Long before the days of Disneyland, when Walt first began his career as an animator, he met a woman named Lillian Bounds. Walt and Lillian married in 1925, and together, the Disneys built an empire. While Walt was the creative force behind the animation studio, and later the theme park, Lillian was his unwavering support system. She occasionally made visits to Disneyland in its early years, especially with her daughters and grandchildren. Here are a few of my favorite photos of the Minnie to Walt’s Mickey, in the Happiest Place on Earth.
Lillian, Walt, and their daughter Diane take a spin on the tea cups, 1955. (Popsugar)
Walt and Lillian celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary, 1955. (Walt Disney Family Museum)
Lillian gives her petrified tree to the park, 1957. (Disney Parks Blog)
Taking a spin on the Plaza Gardens dance floor, 1958. (Disney Parks Blog)
Hanging out with the grandkids in the apartment above Main Street, 1962. (Disney Hirek)
Taking in the magic of Disneyland, undated. (WDW Park Hoppers)
I do not know if I had ever learned about the petrified tree until reading this. Also, I like this collection of pictures! It is neat to see the family enjoying the first Disney Park.