricated by Dynamic Structures, the company that had previously revalued the coaster track in Space Mountain.  Today, the only question that remains is “Are you ready for the wildest, ride in the wilderness?”   And that’s what happened today in Disneyland history. 

#Disneyland60...... Today In Disneyland History...........September 1, 2009

Dragon Debuts In Fantasmic

September 1, 2009

On September 1, 2009, Fantasmic’s animatronic dragon debuted during the nighttime extravaganza on the Rivers of America after facing technical trouble all summer.  This extravagant musical, pyrotechnic spectacular tells the story of the forces of good and evil as they battle in Mickey’s dream during this 22 minute show. Fantasmic combines fireworks, live actors, water effects, pyrotechnics, music, boats, rafts and projections onto large mist screens featuring reworked Disney animation. The show originated at Disneyland in 1992 after Disneyland's entertainment department was asked to create a nighttime spectacular involving water and fireworks to invigorate the space in front of the Rivers of America. Disneyland Entertainment employed the resources of Walt Disney Feature Animation and Walt Disney Imagineering. Much of the area around the Rivers of America needed to be reworked, including terracing the walkways to accommodate viewing and modifying part of Tom Sawyer Island so that it could act as a stage for much of the show's live action.  Now more than 22 years, thousands of guests have gathered around the banks of the Rivers of America to see if Mickey will be able summon the forces of good to stop the evil for taking over. 

What’s the best way to view Fantasmic? From the comfort of your own reserved seat of course. The Fantasmic! Premium Viewing Dessert Package allows you to take in the show from a preferred perspective near the French Market Restaurant and Café Orleans. This premium viewing option includes a sweet dessert sampler. Guests can reserve your seat up to 30 days before the show by calling (714) 781-SHOW (7469) for ticket prices and to reserve your seat in this elevated section in New Orleans Square. Reserved seating is first come, first served, so get there early!  All guests can become a part of Fantasmic as well as Disneyland Fireworks, World of Color and Mad T Party with your very own Become part of Disneyland Resort nighttime spectaculars with Ear Hats that change colors to correspond with various shows. These technologically advanced Mickey Ears light up to match the colors and flash to the beat of each of the nighttime spectaculars.  When you're not watching the coordinating shows, switch to demo mode and enjoy your own light show.

Glow with the Show Ear Hats are $25, including tax, and are available at World of Disney store in Downtown Disney District and at select Disneyland Park locations, including: Emporium on Main Street, U.S.A. ,Disneyana on Main Street, U.S.A., Pooh Corner in Critter Country, The Star Trader in Tomorrowland, Gag Factory in Mickey's Toontown as well as many merchandise carts.  Be sure to put Fantasmic at the very top of your “must do” list when visiting the Disneyland Resort! “Some imagination, huh?” And that’s what happened today in Disneyland history.  

#Disneyland60......Today In Disneyland History.............August 31, 1948

Early Design Notes of Disneyland Created

August 31, 1948

On August 31, 1948, Walt Disney shared a memo with Disney Studio artist Dick Kelsey describing ideas for an amusement park, which he called "Mickey Mouse Park."  It is one of the earliest detailed descriptions of an amusement park concept that would ultimately become Disneyland. Early on, Walt Disney came up with the concept of Disneyland after visiting various amusement parks with his daughters in the 1930s and 1940s.  Walt Disney was visiting Griffith Park in Los Angeles with his daughters Diane and Sharon. While watching them ride the merry-go-round, he came up with the idea of a place where adults and their children could go and have fun together, though his dream lay dormant for many years. He may have also been influenced by his father's memories of the World's Columbian Exposition of 1893 in Chicago, as his father worked at the Exposition. The Midway Plaisance there included a set of attractions representing various countries from around the world and others representing various periods of man; it also included many rides including the first Ferris wheel, a "sky" ride, a passenger train that circled the perimeter, and a Wild West Show. Another likely influence was Benton Harbor, Michigan's nationally famous House of David's Eden Springs Park.

 Disney visited the park and ultimately bought one of the older miniature trains originally used there; the colony had the largest miniature railway setup in the world at the time.  The earliest documented draft of Disney's plans was sent as a memo to studio production designer Dick Kelsey on August 31, 1948, where "Mickey Mouse Park" began to take formation and become a reality, all based on notes Walt made during his and Ward Kimball's trip to Chicago Railroad Fair the same month, with a two day stop in Henry Ford's Museum and Greenfield Village, a place with attractions like a Main Street and steamboat rides, which he had visited eight years earlier.   Walt’s earliest ideas would also include a Main Street around a railway station, all built around a village green.   It was one of the earliest detailed descriptions of the amusement park that would one day become The Happiest Place on Earth, the Disneyland Resort.  And that’s what happened today in Disneyland history.  

#Disneyland60.....Today In Disneyland History...................August 30, 2007

ASIMO Debuts At Innoventions

August 30, 2007

On August 30, 2007 Disneyland guests experienced the newest version of ASIMO at the Honda ASIMO Theater inside the Innoventions attraction.  Guests visiting the popular Innoventions attraction at the Park could now see ASIMO in an all-new live science show with the all-new ASIMO (Advanced Step in Innovative Mobility)

For the first time, guest were treated to a demonstration as ASIMO interacted with a live host and operated in a modern home environment by using all of its unique technological capabilities, including walking forward and backward, climbing and descending a flight of stairs and taking direction from a person. The 15-minute high-tech demonstration was designed to offer visitors a glimpse into a not-too-distant future when humanoid robots, like ASIMO, will assist humans in their homes.

When ASIMO first made his debut, Koichi Kondo, president and CEO of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. stated, "We are excited to showcase ASIMO's remarkable capabilities in Innoventions at Disneyland, where visitors gain first-hand experience with cutting-edge technologies. Our hope is that ASIMO will inspire young people to dream of what technology will make possible in the future."

Matt Ouimet, then president of the Disneyland Resort added, "We are very pleased to welcome ASIMO and Honda to Disneyland as we celebrate the park's 50th anniversary. Walt Disney always looked for creative ways to showcase the latest technology to guests, so Innoventions is the perfect place to demonstrate ASIMO's advanced abilities."

Say 'Hello' to Honda's ASIMO shows still take place several times daily in the Honda ASIMO Theater in Disneyland, the only permanent installation of ASIMO in North America. 

So just what is Innoventions? Located in the heart of Tomorrowland at Disneyland, Innoventions continuously transforms itself to represent the ever-changing world of technology. Here, Disney celebrates the breakthroughs in science and technology that inspire us in the new millennium -- everything from exploratory medicine to personal global communications to the ultimate in home entertainment. At Innoventions, guests are entertained while they discover tomorrow's technology today through hands-on experiences that activate the imagination and renew our hope for a better tomorrow.  Be sure to stop by and visit ASIMO, as well as the latest visitors from the Marvel Universe on your next visit to the Disneyland and see what the future may hold for you. And that’s what happened today in Disneyland history. 

#DIsneyland60.....Today in Disneyland History...........August 29, 1955

Chicken of the Sea Pirate Ship & Restaurant Opens

August 29, 1955

On August 29, 1955, the Chicken of the Sea Pirate Ship and Restaurant made its debut in Fantasyland in Disneyland.  Sponsored by Van Camp Seafood Company’s Chicken of the Sea tuna, this iconic restaurant was the home of the only takeout tuna sandwiches at Disneyland Park.  Built of wood in the middle of concrete with a small amount of water surrounding it. Tuna sandwiches, tuna salad (served in mini boats), tuna burgers, and hot tuna pies were all served at the Pirate Ship Restaurant at the counter below the deck. The ship featured a blonde mermaid figure-the mermaid was the sponsor’s trademark.

In 1961, The Skull Rock Lagoon was added and served as a scenic backdrop and seating area for patrons of the restaurant. Based on Skull Rock from “Peter Pan,” you could enjoy your food while listening to music & the cascading waterfall. Kids were often chased by Captain Hook behind the waterfalls and through the small caves. At night, the eyes of the Skull glowed green. Skull Rock & the Pirate Ship were both demolished in 1982 to make way for the “new” Fantasyland. The original intent was to move the Pirate Ship near the Storybook Land entrance and recreate Skull Cove, however, the ship (which had either been replaced by a concrete version which was more stable or reinforced with concrete) could not be moved in one piece without damaging it. There was no money in the budget to rebuild her, so she was taken apart instead. The mermaid figurehead was to be removed and saved, but fell out of the sling and broke into many pieces from an Imagineer’s truck when it went over a speed bump. In 1969, the restaurant’s name was changed to Captain Hook’s Galley, when Disneyland Park took over its operation. The ship remained until 1982, when it was demolished for the remodeling of the Fantasyland Area.  When the “new” Fantasyland reopened in 1983, the classic pirate ship was replaced by the new, updated version of Dumbo.  

Luckily, the Pirate ship and Skull Rock are more than just a memory as Imagineers created an incredible new version in Disneyland Paris.  And that’s what happened today in Disneyland history.  

#Disneyland60 ..... Today in Disneyland History................August 28, 2003

Lucky the Dinosaur Roams the Park

August 28, 2003

On August 28, 2003, Lucky the Dinosaur, the first Audio-Animatronic figure to walk freely and interact with park guests, debuted as a test in Disney's California Adventure Park after first premiering at The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles.  Approximately 8 feet tall, Lucky was a green biped dinosaur who pulled a flower-covered cart and was led by Chandler the Dinosaur Handler.  Lucky was the first free-roving creation dreamed up by Disney Imagineering team.  The flower cart Lucky pulled actually concealed Lucky’s computer and power source. Lucky was capable of moving, “talking” in dinosaur language, and responding to guests! Imagineers even went as far as to add thumping sounds that were in sync with Lucky's feet to simulate what a heavy dinosaur might have sounded like when moving.  

In the summer of 2005 Lucky back his cart and traveled to the east coast where he made appearances at Disney's Animal Kingdom in DinoLand USA.  After interacting for a time with guests there, it was time to back his bags once again when he traveled to the other side of the world to Hong Kong Disneyland for the park's grand opening.
Lucky wouldn't be spotted again until the D23 Expo in 2009 - but his technology enabled another free-roving attraction - Muppet Mobile Lab to wow park guests at various Disney theme parks around the world.
With more and more advances in computers, software, miniaturization, and electronics, there’s no telling what the future holds for the Disney Imagineers where the only limits are imagination. Time will tell what new friends we will meet roaming the Parks, but on August 28, it was all about a dinosaur named Lucky.  And that’s what happened today in Disneyland history.