1989 Disney MGM Studios Opening Magic Kingdom Club Letter

Below is the letter sent out to Magic Kingdom Club members in 1989 announcing the newest addition to Walt Disney World, Disney-MGM Studios.  The letter provides an interesting overview of the park's opening attractions and original purpose.  As the letter states: "The Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park fulfills a 60-year dream on the part of Florida to regain its position as a center for motion-picture production."  Unfortunately, the park did not evolve as originally envisioned as a working production facility with guest attractions. Instead, Hollywood Studios continues to move in a different direction with a Star Wars themed area on the way.   

1973 Magic Kingdom Jungle Cruise Photo

Here is a photo from 1973 on the Jungle Cruise at Magic Kingdom.  The photo features a elephant hiding in the brush.

1973 Magic Kingdom Parade Donald Duck Photo

Here is a photo from 1973 of the parade at Magic Kingdom.  The photo features Donald Duck riding on a vintage Fire Engine.

1980s Epcot Center Figment Journey Into Imagination Character Patch

Back in the 1980s, Epcot Center sold a number of patches that were themed to the park.  Here is one of the Figment character patches that was for sale.  The patch is still in its original plastic baggie.  The bottom is embroidered (c) 1982 Walt Disney Productions.    

Epcot Center Florida Press Day Guest Badge

On October 2, 1982 a day after the official opening,  Epcot Center held the Florida Press Day where media organizations were invited to experience the new park. This badge would have been given to one of these invitees and worn.

 

1973 View of Disney's Contemporary Resort from the Tomorrowland Skyway Station

This picture shows a view of Disney's Conpemporary Resort taken looking toward the exit at the now extinct Tomorrowland Skyway Station.  The picture in from February of 1973.  It's not clear in the photo whether Space Mountain had begun construction yet or not.  The Walt Disney World Railroad tracks might be visible toward the bottom of the picture.

     

Epcot Center Short Film Donald Duck Video Phone

Here is a bit of a Disney Mystery.  This appears to be an animation cel from an Epcot Center short film with a futuristic Donald Duck using a video phone.  Which film and in what capacity the film was used [education, attraction kiosk] is unknown.  Any thoughts or ideas comment below.