Disneyland 61 Showcases New Monorail Route

Originally aired on May 28, 1961, Disneyland ’61 provided an opportunity for Walt to get his audience up to date on the latest at Disneyland. The program starts with Walt in the model shop, where he explains, “When we first lay plans for Disneyland, they take the form of blueprints, drawings, and models,” Walt gives us a look at the latest models, including an interesting Topiary Garden. He continues, “Since Disneyland first opened in 1955, we have seen many changes, and 1961 will be no exception.”

The monorail, which started services only two years prior in 1959, has already outgrown its original circuit; the new extension will take passengers from tomorrow to parallel a modern freeway giving them an idea of the practical application of the highway in the sky. The expanded monorail line will now cover two and a half miles, linking the park to the Disneyland Hotel. Walt takes us back to 1954 to see how it all started.

This special was originally followed by the True-life adventure, the Olympic Elk.

For more Disney Magic Check out: The Magic of Walt Disney World 1972, The Magic of Disneyland 1968, Walt Disney World 1991, The Magic of Christmas at Walt Disney World 1991  The Magic Kingdom Disney World 2004 or Disneyland 1961