Monday, February 02, 2009

1956 in Glorious Color: Autopia Action!



In 1956, The Autopia spawned a sequel: The Junior Autopia, in the a chunk of real estate near Storybook Land. As you can see by the undeveloped land around it, The Junior Autopia was extremely junior when this shot was taken. The Mickey Mouse Club Circus Tent is still standing, although at this point, The MMC has most likely “left the building.” Here are some cool detail shots showing vintage cars, the Richfield Eagle, and a few other treats.







And here’s the original; the one that started it all:



It’s funny now to imagine that there were 2 or more attractions involving driving a car on the road. Today, in Southern California, I can’t wait to get off the freeway away from all the traffic. However, back in the 1950’s, freeways were a glimpse of the future and represented progress and speed. See more Disneyland Autopia photos at my website.

4 comments:

Major Pepperidge said...

I think (but am not sure) that Professor Keller and his jungle killers were performing in the tent at that point.

The Viewliner Limited said...

Truly historic DL pics. Just awesome.

Anonymous said...

If your journey doesn't have a clear destination, there's no telling where you'll end up. A few freeways can be fun and exciting; too many freeways can be obnoxious and dangerous.

--hifor

Mr. Mouse Monthly said...

Love that last shot. It just shouts, "America on the Move!" More gardeners tending the berm in the background too.