Profile of the Day: Walt Disney

Walt Disney giving the dedication day speech

Did you know Disneyland first opened its doors on July 17, 1955? It was 58 years ago today that Walt Disney opened the theme park in Anaheim, California. After visiting various amusement parks with his daughters, Disney was inspired to build a park for both children and adults to enjoy together. In his dedication speech on opening day, Disney stated:

“To all who come to this happy place; welcome. Disneyland is your land. Here age relives fond memories of the past …. and here youth may savor the challenge and promise of the future. Disneyland is dedicated to the ideals, the dreams and the hard facts that have created America … with the hope that it will be a source of joy and inspiration to all the world.”

Since its opening, Disneyland has attracted over 650 million guests from all over the world.

Have you been to Disneyland? Share your memories with us in the comments below and don’t forget to see if you’re related to the mastermind behind it all, Walt Disney!

View Walt Disney’s Geni Profile