In 1965, Walt Disney’s Wonderful World of Color aired a special episode to celebrate Disneyland’s 10th anniversary. But in true Walt fashion, the focus wasn’t on the past—it was all about the future.
Touring WED with Walt and Julie
Walt, joined by Disneyland’s first Ambassador Julie Reihm, gives viewers a rare behind-the-scenes look at WED Imagineering. This exclusive tour shows how upcoming attractions and lands were taking shape, including concepts that would become iconic staples of Disneyland.
Mary Blair appears working on the façade for It’s a Small World, which was set to move from the 1964–65 World’s Fair to Disneyland. John Hench—referred to by Walt as “Johnny”—shows off plans for the Plaza Inn. Marc Davis sketches scenes for what was then called the “House of Illusion.” Rolly Crump, whom Walt affectionately calls “Roland,” works on the attraction’s interior, calling it the “Museum of the Weird.”
Haunted Mansion and Pirates Take Shape
This early look at the Haunted Mansion is fascinating. Walt uses several different names for the attraction: the Haunted House, the Museum of the Weird, and the House of Illusion. It wouldn’t be until later that the final name, Haunted Mansion, was chosen. A model of New Orleans Square is also featured, complete with the Blue Bayou Lagoon concept. Walt describes a boat ride through the bayou that leads riders into a pirate-themed adventure—what would eventually become Pirates of the Caribbean.
Disneyland in 1965
The episode wraps with a grand celebration in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle. A giant birthday cake with ten candles is front and center. Walt shares a brief park history and showcases footage from Disneyland’s construction.
The special becomes a time capsule featuring attractions like the Matterhorn Bobsleds, Jungle Cruise, Flying Saucers, Mine Train Through Nature’s Wonderland, and the Enchanted Tiki Room. It ends with a rousing Dixieland band performance aboard the Mark Twain Riverboat.
This anniversary special captures the creative spark of Walt Disney and the Imagineers during one of Disneyland’s pivotal growth periods.
For more Disney anniversaries.
- Disneyland. 10th. 25th. 30th. 35th. 40th. 50th. 50th-anniversary media event. 60th featuring Elton John.
- Walt Disney World. 10th. 15th. 20th. 25th Party, inside-out 25th, 25th Witching you Were here, Remembering the Magic 25th.
