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Ward Kimball: Disney Family Album – Animator, Musician & Innovator

The second episode of The Disney Family Album spotlighted Ward Kimball, one of Walt Disney’s legendary “Nine Old Men.” Originally airing on The Disney Channel in July 1984, this episode delved into Kimball’s multifaceted contributions to Disney and beyond.

Ward Kimball: A Multifaceted Talent

In 1934, Ward Kimball joined Walt Disney Studios as an animator. However, his talents went far beyond animation. Throughout his career, he embraced his passions for railroads and jazz music, making an impact in everything he touched.

Ward Kimball’s Iconic Disney Characters

Kimball focused on comedic, exaggerated animation rather than realistic human figures. His expressive animation style shaped several classic Disney characters, including:

  • Jiminy Cricket in Pinocchio (1940) – His design and mannerisms made him one of Disney’s most beloved sidekicks.
  • The Cheshire Cat in Alice in Wonderland (1951) – Kimball’s surreal animation gave the character a mischievous, otherworldly quality.
  • The Mad Hatter & Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum in Alice in Wonderland (1951) – He infused these eccentric characters with energetic, unpredictable movements.
  • Lucifer the Cat in Cinderella (1950) – His expressive work turned Lucifer into a hilariously wicked villain.

Kimball’s ability to animate larger-than-life, whimsical personalities set his work apart. As a result, Walt Disney frequently trusted him with characters that required a unique comedic approach.

Snow White, Fairest of the All 1983 Television Special Ward Kimble
Snow White, Fairest of the All 1983 Television Special Ward Kimble

Beyond Animation: Railroads & Jazz

In addition to animation, Ward Kimball had two lifelong passions: railroads and jazz music.

  • Railroads: His love for trains inspired him to build his own backyard railroad, known as the Grizzly Flats Railroad. Because of his enthusiasm, Walt Disney developed a fascination with trains, leading to the creation of the Disneyland Railroad.
  • Jazz Music: Kimball founded the Firehouse Five Plus Two, a Dixieland jazz band composed of Disney animators. The band gained popularity, recording several albums and performing across the country.
Shoot for the Moon: Space Mountain Paris (1995)
Shoot for the Moon: Space Mountain Paris (1995)

Contributions Beyond Retirement

Even after retiring in 1972, Kimball continued collaborating with Disney. He played a key role in designing EPCOT Center’s “World of Motion” attraction, which opened in 1982. His influence extended beyond animation, shaping theme park experiences as well.

Walt Disney once called Kimball “a genius,” a title he never used for anyone else. Kimball’s work left a lasting impact.

Learn More About Ward Kimball

➡️ Explore more about Ward Kimball on the D23 Disney Legends Page.
📺 Discover more Disney Family Album episodes on Sam’s Disney Diary.

Don’t miss any of the Disney Family Albums:  Clarence “Ducky” Nash, The Missing Episode, Sherman Brothers, Jim MacDonald, Milt Kahl, Ken Anderson, Disneyland Designers, Eric Larson, Peter and Harrison Ellenshaw, Wolfgang (Woolie) Reitherman, Frank Thomas, Voice Actors, WED Imagineers, Golden Horseshoe Revue, Ollie Johnston, Annette Funicello, Marc Davis, The Milotte’s and the Beebe’s, Fess Parker / Buddy Ebsen, The StoryMen

Disclosure

The Disney Family Album episodes are provided for historical reference only and are not monetized on any video platform. These videos amplify my love of Disney and Disney Parks, serving as educational resources to celebrate the creativity and legacy of Disney’s greatest storytellers. All rights to the original content remain with The Walt Disney Company. No copyright infringement is intended.

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