62 Rare Historical Photos

Colorized picture of Walt Disney proudly showing a map of his first theme park called "Disneyland" [1955].

Often our knowledge and perceptions of the past are challenged, especially as rare photos finally reach the surface. We discover new things about political figures, icons of popular culture, and even gain insights into old practices and important historical events… 

Pictured here is Walt Disney when he unveiled his plans for Disneyland on national television, October 27, 1954. He showed this early rendering of the park during the premiere of "Disneyland" the television show. Opening day was less than a year later, July 17, 1955. 

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Disneyland was the first of two theme parks that were built at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California and it’s the only theme park that was both designed and built under Walt Disney’s direct supervision. 

After visiting a string of amusement parks with his daughters back in the 1930s and 1940s, Walt decided he wanted to create his own. His initial vision was to build his attraction adjacent to his studios in Burbank. But he figured, go big or go home, and went with purchasing 160-acres and began construction in 1954.