By Robert Vaux
Disneyland opened in 1955, and in the ensuing half-century has become a beloved American institution. There are a number of fun and interesting facts about the park which casual visitors may not be aware of.
Cast Members
Employees of Disneyland are referred to as "cast members" and are not allowed to date each other. Male employees may not wear beards.
Walt's Place
Walt Disney occupied an apartment above the Main Street Fire Department while Disneyland was being built. The light in the window remains on to this day as a memorial gesture.
Opening Day Troubles
July 17, 1955 was dubbed "Black Sunday" by Disney executives. Lines were long, drinking fountains wouldn't work and a gas leak shut down many of the rides.
Alcohol and Gum
No alcohol or gum is served at Disneyland, save in Studio 33 which is a private club with exclusive membership.
The Matterhorn
The Matterhorn roller coaster was the first of its kind to use tubular steel in its construction (it opened in 1959).
Pirates of the Caribbean
Jack Sparrow was not originally a part of the Pirates of the Caribbean. He was added in 2006--nearly thirty years after the ride opened and only after the movies had become an international success.
About the Author:
Robert Vaux has been a professional writer and editor since 1995. He has traveled throughout Europe and North America as well as parts of North Africa. Since 2000 he has been a professional movie critic at Flipside Movie Emporium, the Sci-Fi Movie Page and Mania.com. Vaux has a Master of Arts in English literature from Syracuse University.
