While I’m sure this system was replaced years ago, it sure was state of the art in 1959.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Can you hear me now? Altec Lansing - May 1959
From May 1959 "Architectural Record", here is a fascinating look at one of the early Disneyland sound systems.
While I’m sure this system was replaced years ago, it sure was state of the art in 1959.
While I’m sure this system was replaced years ago, it sure was state of the art in 1959.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Going Fishing - one last time
I got a last minute opportunity to go camping for a couple days to end out the summer, so I'll see you back here Tuesday....
Friday, September 12, 2008
Souvenir Saturday & a Trip Report
Souvenir Saturday is brought to you today courtesy of Major Pepperidge over at Gorilla’s don’t’ blog. Thanks Major!
This Grad Nite ’70 souvenir photo is interesting. The cover has cool “1970” graphics.
The photo inside however is puzzling. Did they still have this photo op in Frontierland in 1970? And if so, what is with that kid?
Trip report:
Going to Disneyland on September 11th was a little odd, but all the guests seemed to be having a grand time. The crowds were thin all day. When I arrive at the parking lot the attendant told me it would be a light day, 29 thousand expected for both parks, how do they know that?
New Guide cover, I think it’s super!
Too bad the map inside still has the old Monorail. Well, I guess the old Monorail is still clunking around the beam for a while longer.
I was greeted by these two while trying to take a photo of the flag pole. The “heads” sure look neat up close, I bet those cost some serious $$$.
The flag at half-staff with a grey overcast sky in the background, somber indeed.
This is the way I like Adventureland, where you can actually see the ground.
My favorite first stop when I arrive at the park at opening, the River Belle.
Yummy stuff. I always try and time it just right to get my pancakes fresh of the griddle.
Oh boy, the best $11 breakfast I’ve found at any Disney property.
Yawn…
That one raft kept circling the Island at a pretty good rate of speed, I want to do that!
I’ve seen this carriage before, what it ever used as an attraction?
This one I’m pretty sure was used as an attraction at one time. It’s great they still have these things, I would die to see all the stuff they have back stage and in storage!
Let’s talk bridge for a moment. I did a post back in July comparing one of the bridges from the hub to the Plaza gardens. Comparing it with older photos, it seems to be very original. In the previous Plaza Gardens bridge post (link) you can see the floor boards of the bridge appear to be very old and worn (millions of feet will do that).
Maybe it’s just pure coincidence or maybe the Mouse reads my blog, but that little worn bridge is now covered and under construction!
Here’s a peak behind the curtain, yup, they are replacing the floor boards!
Here’s a quick video where you can hear the saws and hammers banging. Also notice the other wooden bridge to the north of this one.
This bridge escaped my notice on my last visit, but check it out, it looks pretty worn out too. The maintenance guys better take up shop here next.
Actually, this bridge looks in worse shape than the other one.
Since I seem to be pointing out some maintenance issues, this is disturbing. This shot of the Monorail is just to give you a reference point.
I sure HOPE that’s just paint that’s cracked.
The whole beam in this spot shakes pretty good when the monorail rolls over this area. Note to self; do not eat under the beam.
Time for Lunch (yes I like to eat at Disneyland). Rancho del Zocalo is one of my favorites. I just love the food and the atmosphere. Did I mention there were no crowds?
Lots of pretty flowers.
Soft Chicken Tacos Monterey, another deal at just $12 including drink (with AP discount).
Three Fences is doing well. It could use a visit from the gardening folks pretty soon.
What in the heck is with this? Someone take that can of blue paint away from the maintenance people!
Is this a promise or a question?
Esmeralda is looking well.
Here’s the prophecies she read for me.
The Dapper Dans are singing there hearts out, boy do they sound good with that hidden sound system!
I hope you enjoyed the trip as viewed from my odd perspective. See you tomorrow on Bonus Sunday!
This Grad Nite ’70 souvenir photo is interesting. The cover has cool “1970” graphics.
The photo inside however is puzzling. Did they still have this photo op in Frontierland in 1970? And if so, what is with that kid?
Trip report:
Going to Disneyland on September 11th was a little odd, but all the guests seemed to be having a grand time. The crowds were thin all day. When I arrive at the parking lot the attendant told me it would be a light day, 29 thousand expected for both parks, how do they know that?
New Guide cover, I think it’s super!
Too bad the map inside still has the old Monorail. Well, I guess the old Monorail is still clunking around the beam for a while longer.
I was greeted by these two while trying to take a photo of the flag pole. The “heads” sure look neat up close, I bet those cost some serious $$$.
The flag at half-staff with a grey overcast sky in the background, somber indeed.
This is the way I like Adventureland, where you can actually see the ground.
My favorite first stop when I arrive at the park at opening, the River Belle.
Yummy stuff. I always try and time it just right to get my pancakes fresh of the griddle.
Oh boy, the best $11 breakfast I’ve found at any Disney property.
Yawn…
That one raft kept circling the Island at a pretty good rate of speed, I want to do that!
I’ve seen this carriage before, what it ever used as an attraction?
This one I’m pretty sure was used as an attraction at one time. It’s great they still have these things, I would die to see all the stuff they have back stage and in storage!
Let’s talk bridge for a moment. I did a post back in July comparing one of the bridges from the hub to the Plaza gardens. Comparing it with older photos, it seems to be very original. In the previous Plaza Gardens bridge post (link) you can see the floor boards of the bridge appear to be very old and worn (millions of feet will do that).
Maybe it’s just pure coincidence or maybe the Mouse reads my blog, but that little worn bridge is now covered and under construction!
Here’s a peak behind the curtain, yup, they are replacing the floor boards!
Here’s a quick video where you can hear the saws and hammers banging. Also notice the other wooden bridge to the north of this one.
This bridge escaped my notice on my last visit, but check it out, it looks pretty worn out too. The maintenance guys better take up shop here next.
Actually, this bridge looks in worse shape than the other one.
Since I seem to be pointing out some maintenance issues, this is disturbing. This shot of the Monorail is just to give you a reference point.
I sure HOPE that’s just paint that’s cracked.
The whole beam in this spot shakes pretty good when the monorail rolls over this area. Note to self; do not eat under the beam.
Time for Lunch (yes I like to eat at Disneyland). Rancho del Zocalo is one of my favorites. I just love the food and the atmosphere. Did I mention there were no crowds?
Lots of pretty flowers.
Soft Chicken Tacos Monterey, another deal at just $12 including drink (with AP discount).
Three Fences is doing well. It could use a visit from the gardening folks pretty soon.
What in the heck is with this? Someone take that can of blue paint away from the maintenance people!
Is this a promise or a question?
Esmeralda is looking well.
Here’s the prophecies she read for me.
The Dapper Dans are singing there hearts out, boy do they sound good with that hidden sound system!
I hope you enjoyed the trip as viewed from my odd perspective. See you tomorrow on Bonus Sunday!
"Light Magic" Promo Still
A quick post today, I'm still recovering from a long and grand day at Disneyland yesterday!
"Light Magic" I was at Disneyland in 1997 and don't recall seeing this mess at all. I must have been in my "avoid the parade" mode, from what I can tell, that was a good decision.
While "Light Magic" probably didn't photograph to well, it still looks weird and disjointed, Pooh looks a little lost...
Come back tomorrow for Souvenir Saturday Plus a trip report from 9/11 at Disneyland.
"Light Magic" I was at Disneyland in 1997 and don't recall seeing this mess at all. I must have been in my "avoid the parade" mode, from what I can tell, that was a good decision.
While "Light Magic" probably didn't photograph to well, it still looks weird and disjointed, Pooh looks a little lost...
Come back tomorrow for Souvenir Saturday Plus a trip report from 9/11 at Disneyland.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Fortnight revisited, November 1954 - Before the attitude....
When we previously visited the “Fortnight” Magazine, it was in August 1955 and they had quite the attitude about the newly opened Disneyland. Some readers described the tone as “Snooty, "Snarky" and even more "Stick-up-their-butt’y!" You can read the August 1955 issue here (link) and decide for yourself.
This issue of "Fortnight", from November 17, 1954, had a much better attitude about “Mickey Mouse’s Fabulous New Playground”.
Being 9/11, I decided not to work today, I work in a high-rise building and frankly, it’s just somewhere I’d rather not be today. So “I’m going to Disneyland”, and while I will be having a nice time, I will say a prayer for all those fellow country men and women who lost the lives or loved ones on 9/11. I hope you will do the same.
This issue of "Fortnight", from November 17, 1954, had a much better attitude about “Mickey Mouse’s Fabulous New Playground”.
Interesting how each realm is a “Land” of its own; Adventure Land, Tomorrow Land, etc. “Pirates” in Frontier Land, it will never happen.
“A Paddle Wheel river boat (capacity of 300)” HEY, I thought they didn’t figure out the “capacity” until after the park opened and the Mark Twain almost capsized?
“Passengers can identify the places they are passing; Mt. Vernon, New Orleans, Mobile.”? “Drink root beer at Paul Bunyan’s Bar”? Looks like there were some changes to the plan after this was written.
And for some color, here’s a great ad for Old Sunny Brook Brand whisky. Yup, those guys look just like me and my friends when we go camping: coffee, whiskey, a large ax and fishing poles, ah the good life.
Being 9/11, I decided not to work today, I work in a high-rise building and frankly, it’s just somewhere I’d rather not be today. So “I’m going to Disneyland”, and while I will be having a nice time, I will say a prayer for all those fellow country men and women who lost the lives or loved ones on 9/11. I hope you will do the same.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Magic Mountain August 1973 - Part 1
I recently came across a great set of amateur slides from August 1973 of Magic Mountain in Valencia California. There was only one problem, and its name is MAGENTA! These slides had turned the most vivid shade of magenta I have ever seen. I figured these were beyond repair, but I sent them to my buddy Dave over at Daveland and he was able to restore a great deal of color. Thanks Dave, we all greatly appreciate it!
There are about 25 slides so I will be breaking this series into three parts. I also have some fun stuff to include with each post. Check back on the next two Wednesday s for part’s 2 and 3.
“It’s always best to start at the beginning” so let’s take a look at a pre-opening article in the “Amusement Business” magazine. This is the March 13, 1971 issue. The tower was originally designed (by Intamin) to be the Playboy Club in Chicago, but they passed at the last minute so Magic Mountain bought it.
LOTS of details and data. That’s the Four Winds restaurant being built, the building is still there (with awesome views) but the last time I checked, it was closed. If you want to see a pre-opening brochure and inaugural day ticket, see my earlier post here (link). Magic Mountain would open on May 29, 1971.
A close-up of the Tower. The height scares me, but I will go up next time because there is a great Magic Mountain museum at the top! If you look closely in this photo, you can see people on the lower level. The lower level was screened in, no windows. The lower level is closed to the public now. In the "Playboy" version, this level was going to be the lounge, with the restaurant on the top level.
Taken from the tower, these are the fountains where the “Valencia Falls” spill into. The building in the lower right is the “Coffee Grinder” which is now the “Internet Cafe”. See the popcorn cart in the upper right? They STILL sell popcorn there, wow!
Three neat views of the Valencia Falls. The Falls were turned off recently for a few years as they built Tatsu. They have now been turned back on, see them on my Magic Mountain post from May (link). I sure dig the “MM” flags!
A few views of the Log Jammer. This view shows one of the lift hills and the first drop, the second drop is a blast, not surpassed until Splash Mountain.
More “flume”, some track from the “Gold Rusher” roller coaster on the left and part of the HUGE Show Case Theater on the right.
The Log Jammer as seen through the windows of the “Four Winds” restaurant.
A couple of Souvenir snaps shots. The Wizard and a couple of Trolls in front of the falls.
The Fountains at night.
Here’s a special treat. I posted this 1971 Magic Mountain Wall Map back in April, but I had to stitch it together myself and it was kind of sloppy. Alan over at the fabulous Wishbookweb (link) was kind enough to stitch it together properly from the four scans. The map shown below is my misaligned scan, but the link here is for the corrected version. Thanks Alan! If you've even been to Magic Mountain in the 1970's, be sure to download this map and study it...
1971 Magic Mountain Wall Map High Res. scan – 15mb
Be sure to check back next Wednesday for Part two.
There are about 25 slides so I will be breaking this series into three parts. I also have some fun stuff to include with each post. Check back on the next two Wednesday s for part’s 2 and 3.
“It’s always best to start at the beginning” so let’s take a look at a pre-opening article in the “Amusement Business” magazine. This is the March 13, 1971 issue. The tower was originally designed (by Intamin) to be the Playboy Club in Chicago, but they passed at the last minute so Magic Mountain bought it.
LOTS of details and data. That’s the Four Winds restaurant being built, the building is still there (with awesome views) but the last time I checked, it was closed. If you want to see a pre-opening brochure and inaugural day ticket, see my earlier post here (link). Magic Mountain would open on May 29, 1971.
A close-up of the Tower. The height scares me, but I will go up next time because there is a great Magic Mountain museum at the top! If you look closely in this photo, you can see people on the lower level. The lower level was screened in, no windows. The lower level is closed to the public now. In the "Playboy" version, this level was going to be the lounge, with the restaurant on the top level.
Taken from the tower, these are the fountains where the “Valencia Falls” spill into. The building in the lower right is the “Coffee Grinder” which is now the “Internet Cafe”. See the popcorn cart in the upper right? They STILL sell popcorn there, wow!
Three neat views of the Valencia Falls. The Falls were turned off recently for a few years as they built Tatsu. They have now been turned back on, see them on my Magic Mountain post from May (link). I sure dig the “MM” flags!
A few views of the Log Jammer. This view shows one of the lift hills and the first drop, the second drop is a blast, not surpassed until Splash Mountain.
More “flume”, some track from the “Gold Rusher” roller coaster on the left and part of the HUGE Show Case Theater on the right.
The Log Jammer as seen through the windows of the “Four Winds” restaurant.
A couple of Souvenir snaps shots. The Wizard and a couple of Trolls in front of the falls.
The Fountains at night.
Here’s a special treat. I posted this 1971 Magic Mountain Wall Map back in April, but I had to stitch it together myself and it was kind of sloppy. Alan over at the fabulous Wishbookweb (link) was kind enough to stitch it together properly from the four scans. The map shown below is my misaligned scan, but the link here is for the corrected version. Thanks Alan! If you've even been to Magic Mountain in the 1970's, be sure to download this map and study it...
1971 Magic Mountain Wall Map High Res. scan – 15mb
Be sure to check back next Wednesday for Part two.
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