Disneyland 1950's Home Movies: Happy Anniversary Disneyland! Celebrating 55 Years!

On July 17, 1955, Americans got their first glimpse of Disneyland when it's dedication was televised around the nation. The grand opening to the general public was the very next day. This weekend celebrates Disneyland's 55th anniversary! 

The Dedication Day of July 17th sounded like chaos, from what I have read about it. Only special, invited guests were supposed to attend, but more than twice the expected number of people were there because of counterfeit tickets. The temperature was over 100 degrees, drinking fountains weren't working, and women's high heels were sinking into the asphalt. The Wikipedia entry about that day is very interesting. Skip down to where it says "July, 1955: Dedication Day and Opening Day" :

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Disneyland_Park_(Anaheim)

It's just a reminder that we shouldn't get discouraged if things don't work out well the first time we try them, nor should small businesses panic if the business feels like a disaster in the beginning. Disneyland's grand opening the next day went better than the day before, and as we know, the park continued to get better over time. Disneyland quickly realized over the next few years which attractions weren't as popular, so they tweaked some of the less popular attractions, and got rid of some of the other less popular attractions, replacing them with newer, more exciting attractions. Since opening day, HUNDREDS of MILLIONS of people have visited Disneyland. 

The YouTube video above shows Disneyland in the 1950's. You'll see original 1950's Disneyland home movie clips and photos. Thank you to disneylandtourdotcom for posting this nostalgic 50's Disneyland video on YouTube! Here is part two: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cW6ZkAx-4yw&feature=related

For the full DVD, go to: http://www.miceandmagic.com